Importing seed into Bangladesh: the import permit process step by step

26 October 2026 · 2 min read · Krishoker Thikana desk

Bangladesh relies heavily on imported seed. According to a seed-security explainer in The Business Standard, about 90–95% of hybrid maize seed, 80–90% of oilseed seed, around 80% of pulse seed, 75–80% of jute seed and around 60% of vegetable seed is imported. Most rice seed is produced at home.

Where the seed comes from

The same report names India, Thailand and the United States as the main sources of imported maize seed, and India as the main source of imported jute seed. The seed associations of China, Thailand, India and Indonesia listed in this directory are good starting points for finding suppliers.

Who approves an import

• Seed Wing, Ministry of Agriculture: its approval must accompany your permit application.
• Plant Quarantine Wing (PQW), Department of Agricultural Extension: issues the import permit and inspects the consignment.
• Seed Certification Agency: tests and certifies seed quality.

The permit process

1. Get Seed Wing approval for the variety and quantity.
2. Apply to the PQW for an import permit before you open the letter of credit, giving the product type, quantity, country of origin, intended use and any treatment.
3. The permit is reportedly issued within about a week.
4. Import only through a designated point of entry.
5. The permit is valid for 4 months, and can be extended by up to 2 months on request.
6. Expect inspection on arrival, and possibly post-entry quarantine, before release.

Rules change, so confirm every step with the Plant Quarantine Wing before you place an order. The legal basis is the Plant Quarantine Act 2011 and the Plant Quarantine Rules 2018.

Protecting farmers from bad seed

Fake or poor seed is one of the most common farmer complaints. Buy from registered dealers, keep the packet and the receipt, and report suspect seed to the Seed Certification Agency or your Upazila agriculture office.