FE REPORT
The Association of Mobile Telecom Operators of Bangladesh (AMTOB) has expressed concern over recent media reports suggesting that mobile network operators owe substantial amounts to the government, arguing that such claims fail to reflect the complex legal and regulatory disputes underlying many of the contested amounts.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the industry body said a significant portion of the disputed claims stems from unresolved value-added tax (VAT) issues and differing interpretations of regulatory provisions.
According to AMTOB, mobile operators have long faced difficulties obtaining Mushok Challans from the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) despite making payments to the regulator. As a result, operators have been unable to claim legitimate VAT rebates and input tax credits as provided under the law.
The association also raised concerns over efforts to impose VAT on revenue-sharing arrangements, arguing that such measures could amount to double taxation because VAT has already been applied within the value chain.
"These are complex issues of tax interpretation that warrant judicial determination," AMTOB said, adding that misinterpretations of licence conditions during audit processes have also significantly increased the amounts under dispute.
The telecom operators' body stressed that seeking judicial intervention should not be viewed as an attempt to evade obligations. Rather, it said, court proceedings are a legitimate means of obtaining legal clarity and resolving disputes in accordance with the law.
AMTOB called for regulatory and taxation disputes to be resolved through constructive engagement, transparent processes and adherence to the rule of law.
"Operators remain committed to complying with all lawful obligations and working with policymakers, regulators and tax authorities to resolve outstanding issues," the statement said.
The association also emphasised that the legal rights and remedies available to investors must be respected while disputes remain under consideration.
AMTOB said a fair, balanced and predictable regulatory environment is essential for the sustainable growth of the telecommunications sector and for maintaining Bangladesh's attractiveness to foreign investment.
The body urged stakeholders to pursue evidence-based dialogue and ensure legal certainty, rather than relying on what it described as simplistic narratives that overlook the complexities of the disputes.
The association further noted that the telecommunications sector remains one of the country's largest contributors to government revenue while investing billions of dollars in network infrastructure, digital connectivity and technological advancement.
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