From 20 to 24 April 2025, the World Customs Organization (WCO), with financial support from the Customs Cooperation Fund/Japan (CCF/Japan), successfully conducted the first WCO National Workshop on Rules of Origin for the National Board of Revenue (NBR) of Bangladesh in Dhaka. This activity represented a pivotal step in enhancing the technical knowledge and operational competencies of Bangladesh Customs in correctly applying rules of origin, especially as the country prepares to graduate from Least Developed Country (LDC) status in November 2026. The workshop was designed to ensure that Bangladesh is well-equipped to navigate ongoing and future trade negotiations with its partner states.

In his opening remarks, Mr. Kazi Mostafizur Rahman, Member (Customs Audit, Modernization, and International Trade) of the NBR, underscored the strategic importance of efficient origin procedures. He emphasized that effective origin management is vital to supporting trade competitiveness, preserving preferential market access, and facilitating Bangladesh’s seamless integration into the global economy post-LDC graduation. Mr. Rahman expressed sincere gratitude to the WCO and the CCF/Japan for their continued support and commitment to the success of this initiative.

Over five intensive days, 25 mid- to senior-level Customs officials from across Bangladesh participated in an engaging, hands-on training programme. Designed to bridge technical expertise with real-world application, the workshop addressed key topics, including origin determination, preferential and non-preferential rules of origin, advance rulings, certification and verification procedures, and best practices for addressing origin irregularities. It also emphasized the importance of optimizing the use of preferential trade arrangements by the private sector.

Through expert-led presentations, practical case studies, scenario-based simulations, and interactive group discussions, participants deepened their understanding and built the confidence to manage complex origin-related tasks effectively.

At the close of the workshop, Mr. Kazi Mostafizur Rahman praised the participants for their dedication, professionalism, and active engagement, and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to continuing the modernization of Customs infrastructure, particularly in rules of origin.

Reflecting on the achievements of the five-day workshop, he encouraged participants to share their experiences, challenge approaches, and build collaboration across units. A key goal of the workshop was to strengthen these officials to disseminate the knowledge gained during the workshop to a broader group of Bangladesh Customs staff, promoting the consistent and effective implementation of origin procedures within their respective Customs units.

For more information, please contact: ori@wcoomd.org