Separate licensing framework issued for shipping trade

The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has, for the first time, issued a separate licensing framework for the shipping trade.

The Shipping Agent Licensing Regulations 2025 were issued through a gazette notification on December 30 of the just-concluded year.

Previously, shipping agents operated under the Customs Agent Licensing Regulations 2020, creating complexities as clearing and forwarding agents and shipping agents were governed by the same rules.

Under the new regulations, a shipping agent licence issued from one customs station will be valid for operations at any seaport or river port across the country.

The NBR also said prior board approval will no longer be required to determine the number of licences, enabling faster issuance.

Khairul Alam Sujan, vice-president of the Bangladesh Freight Forwarders Association (BAFFA), said the regulations recognise shipping as an independent national commercial sector.

He added that key reforms include scrapping written and viva exams and ensuring licence issuance within 30 working days if documents are in order.

In a press release, the NBR said the move aims to ensure competition, transparency, and accountability in issuing shipping agent licences from customs stations adjacent to seaports and river ports.

The NBR said the reforms will help promote an investment-friendly environment and ease import-export activities.