Bangladesh’s IT sector has grown significantly in recent years. Consequently, more and more people are getting access to digital technologies and using smartphones in their everyday life. There are both good and bad consequences of this. One bad consequence, in my view, is having to be showered with repeated and often unwanted advertisements and promotional news popping up on Facebook, Instagram, Youtube, Twitter and other digital platforms—which are sponsored by various companies.  

People are using these platforms and getting innovative ideas but it’s important for our economy that the government, in consultation with the National Board of Revenue, imposes tax on the tech giants profiting from providing these platforms and services. For example, France has already imposed tax on these services. Some other European countries are also considering similar options to impose tax on them. Bangladesh should follow suit.

Mohammad Yaqub Ali Khandhakar

International Islamic University Chittagong