Export and Import License in Bangladesh: Process, Requirements, and Legal Framework

Export and Import License in Bangladesh: Process, Requirements, and Legal Framework

Businesses engaged in international trade in Bangladesh must obtain appropriate licenses to lawfully import or export goods. These licenses are issued under the country’s foreign trade policies and are governed by the Import Policy Order and Export Policy Order issued by the Ministry of Commerce. This article outlines the steps, legal requirements, and relevant authorities for obtaining an export or import license in Bangladesh.

Legal Framework

The key legal instruments governing import and export licenses in Bangladesh are:

• Import Policy Order (current: 2021–2024)
• Export Policy Order (current: 2021–2024)
• Import and Export (Control) Act, 1950
• Foreign Exchange Regulation Act, 1947
• Customs Act, 1969
• Bangladesh Bank guidelines on trade transactions

The licensing authority is the Office of the Chief Controller of Imports and Exports (CCI&E) under the Ministry of Commerce.

Who Needs an Export/Import License?

Any individual or company intending to import or export goods commercially must obtain a valid license from the CCI&E. The license is officially referred to as an Import Registration Certificate (IRC) or Export Registration Certificate (ERC).

Exemptions: Individuals importing goods for personal use or non-commercial purposes in limited quantity may not require a license.

Types of Licenses

Type	Description
Import Registration Certificate (IRC)	Required for commercial importers of goods into Bangladesh
Export Registration Certificate (ERC)	Required for businesses exporting goods from Bangladesh

Eligibility Requirements

To apply for an IRC or ERC, the applicant must:

• Be a Bangladeshi citizen or registered business entity
• Have a valid Trade License
• Be registered with the Tax Authorities (TIN and BIN)
• Be enrolled with the Chamber of Commerce or Trade Association
• Have a business bank account and security clearance (as required)

Required Documents for IRC/ERC

1. Application Form (duly filled)
2. Trade License
3. TIN Certificate
4. VAT/BIN Registration Certificate
5. Bank Solvency Certificate
6. Membership Certificate from relevant Chamber or Association
7. National ID / Passport (for proprietors/partners/directors)
8. Partnership Deed / MOA & AOA (if applicable)
9. Company Registration Certificate (RJSC) (for companies)
10. Treasury Challan (evidence of license fee payment)
11. Photographs of proprietor/partners/directors

Application Process

Step 1: Prepare Documents

Collect all required documents, including bank certificates, tax records, and trade licenses.

Step 2: Pay Government Fees

Deposit the prescribed license fee and renewal fee through a Treasury Challan at Bangladesh Bank or any authorized branch of Sonali Bank.

Certificate	Government Fee	Renewal Fee
IRC	BDT 5,000–10,000 (varies by category)	BDT 5,000
ERC	BDT 5,000	BDT 5,000

Step 3: Submit Application to CCI&E

Submit the application form and supporting documents to the respective regional office of the Chief Controller of Imports and Exports.

Step 4: Scrutiny and Issuance

Upon verification, the CCI&E office issues the Import or Export Registration Certificate, usually within 7–15 working days.

Validity and Renewal

• Both IRC and ERC are valid for 1 year
• Must be renewed annually by submitting:
  • Updated trade license
  • Updated bank solvency certificate
  • Payment of renewal fee

Failure to renew may lead to suspension of the registration.

Additional Considerations

Exporters:

• Must comply with Export Policy Order restrictions and HS codes
• May be eligible for export incentives, duty drawbacks, and cash assistance under government schemes

Importers:

• Must ensure goods are not restricted or banned under the Import Policy Order
• May require special permission or clearance (e.g., BSTI, Drug Administration, BTRC) for certain products

Role of Bangladesh Bank

All remittances and payments related to international trade must comply with the Foreign Exchange Regulation Act, 1947 and Bangladesh Bank circulars. Importers and exporters are required to:

• Use authorized dealer banks
• Report transactions via Letter of Credit (LC) or TT (Telegraphic Transfer)
• Comply with customs declaration requirements

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Operating without a valid IRC or ERC may result in:

• Confiscation of goods
• Customs clearance refusal
• Fines and penalties
• Legal action under the Import and Export (Control) Act, 1950

Summary Table

Aspect	Import License (IRC)	Export License (ERC)
Issuing Authority	CCI&E	CCI&E
Validity	1 year (renewable)	1 year (renewable)
Govt Fee	BDT 5,000–10,000	BDT 5,000
Renewal Requirement	Yes (annually)	Yes (annually)
Essential for	All commercial imports	All commercial exports
Foreign Exchange Control	Must comply with BB and FERA	Must comply with BB and FERA

Businesses intending to engage in cross-border trade in Bangladesh must comply with licensing and regulatory requirements to ensure smooth operation and access to financial and customs channels. Legal guidance is recommended when applying for IRC/ERC or dealing with regulatory hurdles.