MPs have been deprived of their duty-free car privileges

In a major step to rein in public expenditure and narrow the divide between political elites and ordinary citizens, Parliament on Sunday approved a bill ending the long-standing privilege that allowed lawmakers to import luxury vehicles without paying duties.

The amendment to the Members of Parliament (Remuneration and Allowances) Order, 1973, was passed without debate during a session presided over by Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad.

The bill now awaits presidential assent to become law, marking the end of a system that has led to billions of taka in lost revenue through tax exemptions.

Once implemented, MPs will be subject to the same import tax regulations as the general public.

Law Minister Asaduzzaman tabled the bill, which was adopted by a majority voice vote.

The move follows years of controversy over the scheme. Internal figures show that between 2009 and 2023, lawmakers imported 576 vehicles duty-free.

Although the total import value of these vehicles was about Tk428 crore, the resulting loss in customs revenue exceeded Tk3,500 crore.

Apart from the financial impact, the scheme was often criticised for misuse. Sources suggest that many former MPs took advantage of the facility for personal gain, frequently selling imported high-end vehicles soon after purchase—contrary to the policy’s intent.

The decision is in line with a broader policy direction under the current administration. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman had earlier urged BNP lawmakers to отказаться the privilege upon taking oath in February, while the Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami-led 11-party alliance made similar commitments ahead of the national polls.

Under the now-repealed Section (3C), MPs were entitled to import a car, jeep, or microbus every five years without paying duties, development surcharges, or permit fees.

The reform has drawn praise from civil society, with Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) calling it a “significant step” toward enhancing transparency and accountability in governance.

Although the duty-free benefit is being scrapped, the government is considering an alternative proposal. The suggestion—put forward by an opposition lawmaker—would see the state provide official vehicles to MPs, similar to those allocated to district and upazila chairmen and senior government officials. Ministers say the proposal remains under review.