UK to support NBR in modernising customs administration, facilitating trade

The UK Government's revenue authority, His Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Bangladesh's National Board of Revenue (NBR) today, marking a new step in cooperation on trade facilitation and customs reform. 

Through the agreement, the UK has pledged to support Bangladesh's ongoing efforts to modernise its customs administration and strengthen its integration with the global trading system.

The MoU creates a framework for technical assistance and capacity building to be delivered by HMRC experts. Support will focus on helping the NBR implement key reforms under the World Trade Organisation's Trade Facilitation Agreement, improving risk management systems, and expanding the recently launched Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme. These initiatives are designed to streamline border processes, reduce delays, and build stronger trust with international trading partners.

As part of the collaboration, NBR staff will benefit from a mix of in-person and remote training sessions, alongside technical advice on customs reform and trade facilitation. The agreement also provides for peer-to-peer learning, short-term staff exchanges, and assistance in developing risk profiling and information-sharing systems to strengthen enforcement capacity.

Speaking on the occasion, Martin Dawson, Deputy Development Director at the British High Commission in Dhaka, said the partnership reflects the UK's long-term commitment to supporting Bangladesh's economic development. "Through our technical assistance programmes, we are helping strengthen institutions, improve trade systems, and support mutual economic growth. As Bangladesh graduates from Least Developed Country status, efficient customs systems will play a vital role in unlocking economic opportunities."

NBR Chairman Md Abdur Rahman Khan welcomed the agreement, describing it as an important step toward modernising Bangladesh's customs administration. "This agreement is a valuable step in our efforts to modernise our customs and improve trade facilitation. We welcome the UK Government's technical support and look forward to working together to strengthen our systems and drive economic growth."

The customs agreement is part of a wider programme of UK technical assistance on economic development in Bangladesh. Alongside customs reforms, this programme also covers support for trade policy, investment climate improvements, and financial sector development, with the broader aim of helping Bangladesh build a more resilient and inclusive economy.