Step-by-Step Process for Exporting to Bangladesh

Step 1: Obtain Importer-Exporter Code (IEC)

IEC is mandatory for all export activities.

Documents required:

PAN
Business registration
Address proof
Bank certificate/cancelled cheque

Apply through the DGFT portal.

Step 2: Understand Bangladesh Import Policies

Bangladesh follows its own import rules under the Bangladesh Import Policy Order issued by the Ministry of Commerce.

Common regulated products include:

Pharmaceuticals
Food & agriculture products
Chemicals & dyes
Machinery
Electronics

Check specific requirements such as:

Pre-shipment inspection (PSI)
Halal certification for food/processed goods
Labeling norms

Step 3: Identify the Correct HS Code & Customs Duty Structure

Determine the accurate HS code to check:

Import duty
Supplementary duty
VAT
Regulatory duty

Bangladesh applies multiple layers of tax depending on product type.

Step 4: Prepare Export Documentation

Prepare complete and accurate export documents.

Mandatory documents:

Commercial Invoice
Packing List
Shipping Bill (via ICEGATE)
Bill of Lading / Airway Bill
Certificate of Origin
Insurance Certificate

Additional documents (if required):

Phytosanitary certificate (agriculture)
Pre-shipment inspection certificate
Halal certificate (food/meat items)
Test reports (machinery, electronics)

Step 5: Packaging & Labeling Requirements

Packaging must be sturdy for land, sea, or river transport.

General labeling includes:

Product name
Manufacturer details
Batch number
Production/expiry date (if applicable)
Country of origin (Made in India)

For food items:

Ingredient list
Allergen information
Halal marking (if applicable)

Labels must be in English or Bengali, depending on buyer requirement.

Step 6: Choose Transport Mode (Land, Sea, or Air)

Land Route:

Most common due to border connectivity.
Key border points:

Petrapole–Benapole
Agartala–Akhaura
Dawki–Tamabil

Sea Route:

Used for bulk shipments.
Ports include:

Kolkata Port
Haldia Port
Chittagong Port

Air Freight:

Useful for high-value or urgent consignments.
Handled through Dhaka Airport.

Discuss Incoterms (FOB, CIF, DDP) with your buyer.

Step 7: File Shipping Bill & Complete Indian Customs Clearance

Your freight forwarder or CHA will:

File shipping bill via ICEGATE
Submit required documents
Complete customs examination
Obtain Let Export Order

Goods are then cleared for onward movement to Bangladesh.

Step 8: Bangladesh Customs Clearance

Upon reaching Bangladesh, the importer must file a Bill of Entry with customs.

Bangladesh Customs verifies:

Invoice
HS code
Certificate of Origin
PSI certificate (if applicable)
Test reports

Duties, VAT, and supplementary taxes are assessed and paid.

Step 9: Delivery to Buyer or Distribution Network

After clearing customs, goods are delivered to:

Buyer’s warehouse
Retail shops
Factories
E-commerce distributors

Bangladesh has strong trade networks, especially in Dhaka, Chittagong, and Narayanganj.

Step 10: Claim Export Benefits in India

After export, claim benefits such as:

RoDTEP rebate
Duty drawback
GST refund under LUT/Bond

Keep all documents for audit compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is pre-shipment inspection mandatory for exports to Bangladesh?

Yes, for certain categories like machinery and electrical goods.

2. Are food imports in Bangladesh regulated?

Yes. Food items require compliance with Bangladesh Food Safety standards and often Halal certification.

3. Can we export via land border?

Yes. The Petrapole–Benapole border is the busiest and most efficient.

4. What languages are accepted on product labels?

English labels are widely accepted; Bengali labels may be required depending on buyer preference.

5. How long does customs clearance take?

Typically 1–3 days for compliant shipments.

Final Tips for Exporters to Bangladesh

Understand tax layers (customs duty, VAT, supplementary duty).
Discuss PSI requirements early with buyers.
Maintain strong packaging for land-based transport.
Use reliable transporters familiar with India–Bangladesh corridors.

Disclaimer

This blog is for informational purposes only. Export rules, customs procedures, labeling regulations, and trade policies may change as updated by DGFT, ICEGATE, Bangladesh Customs, and related authorities. Readers should consult certified professionals before making decisions. Saving Mantra is not responsible for any decisions taken based on this content.

Step-by-Step Process for Export to Bangladesh