NBR Falls Short by Tk6,577cr in Jul-Aug but Sees 21% Growth

The National Board of Revenue (NBR) missed its collection target for the first two months of fiscal year 2025–26, although it recorded notable year-on-year growth, official data shows.

During July and August, the NBR collected a total of Tk54,423 crore, falling short of the Tk61,000.26 crore target by Tk6,577.26 crore, according to provisional figures. In the same period last fiscal year, total revenue collection stood at Tk45,005.16 crore, indicating a 20.93% growth compared to FY25.

August alone saw revenue collection of Tk27,174 crore, up by Tk4,084.5 crore from the Tk23,089.37 crore recorded in August 2024, reflecting a growth rate of 17.69%.

The largest contribution in August came from domestic Value Added Tax (VAT), which generated Tk11,085 crore, up from Tk8,283.15 crore in the same month last year, marking a 33.83% increase. Income tax collection also showed strong performance, rising by Tk1,643 crore to Tk8,442 crore, achieving a 24.17% growth including travel tax.

Despite these gains, the Customs wing experienced a decline, reflecting slower export-import activity. Customs revenue reached Tk7,647 crore against a target of Tk10,061.35 crore, down from Tk8,007.49 crore in August 2024, representing a 4.5% decrease. Officials attributed part of this decline to adjustments in the iBAS++ system, which recorded a significant portion of Customs House revenue in September instead of August, temporarily affecting monthly growth rates.

Revenue experts noted that while the 20.93% year-on-year growth in July and August appears promising, it should not encourage complacency, particularly given the sluggish economic activity during the student-led unrest last year.

To sustain and accelerate revenue growth, NBR has intensified efforts to expand the tax net, improve compliance, and detect tax evasion more efficiently. Authorities also emphasized the importance of timely tax payments by citizens and businesses to support the nation’s economic development.

“NBR remains committed to working closely with taxpayers, ensuring transparency, and maintaining the momentum of revenue growth throughout the fiscal year,” an official said.

With these measures, the government aims to balance short-term shortfalls while strengthening the country’s long-term fiscal health.