NBR chief stresses stronger revenue collection, faster automation

National Board of Revenue (NBR) Chairman Md Abdur Rahman Khan on Tuesday stressed the need for boosting revenue collection and improving activities related to risk-based cargo release, enforcement, compliance with import policy orders, automation, case reduction and recovery of arrears.

He made the directive while visiting the Customs House at the Inland Container Depot (ICD) in Kamalapur.

During the visit, he inspected key customs operations, including physical examinations at the container yard, export procedures, and the automated customs assessment process in the assessment room, according to an NBR press release.

While interacting with officials and staff from various valuation groups, he enquired about any operational challenges and instructed the customs IT wing to promptly resolve ongoing internet and server issues to ensure smooth workflow.

Following the inspection, the NBR chairman held a meeting with Customs House officials and stakeholders.

He was also briefed on the shortage of cargo trains, which continues to disrupt smooth container transportation, as he mentioned the necessity of modernising and updating the C&F licensing rules to reflect current realities.

Later, the NBR chairman formally inaugurated the online tax payment system through A-Challan at the Customs House ICD.

The initiative follows a successful pilot launched on April 23, 2025, integrating the A-Challan platform with the ASYCUDA World customs system.

This integration allows importers and exporters to pay customs duties and taxes directly from their bank accounts to the government treasury. In June alone, 83 percent of customs revenue at the ICD was collected through A-Challan.

Describing customs houses as vital trade facilitation centers, the NBR chairman instructed officials to ensure faster cargo clearance under modern risk management frameworks to support business activities.

He assured that officials who perform their duties with honesty, competence, and diligence would receive full support and protection.

Expressing satisfaction with the overall operations at the Kamalapur ICD, he urged all stakeholders—including importers, exporters, C&F agents, port authorities, Bangladesh Railway, and customs officials—to work in coordination to ensure uninterrupted and efficient port operations.