The Bangladesh Standards & Testing Institution (BSTI) runs mandatory certification for more than 200 products, including many food items, cosmetics and toiletries and electrical goods such as electric kettles, circuit breakers and cables. Imported consignments of listed products need BSTI testing and clearance, and a marking fee is charged on the import (CIF) value.
BSTI at a Glance
| Authority | Bangladesh Standards & Testing Institution (BSTI) |
|---|---|
| Countries | Bangladesh |
| Mark | BDS / BSTI mark |
| Requirement | Mandatory |
| Typical timeline | Varies – ask us |
| Validity | Varies – ask us |
| Local representative | Yes – Bangladeshi importer applies |
Products We Commonly Support
- Food products
- Milk powder & infant formula
- Cosmetics & toiletries
- Electric kettles
- Circuit breakers
- Cables
- Cement
- Steel products
- Vacuum flasks
How Global Approbation Handles BSTI
- Step 1. Check whether your product is on BSTI's current mandatory list and identify the Bangladesh Standard (BDS).
- Step 2. The Bangladeshi importer applies to BSTI with the import documents for the consignment.
- Step 3. BSTI draws samples and tests them against the BDS.
- Step 4. On passing, BSTI issues the clearance certificate and the marking fee is paid on the CIF value.
- Step 5. For regular exports, align your formulation, labelling and test data with the BDS to avoid failed consignments.
Documents Required
- Import registration certificate, trade licence and TIN of the importer
- Letter of credit, invoice, packing list and bill of lading
- Country-of-origin certificate
- Health / radiation certificates for food items
- Product labels meeting Bangladesh labelling rules
BSTI: Frequently Asked Questions
Is BSTI mandatory in Bangladesh?
Yes. More than 200 products are under BSTI's mandatory certification list. Imported consignments of listed products need BSTI testing and clearance, and the marking fee is charged on the import (CIF) value.
Which products need BSTI?
Typical products include Food products, Milk powder & infant formula, Cosmetics & toiletries, Electric kettles, Circuit breakers, Cables, Cement, Steel products and Vacuum flasks. Coverage follows the regulator's current list and HS codes, so we confirm it for your exact product.
Does a foreign manufacturer need a local representative for BSTI?
Yes – Bangladeshi importer applies. Global Approbation coordinates with your importer or arranges a representative where needed.
How long does BSTI take and how long is it valid?
Typical timeline: Varies – ask us. Validity: Varies – ask us. Share your product details for a realistic plan and cost.
Who applies for BSTI clearance – the exporter or the importer?
The Bangladeshi importer applies for clearance of each consignment, but the exporter's product data, labels and test reports decide whether it passes, so we prepare those in advance.
Regulations, standards and deadlines change. Scope, testing route and timelines are confirmed product by product after our applicability review. Global Approbation is a consultancy and does not itself issue certificates; approvals are granted by the relevant authority, accredited laboratory or certification body.