Business Report :
The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has initiated a partial rollout of the National Single Window (NSW), integrating seven customs agencies into a unified system to simplify import and export processes for businesses.
Launched as a project in 2017, the NSW aims to streamline trade operations by consolidating the activities of 19 customs-related agencies into a single platform, as stated in an NBR press release issued on Thursday.
The initial launch event took place at a Dhaka hotel on Thursday, bringing the Department of Environment (DoE), the Directorate General of Drug Administration (DGDA), the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB), the Department of Explosives, the Bangladesh National Authority for Chemical Weapons Convention, the Bangladesh Economic Zone Authority, and the Bangladesh Export Processing Zone Authority under the system.
These seven agencies have begun implementing automation processes. Businesses can now obtain all necessary certifications, licenses, and permits related to imports and exports online via the NSW platform, eliminating the need for in-person visits.
The integration of the remaining 12 agencies is scheduled for 28 February, marking the system’s full launch.
The NBR introduced the National Single Window project in 2017 to centralize customs-related operations, reduce paperwork, and save time by maintaining up-to-date information. Once fully operational, the system will automate and streamline international trade-related processes, such as permits, licenses, certificates, and customs declarations, reducing costs and enhancing efficiency for traders.
The NSW also aims to curb tax evasion with support from the World Bank. Traders can use the platform to obtain all required documents, submit information, and expedite goods clearance based on the submitted data and issued certificates.
Designed as an internet-based information system for all organizations involved in international trade, the NSW is expected to simplify import-export procedures, reduce business costs, and speed up port clearance.
According to the NBR statement, the NSW includes two primary components: the Bangladesh Single Window (BSW) software and the Advance Risk Management System (ARMS), in line with Article 10.7 of the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA).
The ARMS is integrated with the BSW software. When a trader applies for certificates, licenses, or permits (CLPs) via the BSW platform, the application is automatically forwarded to relevant authorities, who receive insights into the applicant’s prior records through ARMS. This helps authorities make decisions based on risk management where necessary.
The BSW software features nine modules, and 81 out of 119 CLP configurations have already been completed. These 81 configurations are now live, enabling importers and exporters to access automated services.
