On Monday, March 4, 2024, a seminar titled "VAT Mechanism in Bangladesh" held at the American International University-Bangladesh (AIUB). It was a pivotal event that shed light on the intricacies of the Value - Added Tax system within the country's economic framework. Esteemed speaker, Mr. Imtiaj Imran Rahman, who is a seasoned Chartered Accountant with 12 years of working experience with KPMG, has worked extensively with numerous multinational organizations in audit, tax, secretarial, and advisory matters, converged to dissect the challenges and opportunities inherent in VAT implementation. Currently, he is working as Associate Director of Tax & Advisory Services at KPMG Bangladesh and looks after the business setup, direct and indirect tax compliances, reporting, secretarial, and regulatory matters. He is also a Fellow Member (FCA) of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Bangladesh. He completed his BBA degree from the University of Dhaka, majoring in Accounting and Information Systems.
Through in-depth analyses and real-world case studies, participants delved into the practical implications of VAT policies on businesses, consumers, and the overall economy. Key topics explored included tax compliance, enforcement mechanisms, and the role of technology in streamlining VAT processes. The seminar not only fostered a deeper understanding of the VAT mechanism but also sparked meaningful dialogue on ways to enhance its effectiveness in driving sustainable economic growth and fiscal stability in Bangladesh. Attendees also gained a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with VAT implementation, exploring topics ranging from tax compliance to revenue collection strategies. Through informative presentations and engaging discussions, participants explored avenues for improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the VAT mechanism to foster economic growth and development in Bangladesh. The seminar served as a platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration, empowering stakeholders to navigate the complexities of VAT administration in the country. This seminar promotes how accurate practice of VAT in our daily lives can contribute to achieving goal no. 8 of the SDG (Decent Work and Economic Growth) that ensures the economic sustainability of Bangladesh.
Sazia Afrin, an assistant professor in the accounting department at the Faculty of Business Administration at AIUB, was in charge of organizing this event. The Head of the Department of Accounting, Dr. Kamrul Hasan, oversaw and directed the program overall. The Department of Accounting humbly appreciates the openhanded support extended by the Associate Dean (FBA) and Professor Dr. Farheen Hassan, Director (MBA program) Dr. Mohammad Faridul Alam, Director (BBA program) Dr. Rezbin Nahar, and the AIUB management for successfully conducting the seminar.