Commercial Import Process in Bangladesh — Step-by-Step Guide

 Commercial Import Process in Bangladesh: Step-by-Step Guide for Businesses

Bangladesh is an emerging trading hub in South Asia, and importing goods for commercial use is essential for businesses in industries like retail, electronics, garments, machinery, and raw materials. The government has streamlined the commercial import process to ensure transparency and efficiency. Here’s everything you need to know to import goods commercially into Bangladesh.

 1. Obtain Import Registration Certificate (IRC)

Before starting any import operation, you must register with the Office of the Chief Controller of Imports and Exports (CCI&E).

• Issued to commercial and industrial importers.
• Valid for 5 years; renewable.
• Required documents:
  • Trade License
  • TIN Certificate
  • Bank Solvency Certificate
  • Partnership Deed or Certificate of Incorporation
  • Memorandum & Articles of Association

 Legal Reference: Import Policy Order & Import Control Act

 2. HS Code Identification and Product Eligibility

Each product must be classified under a specific Harmonized System (HS) Code.

• Check if the item is banned or restricted for import.
• Identify duty, tax rate, and regulatory authority (if applicable).
• Visit NBR’s HS Code Directory for confirmation.

 3. Opening a Letter of Credit (L/C)

L/C is the most common payment method for imports.

• Opened through an Authorized Dealer (AD) commercial bank.
• You’ll need:
  • Proforma Invoice from the exporter
  • IRC, TIN, BIN
  • Valid trade license
  • Insurance certificate
  • LCA form (Letter of Credit Authorization)

 Other acceptable methods: Advance TT (Telegraphic Transfer), DA (Documents Against Acceptance)

 4. Customs Pre-Clearance (Bill of Entry Submission)

Before goods arrive at the port, the importer must submit a Bill of Entry through the ASYCUDA World Customs system under NBR.

• Submit electronically via ASYCUDA Portal
• Upload scanned copies of:
  • L/C
  • Invoice
  • Packing list
  • Certificate of origin
  • Transport documents (BL, AWB)
  • Insurance
  • Import permit (if applicable)

 5. Physical Inspection & Duty Assessment

After goods arrive:

• Customs physically inspects the shipment.
• Duty, VAT, AIT, Advance Tax are calculated based on CIF value (Cost, Insurance & Freight).
• Duties depend on product HS code classification.

 You may also use a Clearing & Forwarding (C&F) Agent to handle this stage.

 6. Payment of Duties and VAT

• Importer must pay all assessed charges through bank/e-payment.
• Applicable Taxes & Charges:
  • Customs Duty (CD): 0%–25%
  • Supplementary Duty (SD): 0%–100%
  • Value Added Tax (VAT): 15%
  • Advance Tax (AT): 5%
  • Regulatory Duty (RD): 3%–35%

 7. Customs Clearance & Delivery

Once all payments are made and documentation verified:

• Customs issues a Release Order (RO) or Delivery Order (DO)
• Goods are released from the port and transported to the importer’s warehouse.

 Ensure all post-import compliance is completed, including BIN (Business Identification Number) record, inventory update, and VAT compliance.

 Conclusion: Simplifying Trade through Digital Systems

Bangladesh has made substantial progress in digitizing its import process. With tools like the ASYCUDA World System, e-payment, and clear trade portals, importers can enjoy greater efficiency and faster clearance.

Staying compliant with regulatory procedures ensures uninterrupted operations and reduces the risk of delays or penalties.