The National Board of Revenue (NBR) is expanding its National Single Window (NSW) system by integrating 18 additional agencies, further simplifying import-export and business processes in Bangladesh, confirmed officials.
The move will allow businesses to handle all trade-related documentation, certifications, and approvals through a single online platform, eliminating the need for physical visits to various government offices.
“This is a long-standing plan of NBR to simplify business and trade procedures. We want businesses to thrive without delays or the need to visit multiple offices,” NBR Board Member and Tax Administration Head GM Abul Kalam Kaikobad told TIMES of Bangladesh.
The decision follows a meeting held on 30th August 2025, chaired by the Chief Adviser, where the inclusion of key agencies was discussed. The new agencies include NBR’s Customs and Income Tax divisions, along with 16 other important government bodies such as the Ministries of Commerce, Agriculture, Foreign Affairs, and the Ministry of Industries.
The Department of Narcotics Control, Bangladesh Navy, Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution, BCSIR, Bangladesh Reference Institute for Chemical Measurements, Food Safety Authority, Chattogram, Mongla, and Payra Port Authorities, Bangladesh Bank, and the Federation of Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industries also received the letter to be integrated with the NSW.
The NSW platform, launched on 2nd January 2025, has already processed over 431,000 certificates, licenses, and permits, significantly reducing the administrative burden for businesses. With the integration of the 18 new agencies, NBR aims to streamline trade operations and offer a one-stop digital solution for all trade-related needs.
The NSW system allows businesses to submit documents, make payments, and obtain approvals through an online portal, automating the process and ensuring transparency. The shift to digital processes will save time and reduce the overall cost of doing business in Bangladesh.
Currently, 19 agencies are part of the NSW system, including the Directorate General of Drug Administration, Export Promotion Bureau, Department of Explosives, Bangladesh National Authority for Chemical Weapons Convention, Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority, Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority, Department of Environment, Bangladesh Standards and Industrial Research Institute, and Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission.
Other agencies include the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority, Bangladesh Civil Aviation Authority, Bangladesh Telecommunications Regulatory Commission, Fisheries Department, Livestock Department, Department of Product Quality and Warranty, Bangladesh Investment Development Authority, Bangladesh Garment Factory Owners Association, Bangladesh Weaving and Garment Owners Association, and the Department of Industry and Commerce.
