GM Quader calls new VAT imposition a cruel decision

Jatiyo Party Chairman GM Quader today (12 January) expressed his discontent with the interim government's decision to impose Value Added Tax (VAT) and supplementary duties on more than 100 products and services, describing it as a cruel move.

"The fresh imposition of VAT will be a harsh decision by the government," he said in a media statement.

He urged the government to back off from such an anti-people decision as the economic situation of the country's people is currently dire. People are struggling to meet their expenses with their income, he added.

Moreover, Quader said the number of unemployed people is increasing in every household. "Many people are unable to afford necessary medical treatment due to a lack of money. Business owners are also facing difficulties."

The Jatiyo Party chairman also said people's lives have become increasingly challenging due to high inflation, soaring dollar rates, and excessive interest rates in the banking sector.

Under the circumstances, the government's decision to raise VAT on over 100 products and services will make life unbearable for the common people, he said.

Quader suggested that the government reduce unnecessary and excessive expenditures instead of increasing taxes, and urged it to make decisions in the best interests of the people.

Last Thursday, the government increased VAT and supplementary duties on over 100 goods and services, including mobile phone talk time, internet usage, cigarettes, alcoholic drinks, biscuits, tissue paper, imported fruits, restaurant bills, sauces, spectacles, clothes, air tickets, liquefied petroleum gas, milk, showrooms, confectionary items, and electric poles.

Two ordinances — the Value Added Tax and Supplementary Duty (Amendment) Ordinance 2025 and the Excise and Salt (Amendment) Ordinance 2025 — were promulgated in this regard.