Bangladesh is accelerating efforts to introduce a fully paperless customs system by 2028, expanding its digital clearance platform to include more public and private agencies.

The move is part of a broader initiative to simplify trade procedures, reduce business costs, and enhance competitiveness ahead of the country’s graduation from least-developed-country (LDC) status in 2026.

Following directives from the Chief Adviser’s Office, the National Board of Revenue (NBR) will integrate 18 additional government and private entities into the Bangladesh Single Window (BSW) by December 2026. Currently, 19 organizations, including the Directorate General of Drug Administration and the apex exporters’ association, are connected to the platform.

The BSW became fully operational across all customs ports in early July after a three-month pilot phase. In September, the government marked a milestone with the issuance of 500,000 customs clearance permits (CLPs). Project Director Jewel Ahmed said the system has already halved customs processing times and significantly reduced transaction costs for businesses.

However, importers argue that full digitalization remains a distant goal. Many agencies still require physical visits for certificates, permits, and licenses, often delaying clearance for up to a month. Industry insiders also point to inefficiencies and limited coordination among importers, forwarding agents, and customs officers.

Labaid Cancer Hospital Managing Director Sakif Shamim highlighted the absence of real-time value assessment in customs evaluations and called for the adoption of blockchain technology to ensure transparency. “Underhanded dealings and bribery remain major barriers to full automation,” he said.

Incepta Pharmaceuticals executive Naimul Huda said the BSW has eased the import of finished goods but noted that the pharmaceutical sector still faces lengthy delays due to complex certification processes. He urged the inclusion of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) under the platform to streamline imports vital to the industry’s survival.

The Tk 5.85 billion World Bank-funded project, launched eight years ago, has reduced customs clearance times to within 24 hours for connected agencies. Officials say full integration of all relevant bodies is crucial for Bangladesh to achieve its goal of a paperless, transparent, and efficient customs system by 2028.