Federal Tax Ombudsman, Bangladesh Revenue Body Expand Collaboration

Pakistan’s Federal Tax Ombudsman and Bangladesh’s National Board of Revenue have agreed to work together on tax dispute resolution and taxpayer facilitation, a move aimed at creating a more business-friendly tax environment and strengthening trade and investment ties between the two countries.

The understanding was reached during a meeting in Islamabad between a delegation of the National Board of Revenue of Bangladesh, led by Md. Lutful Azeem, and Federal Tax Ombudsman Zafar-ul-Haq Hijazi. The discussions focused on improving institutional coordination, resolving taxpayer grievances efficiently, and promoting transparency in tax administration.

Speaking during the meeting, Zafar-ul-Haq Hijazi welcomed the delegation and highlighted the importance of sustained cooperation to enhance accountability and trust in tax systems. He stressed that effective grievance redressal mechanisms are essential for encouraging voluntary compliance and investor confidence.

Advisor Customs Dr. Arslan Subuctageen briefed the delegation on the Federal Tax Ombudsman’s operational framework, emphasizing transparency, efficiency, and taxpayer-friendly reforms. Both sides explored future collaboration areas, including sharing best practices and developing joint approaches to dispute resolution.

The initiative reflects a broader effort by both countries to modernize tax systems, reduce friction for businesses, and support economic activity through fair and predictable taxation.