Bangladesh Media Reform Commission Proposes Sweeping Tax Changes for Newspaper Industry

The Media Reform Commission in Bangladesh has proposed significant tax reforms for the newspaper industry, including the abolishment of all types of advance taxes and a 27.5% corporate tax. This proposal is part of a broader set of recommendations aimed at ensuring journalists' safety, fair wages, and media independence. The commission's report, submitted to Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus, suggests that the current tax structure could lead to the closure of many established newspapers within the next few years. The commission also recommended reforming the process of announcing newspaper circulation, suggesting the number of copies sold should replace circulation in the criteria for enlistment on the media list. Additionally, it called for an increase in the rate of government advertisements for newspapers, which has not been raised for a decade, and suggested customs duties on newsprint imports should be reconsidered. Kamal Ahmed, chief of the commission, expressed hope that the interim and future elected governments will implement these recommendations to uphold media freedom and transparency.