Trade License Process and Cost in Bangladesh
A trade license is a mandatory legal document for conducting business in Bangladesh. It certifies that a business is permitted to operate within a specific jurisdiction under the rules of the relevant City Corporation or Municipality. Obtaining a trade license is the first step toward formalizing a business entity.
Governing Authority
- Dhaka City Corporations (DNCC and DSCC) for businesses within Dhaka
- Municipalities (Pourashavas) for other urban areas
- Union Parishads for rural businesses
Types of Trade Licenses
- Commercial Trade License – for general business operations (e.g., retail, trading, services)
- Industrial Trade License – for manufacturing or factory-based businesses
- Food-related Trade License – for hotels, restaurants, and food processing businesses (requires additional health clearance)
Documents Required
- Application form (prescribed by the local authority)
- National ID card of the applicant
- Recent passport-sized photographs
- Copy of TIN certificate
- Passport copy (if the applicant is a foreign national)
- Rental agreement or ownership deed of business premises
- Photograph of the business signboard
- Bank solvency certificate (in some cases)
- Fire safety clearance (for factories or hazardous operations)
- Additional permissions for specialized businesses (e.g., BSTI, Fire Service, DoE)
Application Process
Step 1: Determine Jurisdiction
Identify the relevant City Corporation, Municipality, or Union Parishad where the business premises are located.
Step 2: Collect Application Form
Obtain and fill out the prescribed trade license application form from the local office or their official website (some corporations offer online applications).
Step 3: Submit Required Documents
Submit the completed form along with the required documents to the relevant licensing authority.
Step 4: Verification and Inspection
The local authority may conduct a physical inspection of the business premises.
Step 5: Payment of Fees
Pay the applicable government fees, stamp duties, and service charges.
Step 6: Issuance of License
Upon approval, the trade license is issued. The process typically takes 3–7 working days.
Cost of Trade License in Bangladesh
The cost varies depending on the nature and category of business, as determined by the local authority’s schedule of fees.
Typical Fee Range (for Dhaka City Corporation):
| Business Type | Annual Fee (BDT) |
|---|---|
| Small retail shop | 1,000 – 3,000 |
| Medium-sized enterprise | 3,000 – 10,000 |
| Large commercial entity | 10,000 – 25,000+ |
| Factory/Industry | 5,000 – 50,000+ |
| Restaurant/Food outlet | 5,000 – 20,000 |
Additional costs may include:
- Stamp duty: BDT 150–300
- Service charge: Varies by authority
- Renewal fee: Usually the same as the original fee, due annually
Validity and Renewal
- A trade license is valid for one fiscal year (July to June).
- Must be renewed annually before 30th June.
- Failure to renew may result in fines or cancellation.
Online Trade License in Dhaka
Both DNCC and DSCC have introduced online systems for application and renewal:
- DNCC: https://eblis.dncc.gov.bd
- DSCC: https://eblis.dscc.gov.bd
Applicants must create an account, submit digital documents, and pay fees through integrated mobile or bank payment gateways.
0 Comments