How to set up a Shipping & Logistics business in Bangladesh
We advise shipping lines, local agents, freight forwarders, customs agents and vessel owners on licensing, registration, maritime contracts and the disputes that arise in ports and at sea.
Gateway to the Bay of Bengal
With the ports of Chattogram, Mongla and Payra and an extensive inland-waterway network, shipping and logistics are vital to Bangladesh’s trade. The sector covers ocean and coastal shipping, inland vessels, shipping agencies, freight forwarding, customs clearing and warehousing.
Each activity has its own licensing authority — from the Department of Shipping and the port authorities to customs. Getting licensed correctly, and using sound contracts and bills of lading, protects operators against claims and delays.
Key steps to get started
Company Formation
Incorporate with RJSC and obtain a trade licence, e-TIN and BIN.
Choose Your Activity
Shipping agency, freight forwarding, C&F (customs agent), vessel ownership or warehousing.
Activity Licence
Obtain the licence for that activity from the relevant authority.
Vessel Registration
Register ocean-going, coastal or inland vessels and obtain the required certificates.
Contracts & Documents
Bills of lading, charterparties, agency and logistics service agreements.
Claims & Insurance
P&I and cargo insurance, and procedures for cargo claims and ship arrest.
What you are likely to need
Depending on your activity, you may need:
- RJSC incorporation & trade licence
- e-TIN & VAT/BIN registration
- Shipping agent licence
- Freight forwarder licence
- Customs (C&F) agent licence
- Vessel registration certificate
- Port authority registrations
- Bonded warehouse / ICD licences
Key laws & regulators
- Bangladesh Merchant Shipping Act, 2020
- Admiralty Court Act, 2000
- Carriage of Goods by Sea Act, 1925
- Bangladesh Flag Vessels (Protection of Interest) Act, 2019
- Customs Act, 2023
- Territorial Waters and Maritime Zones Act, 1974
- Contract Act, 1872
- Regulators: Department of Shipping, CPA, MPA, NBR
Your legal partner from day one
We advise on the right structure — company, branch, liaison office or joint venture.
We handle name clearance, RJSC incorporation and constitutional documents.
We obtain sector licences, registrations and regulatory approvals.
We support ongoing filings, contracts, employment and disputes.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a shipping agent and a freight forwarder?
A shipping agent represents the ship or shipping line in port; a freight forwarder arranges carriage of goods for cargo owners. Each needs its own licence.
Can a foreign shipping line operate in Bangladesh?
Foreign lines usually operate through licensed local agents or their own local entities. We advise on the right structure.
How do I recover a cargo-damage claim?
Through notice of claim, negotiation with the carrier or insurer and, where needed, an admiralty suit — which may be secured by arresting the vessel.
Where can I read about ship arrest?
See our Admiralty & Ship Arrest practice-area page, or contact our team for urgent matters.
Speak with our legal team
Tell us about your matter. A Premier Law Services lawyer will review it and advise you on the right next step — in person at our Dhaka chamber or online.