IRC (Import Registration Certificate) and ERC (Export Registration Certificate) in Bangladesh
1. Introduction
In Bangladesh, businesses engaged in international trade (importing and exporting goods) are required to obtain specific government authorizations to ensure transparency, compliance, and regulation. The Import Registration Certificate (IRC) and Export Registration Certificate (ERC) are two essential documents issued by the Office of the Chief Controller of Imports and Exports (CCI&E) under the Ministry of Commerce.
Without these certificates, no entity or individual is legally permitted to engage in import or export activities on a commercial scale in Bangladesh.
2. Import Registration Certificate (IRC)
Definition
The IRC is a license that allows a business or organization to legally import goods into Bangladesh for commercial purposes.
Who Needs IRC
Businesses importing raw materials, machinery, or finished goods.
Trading companies dealing with imported products.
Industrial units importing raw materials for production.
Types of IRC
IRC is issued in different categories depending on the scale of imports:
Commercial IRC – For businesses importing finished goods for resale.
Industrial IRC – For industries importing raw materials and machinery for production.
Key Requirements to Obtain IRC
Valid Trade License
TIN Certificate (Tax Identification Number)
VAT Registration Certificate
Membership Certificate from Chamber of Commerce or Trade Association
Bank Solvency Certificate
Partnership deed / Incorporation Certificate (for companies)
Passport-size photographs of owners/directors
Issuing Authority
Office of the Chief Controller of Imports and Exports (CCI&E)
3. Export Registration Certificate (ERC)
Definition
The ERC is a license that allows a business to legally export goods from Bangladesh to foreign markets.
Who Needs ERC
Export-oriented businesses.
Manufacturers producing goods for international markets.
Trading companies involved in the export of Bangladeshi products like garments, jute, seafood, leather, etc.
Key Requirements to Obtain ERC
Valid Trade License
TIN Certificate
VAT Registration Certificate
Bank Solvency Certificate
Membership Certificate from Chamber of Commerce or Trade Association
Incorporation/partnership deed (for companies)
Passport-size photographs
Issuing Authority
Office of the Chief Controller of Imports and Exports (CCI&E)
4. Validity and Renewal
Both IRC and ERC are usually valid for one year and must be renewed annually.
Renewal requires submitting updated trade license, tax payment documents, and applicable fees.
5. Importance of IRC and ERC
Legal Compliance – Mandatory for businesses involved in import/export.
Bank Transactions – Required to open L/Cs (Letters of Credit) with banks for international trade.
Customs Clearance – Customs authorities require IRC/ERC to process shipments.
Business Growth – Enables businesses to legally connect with global markets.
6. Penalties for Non-Compliance
Businesses without valid IRC/ERC cannot legally import/export.
Customs may seize goods if IRC/ERC is missing.
Legal actions and financial penalties may be imposed.
7. Conclusion
The IRC and ERC are cornerstones of Bangladesh’s international trade framework. They ensure that businesses comply with government regulations, pay due taxes, and maintain transparency in cross-border trade. Any entity wishing to import raw materials, machinery, or finished goods—or export products to foreign markets—must obtain these certificates from the CCI&E and renew them regularly.