Establishing and operating a business in Bangladesh typically requires approvals and licences from multiple regulatory authorities beyond basic company registration. LegalBD maps the full regulatory landscape for each client's business and manages the approval process efficiently, leveraging our established relationships with BIDA, Bangladesh Bank, BSEC, BTRC, and sector-specific authorities.
BIDA One-Stop Service
BIDA's One-Stop Service (OSS) is the primary gateway for foreign investors, providing access to services from over 35 government entities on a single platform. Services available through the OSS include utility connections (gas, electricity, water), visa and work permit facilitation, land registration, environmental clearance, and sector-specific licences. LegalBD files and tracks OSS applications, follows up with relevant agencies, and escalates where approvals are delayed.
Sector-Specific Licences
Regulated industries require specific operational licences in addition to standard company registration. Key examples: pharmaceuticals (Directorate General of Drug Administration), food processing (Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution, Bangladesh Food Safety Authority), financial services (Bangladesh Bank for banking/MFS, BSEC for capital markets), telecommunications (Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission), energy (Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission), and civil aviation (Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh). Each involves distinct application requirements, technical assessments, and ongoing compliance obligations.
Environmental Clearance
Manufacturing and industrial operations require environmental clearance from the Department of Environment under the Bangladesh Environment Conservation Act 1995 (as amended in 2010). Clearance is issued in stages: Site Clearance and Environmental Clearance Certificate, with different tiers applying depending on the environmental impact category of the project. We advise on clearance applications and work with environmental consultants to prepare the required documentation.
Import and Export Registrations
Businesses importing or exporting goods require an Import Registration Certificate (IRC) and/or Export Registration Certificate (ERC) from the Chief Controller of Imports and Exports. We handle these registrations as part of the broader company setup and operational licensing process.