Mobile, Laptops and 19 items are duty-free for returning Bangladesh from Abroad

The Government of Bangladesh has updated the baggage rules for travelers returning from abroad, introducing significant changes in the types and quantities of goods that can be brought into the country either duty-free or by paying a fixed duty.

These changes were introduced in the national budget for the fiscal year and are expected to have a notable impact on frequent international travelers.

Duty-Free Items Now Allowed

According to the new rules, passengers aged 12 years or older can bring up to 65 kilograms of baggage without paying any duty or tax, while children under 12 can bring up to 40 kilograms.

A total of 19 types of items can now be brought in duty-free under the updated baggage rules. These includes Two used mobile phones and one brand-new phone, Carpet up to 15 square meters in size, Television up to 29 inches, Desktop or laptop computers, scanners, printers, Video or digital cameras, Microwave ovens, rice cookers, gas ovens, pressure cookers, Toasters, blenders, juicers, coffee makers, food processors, Sewing machines, table fans, Personal sports equipments, Up to 100 grams of gold jewelry, One carton of cigarettes and Music systems with CDs and speakers.

Items Allowed with Duties Paid

Eleven categories of items can be imported by paying a fixed customs duty. These includes Gold bars weighing up to 117 grams per year, at a duty of BDT 5,000 per tola (11.664 grams), Silver bars up to 234 grams (20 tola), Televisions larger than 30 inches, Home theaters, refrigerators, deep freezers, Air conditioners, HD cameras, chandeliers, Satellite dish antennas, Air guns (with permission from the Ministry of Commerce), Dishwashers, washing machines, and cloth dryers.

Duties on these items range from BDT 300 to BDT 90,000 depending on the product.

Changes in Baggage Rules

Previously, a passenger could bring in 100 grams of gold jewelry duty-free on multiple occasions. Now, that limit has been restricted to once a year. The new regulation allows a maximum of 100 grams of gold jewelry duty-free per passenger annually.

Likewise, while two used mobile phones can still be brought in duty-free, only one new mobile phone can be imported per year without customs charges.

These changes aim to streamline customs processes and reduce misuse of baggage privileges while still allowing returning residents to bring personal items and gifts for their families. Travelers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the new regulations before arriving in the Bangladesh.