🏛️ What is a Trade License?
In Bangladesh, a Trade License is an official document issued by the local government authority (City Corporation or Municipality) that legally allows an individual or company to operate a business within a specific area.
Without a valid Trade License, any form of business — shop, factory, consultancy, or online service — is considered unauthorized under the Municipal Taxation Rules.
⚙️ Trade License Issuing Authority
- 🟩 For Dhaka: Dhaka North/South City Corporation
- 🟩 For other cities: Respective City Corporation or Pourashava
- 🟩 For rural areas: Union Parishad
🧾 Types of Trade Licenses
Depending on the nature of business, trade licenses are divided into several categories:
- 🏬 General Business (e.g., retail shop, trading firm)
- 🏭 Manufacturing Industry
- 💻 Service Business (e.g., consultancy, freelancing, agency)
- 🍴 Food & Restaurant Business
📑 Required Documents for New Trade License
- ✔️ Application form (from City Corporation or Pourashava office)
- ✔️ National ID card of the owner
- ✔️ Recent passport-size photograph (2 copies)
- ✔️ Holding tax receipt or rent agreement
- ✔️ TIN Certificate (if applicable)
- ✔️ Declaration of business type and address
💰 Trade License Fees (Approximate)
Trade License fees vary based on business category and area. The range is generally:
- 🟢 Small Business: ৳200–৳1,000
- 🟢 Medium Business: ৳2,000–৳5,000
- 🟢 Large Company or Industry: ৳10,000+
Renewal fees are usually the same as the original license fee.
📆 Trade License Renewal Process
- Collect renewal form from your City Corporation or Pourashava.
- Attach previous license copy & rent receipt.
- Pay renewal fee to the authorized bank.
- Submit documents and get the new (renewed) license.
🔍 Online Trade License Application
Many City Corporations (like Dhaka North & South) now offer online Trade License services through their official websites. You can apply by uploading your NID, TIN, and business documents.
🔗 Visit DNCC Official Site | Visit DSCC Official Site
📊 Importance of Having a Trade License
- ✅ Legally operate your business in Bangladesh.
- ✅ Required for TIN, VAT, and Bank Account opening.
- ✅ Builds trust with clients and suppliers.
- ✅ Necessary for business expansion and loan applications.
🏁 Conclusion
A valid Trade License is the foundation of doing business legally in Bangladesh. Whether you are a doctor, consultant, retailer, or freelancer — you must have a trade license for your business identity and financial credibility.
💬 Stay connected with LearningGov Blog for more practical guides on business registration, VAT, Tax, and RJSC issues in Bangladesh.
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