Bahrain tax law amending for Proposal seeks to exempt low-income citizens from taxes

A pressing initiative advocating for the exemption of taxes for low-income Bahraini citizens has been introduced today. Led by Mohammed Al Marafi and supported by five MPs, the proposal aims to define low-income Bahrainis as individuals earning less than BD600 per month. Parliament Speaker Ahmed Al Musallam has directed the proposal to the financial and economic affairs committee for thorough evaluation and consideration.

The MPs, as detailed in their written statement accompanying the proposal, underscored its alignment with the Government Action Plan 2023-2026. This plan prioritizes elevating the living standards of nationals while safeguarding their entitlement to a dignified livelihood.

They highlighted that a considerable number of Bahrainis, particularly those with lower incomes, struggle to make ends meet due to the burden of existing taxation.

Presently, Bahrain enforces a 10 percent VAT on consumer goods, with 94 exceptions, and imposes an additional 100 percent excise duty on cigarettes, tobacco products, and energy drinks, alongside a 50 percent duty on soft drinks.