NBR Launches Online Import-Export Hub to Streamline International Trade

DHAKA, Feb 24, 2025 – The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has introduced a state-of-the-art online import-export hub, aiming to centralize customs and tariff-related information under a single digital platform. This initiative is designed to enhance efficiency in international trade and facilitate smoother business operations for importers and exporters.

The launching event was graced by Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun, Executive Chairman of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) and the Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA), who attended as the chief guest. Javed Akhtar, President of the Foreign Investors’ Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), participated as a special guest.

Several notable figures from the business and financial sectors were also present, including Rupali Haque Chowdhury, Managing Director of Berger Paints Bangladesh Limited and former FICCI President, Mohammad Mesbaudin, Director of Fair Electronics Limited, Hoe Yun Jeong, Country Director of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), and Michael J. Parr, Chief of Party of the Bangladesh Trade Facilitation Project.

The event was presided over by NBR Chairman Md Abdur Rahman Khan, while Kazi Mostafizur Rahman, NBR Member (Customs Audit, Modernization, and International Trade), delivered the welcome speech.

A Digital Solution for Seamless Trade

The newly launched online import-export hub allows businesses and individuals to access comprehensive trade-related details, including:

• General trade information and compliance requirements
• Product-specific documentation
• Tariff rates and duty structures
• Tax benefits and preferential tax schemes
• Approximate tax calculators

This system can be accessed through the NBR website (hub.bangladeshcustoms.gov.bd), ensuring easy navigation and transparency for traders.

Integration with Customs Modernization Efforts

The introduction of this hub aligns with the Customs Strategic Plan 2024-2028 and the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) module under the Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA) World, which is expected to accelerate consignment clearance at ports.

Highlighting the importance of automation, Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud remarked, “A new chapter in trade facilitation has begun in Bangladesh with the introduction of the AEO certificate. This will significantly reduce the time and costs associated with international trade.”

He expressed optimism that importers and exporters would greatly benefit from the streamlined customs procedures, ultimately boosting business confidence and investment.

Benefits of the AEO System

Under the AEO system, compliant taxpayers will experience:

• Minimal customs interventions during inspections
• Direct delivery of imported goods from vessels to premises under a self-assessment framework
• Seamless tax payments through bank-to-bank fund transfers

NBR Chairman Abdur Rahman Khan emphasized that this approach will ensure faster trade processing, benefiting both local businesses and international investors.

A Boost for Foreign Direct Investment

Javed Akhter, who also serves as the Chairman of Unilever Bangladesh Limited, praised the initiative, stating, “This move will strengthen investor confidence in Bangladesh and encourage more foreign direct investment (FDI). We will highlight this progress in Bangladesh’s digital transformation to global investors.”

Future Expansion Plans

During his presentation, NBR First Secretary (Customs) Amimul Ehsan Khan explained that exporters and importers can now access all essential documents and tariff-related regulations through the digital hub, eliminating the need for multiple office visits.

Initially, the system has been rolled out for agricultural products, but there are plans to expand it to all product categories in the near future. “Our goal is to ensure that businesses across all sectors can benefit from this platform,” he added.

Supplementary Context

Bangladesh has been making steady strides in modernizing its trade and customs processes to meet global compliance standards. The implementation of ASYCUDA World, along with AEO certification, aligns the country with international trade best practices, reducing bureaucratic hurdles and increasing competitiveness.

The launch of this online import-export hub is expected to significantly contribute to the Ease of Doing Business Index, making Bangladesh a more attractive destination for global investors and enhancing its position in the international trade landscape.