Photo : ICSB

DHAKA, July 15, 2026 (BSS) - The Institute of Chartered Secretaries of Bangladesh (ICSB) has organised a Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programme on the Finance Act 2026 to familiarise its members with the latest changes in taxation, VAT, customs and corporate compliance.

The virtual programme, held on Tuesday via Zoom, was chaired by ICSB Past President and Professional Development Committee Chairman Mohammad Sanaullah FCS, said a press release.

ICSB President Hossain Sadat FCS also attended the event.

The keynote paper was presented by Sorwar Alam FCS, Head of Accounts and Taxation of ismartu Technology BD Limited.

He outlined major amendments introduced through the Finance Act 2026, including changes to income tax, value-added tax (VAT), tax compliance, fiscal incentives and other regulatory provisions, highlighting their practical implications for businesses and professionals.

Speaking at the programme, Hossain Sadat stressed the importance of continuing professional development in keeping pace with the rapidly evolving taxation and regulatory environment. 

He urged professionals to stay updated on legislative and fiscal changes to ensure effective compliance and informed decision-making.

Company Secretary of Berger Paints Bangladesh Limited Khandker Abu Jafar Sadique FCS discussed key taxation-related provisions of the Finance Act, emphasising the benefits of promoting cashless transactions to avail tax rebates and welcoming the government's initiatives to encourage digital financial transactions.

Md. Shahedul Amin FCS, Assistant General Manager (Accounts, VAT and Tax) of T. K. Group of Industries, highlighted important amendments relating to VAT and customs, including changes to labour and service definitions, VAT enlistment procedures, exemptions, the VAT Honour Card, foreign contracts, Free Trade Zones and customs agent licensing.

Chairman of the ICSB Taxation and Fiscal Laws Sub-Committee Md. Shafiqul Alam FCS reviewed changes to personal income tax, tax rebates, quarterly returns and monthly tax payments. 

He said ICSB would continue organising regular pre-budget and post-budget discussions to enhance members' professional knowledge.

In his concluding remarks, Mohammad Sanaullah discussed issues including corporate taxation, mandatory dividends, Business Identification Number (BIN), tobacco taxation, investment rebates and the growing emphasis on banking channel-based payments. 

He said the Finance Act 2026 focuses on accelerating economic growth, simplifying the tax system, promoting digital tax payments, encouraging investment and innovation and strengthening tax compliance.

ICSB Secretary and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Md. Shabbirul Alam Chowdhury also attended the programme.

It ended with a vote of thanks by Mohammad Emarot Hossain FCS, Co-Chairman of the Professional Development Committee, followed by an interactive question-and-answer session moderated by Israt Jahan Rimi FCS.