Doing Business in Bangladesh

The Bangladesh Bank (BB) has outlined a strategic plan to implement the Expected Credit Loss (ECL) methodology, in line with International Financial Reporting Standard (IFRS) 9, by 2027. This transition from a traditional rules-based loan classification system to a forward-looking, risk-based approach aims to improve credit risk assessment by considering past events, current conditions, and […]

Bangladesh is actively enhancing its corporate compliance and reporting frameworks to align with international standards and bolster financial transparency. Key areas of focus include:

Licensing and franchising serve as pivotal mechanisms for businesses in Bangladesh to expand their operations and monetize intellectual property assets. Through licensing agreements, intellectual property owners grant permission to third parties to use their IP rights under defined terms, facilitating revenue generation and market expansion. Franchising agreements, on the other hand, allow businesses to replicate

Effective enforcement of intellectual property rights (IPR) in Bangladesh has been a focal point for authorities. In February 2025, the World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a national workshop in Dhaka to bolster the capacity of the Bangladesh National Board of Revenue (NBR) to enforce IPR at borders. This initiative aimed to equip customs officials with

In Bangladesh, the protection of intellectual property rights is governed by several key legislations. The Trademarks Act 2009 and the Trademark Rules 2015 provide a framework for the registration and enforcement of trademarks, safeguarding brand identities against infringement. The Department of Patents, Designs, and Trademarks (DPDT), established in 2003 under the Ministry of Industries, oversees

Bangladesh is undergoing major infrastructure transformations to improve trade and connectivity. The Matarbari deep-sea port, expected to be operational by 2026, will enhance maritime trade capacity. The Dhaka Elevated Expressway and the Dhaka Bypass are crucial projects aimed at decongesting urban traffic and improving regional connectivity. The Dhaka MRT Line-5 (Northern and Southern Routes) and

Office leasing and industrial property acquisition are gaining momentum as Bangladesh positions itself as a regional business and manufacturing hub. The demand for office space remains high in Dhaka, particularly in Gulshan, Banani, and Motijheel. Industrial property acquisition, including factories and warehouses, is expanding due to the growth of export-oriented industries. Investors must secure proper

Foreigners face restrictions when purchasing land in Bangladesh but can buy residential properties through a locally incorporated company. They can invest in apartments, condominiums, and commercial buildings but are generally prohibited from acquiring agricultural land. Transactions must be completed in foreign currency, and foreign investors must comply with local tax regulations. The Transfer of Property

The commercial real estate market in Bangladesh is poised for growth in 2025, driven by economic expansion, foreign investments, and rising demand for premium properties. Demand for office spaces and retail properties has surged in major cities like Dhaka and Chittagong, fueled by the expansion of multinational corporations and local enterprises. The market is witnessing

The customs clearance process in Bangladesh involves multiple steps, beginning with a customs officer’s examination of trade documents. Required paperwork includes a Letter of Credit (L/C), invoice, bill of lading, packing list, certificate of origin, insurance policy, and VAT/BIN certificate. Duties and taxes are assessed based on these documents, and clearance is granted upon payment.