Online Desk: State Minister for ICT Zunaid Ahmed Palak today urged all to stand against the rumor of imposing 10 percent tax on freelancers, saying that a vested quarter is out to hinder the massive development and progress of the tax-free freelancing sector by spreading misinformation. “In line with the statements of Bangladesh Bank and National Board of Revenue over rumors and misinformation being spread about imposing of 10 percent tax on freelancing sector, the ICT Division has taken various measures, including issuing press releases, so that the freelancers not get confused with the rumors,” an official handout quoted Palak as he said.

It has been widely circulated through various print, electronic, online and social media that the freelancing sector will remain as a tax-free one, he said, urging the authorities concerned to take necessary steps to prevent rumors, including speaking out against various quarters, who are spreading rumors, aimed at hindering the comprehensive development and progress of the government. Noting that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has highlighted the importance of freelancing several times and directed to take different programmes, including issuing ID cards, to encourage the youth in this profession, the ICT state minister said the sector has been kept tax-free to make the youth more interested in the freelancing sector.

Apart from this, under the ICT Division, training is being imparted to enhance the skills of IT freelancing, allotting space and giving grants to build them as entrepreneurs and equity investment is also being given from Startup Bangladesh Limited Company.