The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has officially issued the Customs Clearing and Forwarding (C&F) Agent Licensing Rules, 2026, marking a significant update in the regulatory framework for customs agents in Bangladesh. The announcement was made in a press release on Wednesday.
This new regulation replaces the C&F Agent Licensing Rules, 2020, aiming to enhance service quality for importers and exporters while promoting a more competitive environment within the customs sector. According to NBR, the 2026 rules were formulated in accordance with the Customs Act, 2023, and were officially promulgated via a notification on 8 January 2026.
Previously, there were no standalone guidelines specifically governing the issuance of C&F agent licenses, with licensing decisions relying largely on the 2020 framework. The updated rules are designed to streamline and modernise the licensing process, making it more accessible and efficient for eligible applicants.
Key Features of the 2026 C&F Licensing Rules
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| License Eligibility | All candidates who pass the prescribed examination are eligible for a C&F agent license. |
| Station-Based Approval | No prior approval from NBR is required to determine the number of licenses at individual customs stations. |
| Annual Examination | Licenses will be issued following a regular examination, conducted at a designated time each year. |
| Closed Customs Stations | Licenses issued for agents at a closed customs station remain valid and are not automatically cancelled. |
| Operational Flexibility | License holders may conduct clearing and forwarding activities at any operational customs station through territorial extension. |
NBR emphasised that the primary objectives of the 2026 rules are to simplify the operational procedures for C&F agents, ensure compliance with modern customs practices, and create a transparent licensing environment. By removing the requirement for prior approval for station-based licenses and allowing operational flexibility across multiple customs stations, the rules aim to improve efficiency and service coverage.
The introduction of a structured annual examination process will further ensure that only qualified individuals are granted licenses, thereby raising professional standards across the sector. This modernised framework is expected to significantly reduce administrative delays, streamline customs operations, and support the growth of Bangladesh’s import and export industries.
NBR officials expressed optimism that the new licensing rules will foster a more competitive, transparent, and service-oriented customs environment, ultimately benefiting traders, freight forwarders, and the wider economy.