Bangladesh e-commerce market: How to start and make it grow

According to the International Trade Administration, Bangladesh’s e-commerce industry has experienced significant growth since the early 2000s¹. Domestically, there is an increase in local e-commerce activity, with the market expanding every year, as per Statista². A study published in the Journal of Management and Administration Provision attributes this rise to shifting consumer preferences, disruptive technologies, and a rapidly evolving digital landscape³. A key turning point in this transformation was when consumers embraced the convenience of online shopping—bypassing long store lines and enjoying doorstep delivery, which reshaped purchasing behavior across the country.

As the consumer base grows, so does the number of sellers entering the e-commerce space. The continued expansion of Bangladesh’s e-commerce sector presents exciting opportunities for business owners. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or an established company looking to scale your business and expand overseas, understanding the e-commerce landscape is crucial for long-term success.

Overview of Bangladesh’s e-commerce growth

Bangladesh's e-commerce market is rapidly expanding, with more entrepreneurs taking advantage of the Internet to scale their businesses. Key factors driving the impressive growth of Bangladesh's e-commerce sector include:

1. Widespread mobile internet adoption

The growing availability and affordability of mobile Internet have contributed to the expansion of e-commerce in Bangladesh. According to DATAREPORTAL, as of January 2025, Bangladesh had approximately 77.7 million internet users, with an internet penetration rate of 44.5% of the total population⁴. This widespread connectivity has made online shopping and selling more accessible, allowing businesses to reach a broader audience.

2. Young, tech-savvy population

Numerous studies have shown that most Internet users in Bangladesh are individuals in their 20s. In a study published in ResearchLeap, researchers found that those with a monthly income of Tk10,000 to Tk20,000 were more likely to engage in e-commerce⁵. This demographic is highly active online, embraces digital trends, and prefers the convenience of e-commerce.

3. Expansion of mobile financial services (MFS) and digital payments

For exporters, MFS has also streamlined cross-border transactions, making it easier to engage with overseas customers. With integrated digital wallets and mobile banking options, businesses can offer secure, real-time payment solutions, reducing reliance on costly and time-consuming bank transfers. As global e-commerce expands, embracing digital payment systems will be key to scaling an export business in Bangladesh while enhancing customer trust and convenience.

E-commerce trends that businesses in Bangladesh should know

To successfully grow your e-commerce business in Bangladesh, staying informed about the latest market trends is crucial. As digital adoption continues to rise and consumer behaviors evolve, businesses must adapt to these shifts to remain competitive.

1. The rise of cross-border shopping

Cross-border e-commerce is gaining momentum worldwide, presenting Bangladeshi businesses with new opportunities to sell beyond local markets. As global consumers seek unique, high-quality, and cost-effective products, many are turning to international marketplaces for better choices. This shift is creating a lucrative opening for Bangladeshi exporters to reach buyers in South Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and North America.

2. Mobile commerce on the rise

With mobile devices becoming the primary shopping tool worldwide, mobile commerce (m-commerce) is now a driving force behind e-commerce growth. Consumers are increasingly browsing, comparing, and purchasing products via smartphones, making it crucial for Bangladeshi businesses to optimize their online stores for mobile experiences.

3. The rise of sustainability

Sustainability has transitioned from a passing trend to a key business strategy for brands looking to build consumer trust and stay competitive in global markets. As environmental awareness grows, more consumers are prioritizing businesses that embrace eco-friendly business practices.

Tips on how to grow your e-commerce business in Bangladesh

Growing and expanding your e-commerce operations in Bangladesh requires strategic planning and a deep understanding of the global market and import-export regulations. To start scaling your operations and enter international markets, you must improve your business model, logistics, and compliance strategies. These are key ways how to grow your e-commerce business and export your products overseas.

1. Understand your legal and tax obligations

Before exporting your products, it is essential to understand the legal and tax regulations associated with international trade. Customs duties, VAT, import/export restrictions, and required documentation vary by destination country, and failure to comply can result in delays, fines, or shipment rejections.

For businesses in Bangladesh, registering with the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) and obtaining the necessary trade licenses and export permits is a key step. Additionally, staying informed about bilateral trade agreements can help you reduce tariffs and streamline cross-border transactions. Seeking guidance from legal and trade experts ensures that your business operates smoothly in global markets.

2. Plan your transportation logistics

Efficient transportation and shipping services are crucial for e-commerce businesses looking to expand internationally. Managing logistics effectively ensures that products reach customers on time, enhancing customer satisfaction and brand reputation. However, navigating the complexities of international shipping, including customs regulations, import duties, and cross-border documentation, can be challenging. To streamline this process, businesses must carefully plan their supply chain, warehouse management, and last-mile delivery solutions. Thoroughly planning a comprehensive logistics strategy can potentially help with reducing transit times, minimizing shipping costs, and preventing unnecessary delays that may impact customer trust.

3. Adopt eco-friendly shipping practices

One way to minimize the environmental impact in the supply chain is by using biodegradable or recyclable packaging materials, such as paper-based fillers, compostable mailers, and reusable boxes. Additionally, opting for minimalist packaging—which uses fewer materials without compromising protection—can lower shipping costs while supporting sustainability goals.

Beyond packaging, partnering with logistics providers that offer sustainable shipping solutions can further shrink your business’s carbon footprint. Global couriers like DHL Express are leading the way with sustainable shipping initiatives, including the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) for air freight, which significantly reduces emissions. By integrating green logistics solutions, businesses can meet evolving sustainability standards, attract eco-conscious consumers, and gain a competitive advantage in international markets.

Shipping with DHL Express to expand your e-commerce business

If you want to start scaling your business and export to other countries, seamless and reliable international shipping services are essential. Partnering with DHL Express gives your business a competitive edge by ensuring fast, efficient, and hassle-free cross-border logistics. With a strong global network, DHL Express provides tailored shipping solutions designed to help businesses in Bangladesh navigate complex customs regulations, ensuring smooth clearance of parcels and minimizing shipping delays.

Take your e-commerce business to the next level by partnering with a globally trusted logistics provider—open a business account with DHL Express today.