Prepared by the London office, Holborn Gate, 330 High Holborn, London, WC1V 7QH, England. This note summarises the purpose, typical documentary requirements and procedural steps associated with the Export Registration Certificate (ERC) in Bangladesh and highlights practical issues for UK and international businesses considering exports from Bangladesh. It is a general overview and should not be relied on as legal advice.

Overview

The ERC is a registration issued by the competent Bangladeshi authorities to entities authorised to export domestically produced goods. The requirement to register is set out in national export policy and related administrative instruments. The ERC both enables routine export customs clearances and provides a record for statistical and regulatory oversight. Procedures, fees and documentary requirements are subject to change; applicants should verify current rules with the relevant Bangladeshi authorities before applying.

Typical application process and supporting documents

While procedural details vary in practice, the ERC application commonly follows these steps:

1. Obtain the prescribed application form from the authorised regulator (office or website).
2. Assemble supporting documentation and evidence of legal existence and trade activity.
3. Pay any prescribed registration fees and obtain proof of payment (treasury challan or equivalent).
4. Submit the completed application, supporting documents and payment proof to the designated office for processing and verification.
5. Respond to any requests for original document verification or further information; collect the ERC once issued.

Common supporting documents requested include:

• Certified copy of company or business registration (certificate of incorporation, memorandum/articles or partnership deed as applicable).
• Valid trade licence showing authorised activities.
• Membership evidence from a local chamber of commerce or recognised trade association (where requested).
• Proof of payment of any registration fees (original treasury/challan receipts).
• Recent passport-sized photograph or identification of the authorised signatory (where required).

Practical considerations for UK and international exporters

For international businesses and advisers, key considerations include:

• Compliance risk: ensure corporate documents are up to date and correctly certified for use in Bangladesh; some authorities may require attestation or presentation of originals for verification.
• Timing: administrative processing times can vary; allow sufficient lead time before intended shipments.
• Fees and renewals: registration may attract initial and periodic renewal fees—confirm current amounts and renewal cycles with the regulator.
• Local representation: if you do not have a local presence, consider appointing a local agent or adviser familiar with submission and verification practices.
• Customs and trade controls: an ERC does not replace any export control, customs or preferential origin documentation required for particular products or markets.

Practical checklist

• Confirm whether your business activity requires an ERC for the intended goods.
• Obtain the current application form from the competent authority.
• Prepare certified copies of company registration, trade licence and relevant constitutive documents.
• Arrange payment of any registration fee and secure official payment receipts.
• Submit the application with originals where requested and keep copies of the complete submission.
• Monitor the application and be prepared to supply further evidence or attend verification.

Jurisdiction and sources

Primary official authorities and instruments to consult include:

• Ministry of Commerce (Export Policy / Export Policy Order)
• Office of the Chief Controller of Imports & Exports (CCI&E)
• Bangladesh Bank (for official payment procedures)
• Sonali Bank (designated government bank branches may be used for certain payments)
• National Board of Revenue (customs and tax-related guidance)

General information only; not legal advice and not a substitute for advice on a particular matter.