BIDA no longer exists as a separate body. Since 23 August 2026, its functions sit with Invest Bangladesh under the Invest Bangladesh Act 2026, together with those of the former BEZA and PPP Authority. Many private projects, including those with foreign investment, are expected to register with Invest Bangladesh, but the position depends on the activity and location. Projects in export processing zones fall under BEPZA, and hi-tech park projects under the Hi-Tech Park Authority. Earlier registrations generally continue, but amendments now go to the new authority. Because guidance is still being issued, we check current requirements before filing anything.

In many sectors, yes. Bangladesh generally permits full foreign ownership of private companies, and there is no general requirement for a local partner. However, some activities are reserved or subject to ownership caps, licensing conditions or regulator approval, for example certain financial services, telecommunications, media and security-sensitive activities. Sector rules change, so we confirm the current position with the relevant regulator rather than rely on older lists. Even where full ownership is allowed, the company must meet the minimum number of shareholders and directors under the Companies Act 1994, and any nominee shareholding needs careful documentation for banks.

Equity capital is normally remitted through the banking system to the company's account with an authorised dealer bank, which issues documentation such as an encashment certificate confirming the inward remittance. Share allotments should match the funds received, and the records should be kept carefully because they support later dividends and repatriation. Shareholder loans follow separate approval and reporting rules, and interest paid to non-residents is subject to withholding tax, which the Finance Act 2026 reduced to 10% from 20%. Capital in kind, such as imported machinery, raises its own valuation and customs questions. We map these steps before money moves.

Yes, subject to the foreign exchange rules and tax. Dividends from a Bangladeshi company to foreign shareholders can generally be remitted through the company's authorised dealer bank once tax has been withheld and the required documents are produced. Repatriating sale proceeds or capital on exit typically involves valuation, tax clearance and Bangladesh Bank processes, which can take time. Problems often trace back to gaps in the original inward remittance or share records, which are difficult to cure later. We review those records early and plan exits so that the foreign investment can be realised without avoidable delay or dispute.

There is no single timeframe, because each foreign investment depends on the structure, the sector and the documents available from the parent company. Incorporation with the Registrar of Joint Stock Companies and Firms can move relatively quickly once notarised and legalised documents are ready, but bank account opening, inward remittance, project registration, licences and work permits each add time. Sector licences can take considerably longer than the corporate steps. Invest Bangladesh is still settling into its new role, so service times may change. We prepare a realistic plan that shows dependencies before leases, hiring and imports are committed.

The Foreign Private Investment (Promotion and Protection) Act 1980 provides statutory protections, including against expropriation without compensation and for repatriation, and it was not repealed by the Invest Bangladesh Act 2026. Bangladesh's bilateral investment treaties may give qualifying investors further protection and access to international arbitration against the state. Contracts with partners and state bodies can also include arbitration clauses under the Arbitration Act 2001. Which protections apply depends on the investor's nationality, the holding structure and the contract terms. We advise on these protections at the structuring stage and on remedies when disputes arise, including notice and cooling-off steps.

Many do. Banking, insurance, non-bank finance, payment services, telecommunications, broadcasting, power, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, education and recruitment are examples of activities with their own regulator and licence, and some impose ownership, capital or local management conditions. Registration with Invest Bangladesh does not replace these licences, and the regulator may expect the company to exist before it applies. A foreign investment plan should therefore show which licences are needed, which can be applied for in parallel, and which conditions affect the shareholding or board. We confirm these points with the regulator before the structure is finalised.

Yes, but changes need planning. Transferring shares to a new owner, moving the holding company to another jurisdiction, merging group entities or converting a branch into a subsidiary may each require prior permission from Invest Bangladesh or a sector regulator, bank reporting, valuation and tax clearance. Where non-residents are involved, the price and payment route must satisfy Bangladesh Bank and the authorised dealer bank. Restructuring a foreign investment can also affect incentives, licences and treaty protection. We review the existing approvals and records first, then sequence the steps so that the business keeps operating while the change is made.