Quick answer: The Import Policy Order 2026–2029 (S.R.O. 308-Law/2026, gazette of 24 August 2026) makes LC-less imports far easier, gives industrial IRCs a 5-year validity, tightens HS-code and origin-marking rules, and keeps a list of 28 prohibited items. Fees are still set by separate gazette notices.
The Ministry of Commerce issued the new Import Policy Order under section 3(1) of the Imports and Exports (Control) Act 1950. It replaces the order that expired on 30 June 2024 and is valid until 31 December 2029. If you import raw materials, machinery or trading goods, these are the changes that matter.
1. LC-less imports without a value cap
Imports of industrial and commercial goods can now be made against a purchase or sales contract that states value and quantity — no import licence and, for many goods, no LC. The older annual cap for commercial LC-less imports has been reported as removed. Land ports still have per-consignment limits (for example perishable food via Teknaf), so check your route.
What to do: keep contracts, proforma invoices and bank documents consistent; your bank still verifies your IRC and HS code before payment.
2. Industrial IRC valid for 5 years
An industrial IRC is now valid for 5 years, renewable for another 5 years on the sponsoring authority's recommendation (BIDA, BSCIC, BEPZA, Department of Textiles and others). If the business is dissolved the IRC lapses and must be returned within 120 days.
What to do: commercial IRC holders should still plan yearly renewal; check the fee notice before paying. See our IRC guide.
3. 8-digit HS codes on every document
The LC, bill of lading, proforma and commercial invoice must all carry the 8-digit HS code. Where description and HS code conflict, the description prevails — but mismatches still delay clearance.
4. Origin marking and labelling
A certificate of origin is required with every import. The importer's name, address, e-TIN/BIN and country of origin must be marked on at least 2% of outer packs, with exemptions for bulk cargo, small consignments and several special categories. Packaged goods need Bangla or English labels.
5. BSTI mandatory list now 79 items
Appendix-4 lists 79 products that need BSTI conformity under Bangladesh Standards (foods, cosmetics, fans, LED lamps, batteries, rebar, cement, tiles and more). Certified goods need an accredited-lab certificate or a BSTI test report.
6. 28 prohibited items
Part B of Appendix-1 bans 28 categories, including refurbished office equipment and old computers, used motorcycles, used electric vehicles, two-stroke three-wheelers, polythene bags and some chemicals. Motorcycles above a cc limit are also restricted — the gazette text says 165 cc while some news reports mention 375 cc, so confirm before importing.
7. Fees are set separately
Article 6(11) says registration, renewal and permit fees are fixed by gazette notice. Until a new notice appears, CCI&E applies the fee table issued in August 2022.
How Legal Zone can help
We check whether your goods are free, controlled or banned, prepare your IRC (new or renewal), align your HS codes and documents, and register you for VAT so your customs and bank files match. Book a free consultation.
Status: the gazette text was read in full; confirmation on the Ministry and CCI&E portals and any later amending SRO (one was reported on 21 September 2026) is pending. We reconfirm every point before advising on a live file.
