Dhaka, July 13 (V7N) – Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Advisor Muhammad Fauzul Kabir Khan has announced that the National Board of Revenue (NBR) will soon be divided into two separate departments, with a new name replacing the existing title due to its “negative perception.”

Speaking at a press briefing of the Advisory Committee on Trade, Industry, Ports and Revenue Collection held at the Secretariat on Sunday morning, the advisor addressed ongoing tensions between the BCS administration cadre and revenue officials, stating that while earlier there had been disagreement, there is now no objection from any side regarding the division of the NBR.

Key Takeaways from the Briefing:

  • Structural Reform and New Policy

    “There are errors in the NBR Ordinance,” said Kabir Khan, adding that the ordinance lacks clarity on eligibility and qualifications for key revenue posts. A new policy will soon define the appointment criteria for secretaries and senior officials, and a balance will be established between tax officials and the BCS administration cadre.

  • Change in NBR’s Name

    “The name NBR will no longer exist. People smile when they hear it — and everyone knows why,” the advisor remarked, hinting at the agency’s tarnished image. He added that the Anti-Corruption Commission's (ACC) actions against some NBR officials were not politically motivated but based on independent investigations.

  • Strike by NBR Officials

    Reacting strongly to recent work stoppages by revenue officials, Kabir Khan stated:
    “The NBR cannot hold the port or the economy hostage whenever it wants. Government functions and trade must continue uninterrupted.”

  • Criticism of World Bank Report

    The advisor dismissed the World Bank’s recent report describing a slowing economy, calling the data “outdated by six months.”
    “Inflation and the value of the dollar have now decreased. The economy is picking up again,” he said.

The press conference comes at a time of heightened concern over the country’s fiscal management, internal disputes in revenue collection, and mounting public dissatisfaction with institutional inefficiencies.

The proposed NBR restructuring and renaming are expected to be finalized in the coming months.

END/RH/AJ