Requirements for Importing IT and Telecom Equipment into Bangladesh
Bangladesh is the largest importer of telecommunication equipment in South Asia, positioning it as one of the fastest-growing and profitable markets for telecom equipment manufacturers and importers.
However, Bangladesh regulatory requirements and registration procedures require an experienced importer of record like Blackthorne for a hassle-free market entry.
Let’s explore the regulatory procedures for importing IT and telecommunication equipment into Bangladesh.
Import Requirements for IT and Telecom Equipment into Bangladesh
Here are the three main import requirements and regulations to comply with when importing IT and telecom equipment into Bangladesh:
1. Import Certifications and Approvals
Importing telecommunication equipment into Bangladesh requires approval from various authorities:
- A No Objection Certificate (NOC) or BTRC Type Approval: Issued by the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) for all telecom and radio frequency equipment, including modems and routers
- Import Registration Certificate (IRC): Issued by the Chief Controller of Imports and Exports (CCI&E) for all commercial goods importers
2. Import Documentation Requirements
You must fulfill the following documentation to facilitate customs clearance in Bangladesh:
- Packing list
- Bill of lading
- Certificate of origin
- Commercial invoice
- BTRC Type Approval/NOC
- TIN, IRC, and VAT certificate
- Product conformity/safety certificates
- Declaration of conformity (for electrical equipment)
- Insurance certificate (from a local Bangladeshi provider)
- Advance cargo notification (required at least 24 hours before equipment arrival)
3. Customs Regulations
IT equipment importers must meet the following customs regulations:
Import Registration
- Register with the Chief Controller of Imports and Exports (CCI&E) to obtain an Import Registration Certificate (IRC)
- Obtain a valid Tax Identification Number (TIN) and VAT certificate from the National Board of Revenue (NBR)
- Complete a Letter of Credit Authorisation Form (LCAF) for each import transaction (except for imports into Export Processing Zones)
Customs Duties and Taxes
- Duties: The importer of record discharges applicable duty rates depending on the HS code and according to the imported goods’ tariff schedule
- Value Added Tax (VAT): The standard rate is 5%-15%, depending on the HS classification of the equipment
- Advance Income Tax (AIT): 5% on assessed import value
Note: The importer of record must be a VAT-registered resident entity
Import with an IOR
Use our online calculator to see how much it costs to ship to the USA with Blackthorne IT
Import into Bangladesh with Blackthorne IOR
A locally registered entity is essential for complying with customs regulations, certifying IT equipment imports, and processing paperwork.
With a local presence in Bangladesh, Blackthorne offers entity representation with a wide range of IOR services, including:
- Managing compliance with customs regulations, local and international trade laws, and documentation requirements
- Obtaining relevant approvals and certification for your equipment
- Coordinating pre-arrival notifications and inspection requirements
- Managing the transportation of your equipment with delivery to data centres, forward stocking, and mini forward stocking locations globally
- Ensuring ongoing compliance with changing regulatory requirements and compliance updates
Import into Bangladesh with Blackthorne IOR Services
Contact us today to import data centre equipment, networking components, and IT infrastructure into Bangladesh promptly and cost-efficiently
