NBR initiates dedicated licensing rules for shipping agents to boost port efficiency

National Board of Revenue (NBR) has introduced the country's first dedicated regulatory framework for shipping agents to speed up port operations and reduce long-standing administrative issues in the maritime and logistics sector.

Under the newly formulated 'Shipping Agent Licensing Rules-2025,' shipping agents will be able to operate across all sea and river ports in the country after obtaining approval from any single customs station, according to NBR officials.

According to a gazette notification issued on 30 December, the Internal Resources Division of the Ministry of Finance, in consultation with the NBR, formulated the rules.  

Officials said the new framework fills a regulatory gap that had existed for years, as shipping agents were previously governed under the Customs Agent Licensing Rules alongside customs and clearing and forwarding (C&F) agents, despite having distinct responsibilities.

Hailing the move, industry stakeholders called it a long-overdue reform. 

"This marks a major step in improving shipping operations in Bangladesh," said Khairul Alam Sujan, former director of the Bangladesh Shipping Agent Association and a contributor to the policy.

"Under the previous unified licensing system, the distinction between shipping agents and C&F agents was often unclear, creating delays and operational confusion. The new rules formally recognise the unique role of shipping agents, which should streamline procedures significantly," he observed. 

Sujan further said that the policy introduces three key changes: the removal of the licensing examination, nationwide validity of a licence obtained from any river or seaport through the adjacent customs station, and the establishment of an arbitration committee with a clear complaint-resolution mechanism and a precisely defined scope of the licence.

Shipping agents usually represent vessel owners, operators, or charterers and are responsible for port-related activities such as berthing arrangements, cargo documentation, vessel manifests, and coordination with port authorities.

Under the new rules, shipping agents can apply for licences by submitting documents including trade licences, income tax returns, VAT registration certificates, bank solvency certificates, and proof of office infrastructure. 

Applicants must also submit a bank guarantee of Tk10 lakh as evidence of financial capability while a $1,00,000 bank guarantee has been set for a foreign joint venture.

The non-refundable fee for an initial licence has been set at Tk 1,00,000, while renewal will cost Tk50, 000 every three years. Once issued, the licence will be valid nationwide, eliminating the need for separate approvals for individual ports such as Chattogram, Mongla, or inland river ports.

According to the rules, licensed agents will be required to submit vessel manifests electronically, ensure accurate cargo declarations, verify the gross mass of containers following international standards, and issue delivery orders within stipulated timelines.

Moreover, they must also follow safety and handling requirements for hazardous cargo under internationally recognised codes.

Licences may be cancelled or revoked for violations such as wilful misrepresentation, inaccurate declarations, failure to submit documents on time, or non-payment of dues, setting fines of up to Tk1 lakh, suspending licences for up to 30 days, or cancelling in severe cases.

Shipping agents will be required to use online customs platforms for submitting manifests and related documents, as well as the Integrated VAT Administration System (IVAS) for tax compliance, by aligning with the government's broader push to digitise trade and port operations.

"Transparency and digitisation can significantly reduce opportunities for rent-seeking and inefficiencies," said a former customs official seeking anonymity, adding that shipping agents play a critical role in the smooth movement of vessels and cargo.

Bangladesh handles more than 90% of its international trade through maritime routes, with growing pressure on ports due to rising import-export volumes.

The NBR has ordered existing shipping agents to shift to the new licensing step within the timeframe to avoid disruptions to operations.