The government has introduced a new import policy aimed at simplifying trade, improving policy certainty for businesses and aligning Bangladesh’s import regime with international trade practices.
The Import Policy Order 2026-2029, issued by the Ministry of Commerce on Monday, will remain in force until December 31, 2029.
The order was issued under Section 3(1) of the Imports and Exports (Control) Act, 1950.
The new policy brings several changes to import procedures, including wider scope for imports through purchase and sale agreements, expanded facilities for export-oriented industries and a higher engine-capacity ceiling for fully built motorcycles.
Wider scope for imports without LC
One of the key changes is the expansion of imports through purchase and sale agreements.
Industrial and commercial importers will now be able to import goods through such agreements without a value ceiling, alongside the existing option of opening letters of credit (LCs).
Under the previous 2021-24 import policy, imports through purchase and sale agreements were allowed without LCs, but restrictions and value limits applied to certain products and sectors.
The new policy expands the facility and seeks to bring Bangladesh’s import procedures closer to international trade practices.
Motorcycles up to 375cc allowed
The government has also raised the engine-capacity limit for fully built motorcycles that can be imported into Bangladesh.
Under the new policy, motorcycles with engines of up to 375cc can be imported in fully built condition.
The previous 2021-24 policy restricted imports of fully built motorcycles with engine capacity above 165cc.
More facilities for industry and exports
The new policy also provides for the establishment of free trade zones and central bonded warehouses.
Import facilities for expatriate Bangladeshis investing in industries have also been included, while opportunities to import raw materials for export-oriented industries have been expanded.
These measures are expected to support industrial production and investment by improving access to raw materials, machinery and other inputs.
Greater focus on international trade
The policy places greater emphasis on the country-of-origin requirements of imported goods.
It also seeks to facilitate the use of benefits available under free trade agreements, comprehensive economic partnership agreements, economic partnership agreements and other regional trade arrangements.
Such agreements can provide businesses with access to tariff preferences and new markets while helping them integrate more closely with global supply chains.
Emphasis on standards and transparency
The new framework also gives greater importance to international standards and technical regulations.
It incorporates provisions relating to Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT), the Codex Alimentarius and standards set by the Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution (BSTI).
The government expects clearer rules on product classification, import conditions, certification, documentation and country of origin to reduce uncertainty for businesses.
The changes are also intended to make import procedures more predictable and reduce the time and costs involved in trade.
Expected impact on investment
A more predictable import regime could help industries secure raw materials, capital machinery and technology more easily, supporting production and investment.
The broader import framework is also expected to strengthen the competitiveness of local businesses and improve Bangladesh’s position in global supply chains.
The new policy, therefore, goes beyond import control, with the government seeking to use trade facilitation as a tool to support industrialisation, investment and integration with the global economy.