The Foreign Investors Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) Bangladesh, the apex chamber representing Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the country, expresses deep concern over the recent decision to increase VAT/Supplementary Duty (SD) on a range of products without prior consultation with key stakeholders.
FICCI represents 90% of Bangladesh total FDI, covering high-revenue sectors such as tobacco, telecom, energy, and financial institutions, which collectively contribute approximately 30% of the total internal revenue. The recent decision to hike VAT, SD, and other taxes is likely to impact consumers while significantly raising the cost of doing business in the country. This measure threatens the financial stability and operational capacity of businesses that generate crucial tax revenue and drive economic growth.
FICCI identifies major concerns for businesses due to the increase in VAT rates to 15% under non-recoverable conditions for: Procurement Provider (7.5% to 15% with 100% input VAT non-recoverable), Repairs & maintenance (10% to 15% with 100% input VAT non-recoverable), Transport contractor (10% to 15% with 20% input VAT non-recoverable), Restaurant (5% to 15% with 100% input VAT non-recoverable).
The Department of National Savings (DNS) has temporarily suspended the sale of savings certificates due to an ongoing server upgrade, leaving customers frustrated by a lack of prior notice about the disruption.
DNS officials announced that the server upgrade is essential and assured that normal services would resume by noon today. However, as of the afternoon, many customers were still unable to access services.
The unexpected suspension has caused significant inconvenience to savings certificate customers, including both men and women, many of whom expressed their annoyance at the lack of timely communication.
Rokomari.com, the pioneer of online book sales, has launched the country first Online Trade Fair. Now, customers can enjoy fair offers, the best products, and attractive deals from the comfort of their homes. The fair will run until January 31, according to a press release from Rokomari.com on Saturday.
The press release stated that up to 75 percent discounts will be available on more than one lakh domestic and foreign products at the country first online trade fair. The online event will feature over one hundred bundle deals, buy one, get one free offers, and free shipping on certain products. The company highlighted unique attractions across several categories, including electronics, household products, fashion, and books. Additionally, there are surprises such as special gift voucher offers worth 500 taka and daily flash sales for customers participating in product reviews.
In this regard, Khairul Anam Roni, Managing Director and CEO of Rokomari.com, said, "We are always striving to take innovative initiatives to open new avenues for the e-commerce business in the country. By organizing this online trade fair for the first time, we have created an affordable and modern shopping opportunity for customers."
He stated, "Our fair features more than six hundred brands, which may not even be present at international trade fairs. As such, we are organizing the largest trade fair in the country. Rokomari will be a part of history. Our goal is to ensure access to authentic products in the shopping habits of the people of the country, and we are working to achieve that."
Heading out for a busy day, forgetting a charging cable, and still being able to charge a smartphone can be a blessing for anyone. Infinix is delivering that kind of freedom by bundling its innovative MagPower wireless charger for free with the Note 40S smartphone.
Previously available only with the Note 40 Pro, MagPower is now included with the Note 40S—at no extra cost. This upgrade offers a smarter, hassle-free way for users to stay connected, productive, and ready for whatever life throws their way.
Designed for modern lifestyles, this cutting-edge device not only boasts powerful features but also comes with a special gift—an effortless wireless charging solution, redefining convenience for users around the world. This thoughtful addition highlights the brand commitment to empowering users with solutions that make life easier, more efficient, and undeniably stylish. This device is not just a smartphone; it is a lifestyle upgrade.