Bangladesh's air import lanes: Navigating key gateways for businesses

The critical role of air imports in Bangladesh's economy

Air imports are critical to Bangladesh’s dynamic economy. Efficient air logistics are indispensable, keeping fast-paced sectors like just-in-time manufacturing and urgent e-commerce fulfillment operational. This role is powerfully underscored by the sheer volume of air cargo handled: 83.7 million tons were transported through Bangladesh's airports in 2023 alone, supporting the country’s total import and export volumes¹.

Air transport is heavily relied upon for various goods. Time-sensitive items like perishables, critical spare parts, essential samples, and medical supplies depend on air cargo shipping for timely arrival. Similarly, air shipment is optimal for high-value goods like sophisticated electronics, luxury items, and heavy machinery, where speed outweighs cost.

Furthermore, Bangladesh's burgeoning e-commerce sector relies on rapid inventory replenishment from global sellers, making swift air imports indispensable. Industries crucial to the economy — including Readymade Garments (RMG), pharmaceuticals, and electronics² — specifically depend on air cargo reliability. Delays in these sectors can severely disrupt production and erode market competitiveness, highlighting the non-negotiable importance of efficient air import lanes for Bangladesh's economic stability and growth.

Key air import lanes and their origins

These routes represent the most critical inbound air corridors to Bangladesh:

China & East Asia

Originating from countries like China, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and Thailand, this air import lane serves as a core supply channel for electronics, raw materials, textiles, and a vast array of consumer goods essential for Bangladesh's manufacturing and retail sectors³. Effective logistics here requires efficient scheduling, meticulous customs preparedness, and seamless connectivity with Asia’s top air hubs.

Europe

This import lane originates from major European nations, including Germany, the UK, Italy, France, and the Netherlands. It serves as a primary source of high-value pharmaceuticals, specialized equipment, and luxury items crucial for various Bangladeshi industries. Importers should note that air shipments from Europe must comply with ICS2 (Import Control System 2) requirements to ensure smooth customs processing⁴.

North America

Connecting from countries like the USA and Canada, this air import lane is significant for the supply of high-tech goods, precision components, and essential medical equipment⁵. Long-haul air shipping routes from North America demand robust air-to-ground coordination and unwavering transit reliability to ensure timely delivery of critical freight.

Bangladesh's air import gateways: The crucial airports

Efficient gateway infrastructure is vital to air import success. These are Bangladesh’s most important air cargo hubs:

Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA), Dhaka

HSIA is Bangladesh’s busiest airport and dominates the country’s air freight landscape. It handles approximately 96% of all air freight, processing a daily average of 400-500 tons and around 285,000 tons annually^6. Ongoing expansion efforts, notably the upcoming third terminal, are set to significantly increase cargo capacity from around 200,000 tons to an impressive 500,000 tons per year⁷, further solidifying its role as a key import lane.

Shah Amanat International Airport, Chattogram

Shah Amanat is the country’s second-largest international airport, currently handling approximately 6,000 tons of cargo annually⁸, a volume considerably less than HSIA. However, development plans, including authorities planning to restart dedicated cargo flights, signal a strategic move to decentralize and expand regional logistical capacity. This will establish it as an increasingly important air import lane for the southern region.

Osmani International Airport, Sylhet

Osmani airport in Sylhet is emerging as a significant regional cargo hub. The Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh confirmed that Sylhet’s Osmani airport will launch dedicated cargo services, backed by EU-approved certification (Regulated Agent Third Country, RA3)⁹, serving as a vital regional supplement to Dhaka. Ongoing infrastructure upgrades, including new cargo terminals and scanner installations, are enabling regular freighter operations, enhancing its capacity as a key air import lane.

Navigating common air import challenges

Importing cargo by air offers unparalleled speed, but it comes with its own set of complexities. Businesses must be prepared to navigate common challenges to ensure smooth operations:

• Documentation: Ensuring all paperwork is accurate and complete is paramount. This includes the Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Air Waybill (AWB), Certificate of Origin (COO), Import Permit, Letter of Credit (LC), and correct Harmonized System (HS) codes. Inaccurate or missing documents can lead to significant delays.
• Duties & Taxes: Importers must factor in various levies:
  • VAT: 15%
  • Advance Income Tax (AIT): 5%
  • Supplementary Duty: Applies to specific product categories.
• Restricted/Prohibited Goods: Always cross-check official lists of restricted or prohibited goods carefully before air shipment to avoid legal issues and confiscation.
• Airport Congestion & Clearance Delays: High volumes at airports and complex clearance procedures can cause bottlenecks. Early submission of accurate documents and proactive pre-arrival coordination with customs officials or a freight forwarding company in Bangladesh can help avoid these delays.

Powering your business growth through seamless air imports with DHL Express BD

Efficient management of air import lanes in Bangladesh is vital for businesses working with tight production schedules, high-value shipments, or fast e-commerce cycles. This is precisely where DHL Express Bangladesh stands out as your ideal import lane partner.

With decades of experience and a dedicated infrastructure, DHL offers door-to-door express import solutions specifically tailored to Bangladesh’s unique business landscape. As a leading international shipping provider in Bangladesh, we ensure your air imports arrive fast, safely, and in full compliance. From expert customs clearance to real-time visibility via MyDHL+, DHL Express provides the reliable air cargo import service your business needs, acting as your trusted package courier for seamless deliveries.

Want to streamline your air imports and elevate your import-export game across Asia and beyond? Shipping with DHL is the smart choice. Open a DHL business account today and experience peace of mind.