The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has introduced the Customs Risk Management Regulations, 2025 to tackle economic risks such as money laundering, terrorism financing, customs evasion, and transnational financial crimes.
As part of this initiative, a Customs Risk Management Commissionerate (CRMC) will be established to oversee risk assessment and mitigation. The CRMC will collect, analyze, and review risk-related information from national and international sources to categorize customs risks effectively.
Using artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced data analysis, the CRMC will classify goods consignments into risk-based lanes—Red, Yellow, Blue, or Green—to enhance customs surveillance. It will also maintain and update online risk registers and conduct surveys to assess economic conditions, customs duties, trade agreements, and market trends that impact customs policies.
The CRMC will have the authority to collect and analyze data from government agencies, financial institutions, banks, and import-export entities while maintaining strict confidentiality. It will also collaborate with national and international organizations to exchange intelligence on border trade risks.
To improve customs control, the CRMC will implement the Automated Risk Management System (ARMS) or other electronic systems to assess risks related to cargo, passengers, agents, and financial transactions. It may also adopt international best practices, including the World Customs Organization Risk Management Model, to establish a robust risk assessment framework.
Additionally, the CRMC will prepare annual evaluation reports to monitor the effectiveness of its risk management strategies and ensure the efficiency of the customs selectivity system.
By strengthening risk-based customs control, the new regulations aim to safeguard Bangladesh’s economy, prevent financial crimes, and enhance trade security.
