The government aims to bring undeclared money into the mainstream banking system by offering the opportunity to whiten black money through a 15% tax, Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader said on Saturday.
"Bringing money into the mainstream with a 15% tax will increase the capital of banks. This opportunity does not provide immunity for illegal activities. It's possible under existing law. Often, due to various reasons including tax return preparation, not all assets are disclosed in tax returns. This opportunity is to bring that money into the mainstream," he said at a press conference held at the Awami League's central office on 23 Bangabandhu Avenue, Gulistan.
Quader, who also serves as the minister of road transport and bridges minister, said the opinions of CPD, TIB, and Shujan are of no concern to them, asserting that these organisations are aligning their rhetoric with the BNP.
He compared the current state of the country to 15 years ago, highlighting significant developmental achievements.
"The current budget is slightly higher than the previous one. BNP talks about big issues like money laundering, black money, and devouring the country. Their last budget was Tk68,000 crore, yet before the budget, Saifur Rahman had to run to consortium meetings. None of our finance ministers have run abroad with a begging bowl. This shows the progress of the country," he said.
Quader also mentioned that the inflation rate has been fixed at 6.75% due to alignment with monetary policy.
He expressed confidence that this target will be achieved under the strong leadership of Sheikh Hasina.
