The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has published the Authentic English Text of the Income Tax Act 2023 through a government gazette issued on 16 October, 2025.
The Act, originally enacted in Bangla and replacing the Income Tax Ordinance 1984, had prompted repeated calls from foreign investors and stakeholders for an official English version to ensure consistent interpretation in cross-border tax matters.
In the absence of an authorised English text, many overseas investors faced challenges in understanding and applying the law, leading to confusion and procedural complications.
The NBR said the release of the Authentic English Text would improve transparency, eliminate ambiguity in enforcement and boost investor confidence by giving both local and foreign taxpayers a clear and accurate reference.
The revenue authority also noted that the English versions of the Customs Act 2023 and the Value Added Tax and Supplementary Duty Act 2012 are nearing publication, a move expected to address the long-standing demand from investors for accessible English texts of major tax regulations.
