Includes typical use of agents and distributors and how to find a good partner, e.g., whether use of an agent or distributor is legally required.
Last Published: 12/10/2018

U.S. companies may appoint a Bangladeshi firm or individual as an exclusive or non-exclusive agent or distributor.  The local agent should be reputable, imaginative, active, politically astute, and technically competent.  A local agent may be authorized to service industrial consumers, to bid on government tenders, and to place orders or book indent orders.

U.S. exporters are cautioned to carefully screen any potential agents working on their behalf.  The U.S. Embassy's experience suggests that a significant proportion of local agents do not adhere to U.S. standards of business ethics.  Many local agents admit to having paid bribes and using undue influence to get a contract awarded in public procurement.  Companies need to exercise caution when hiring local agents and thoroughly educate them about acceptable business practices.  Companies should monitor local agents’ activities closely.  Personal interviews are useful in discussing a business proposal with a potential agent or distributor.  Close political ties with the current government do not automatically guarantee success, as new governments have delayed or re-tendered deals approved by their predecessors. 

U.S. firms looking for agents or distributors in Bangladesh may wish to contact a district Department of Commerce office or the U.S. Trade Center in Dhaka (ustc-dhaka@state.gov) to discuss fee-based commercial services that can assist in identifying and evaluating potential business partners.  These services include:  the International Partner Search (IPS) service providing a list of pre-screened companies with experience in different fields; the International Company Profile (ICP) service providing background information on a specific company, including sales and after-sales capabilities, as well as bank and trade references; and the Gold Key Service (GKS) providing full-service support to U.S. companies including U.S. Embassy briefings, scheduling of meetings with local firms and logistical support for visiting U.S. companies.  Details on these services are available The United States Embassy in Bangladesh Business Website.
 

Prepared by our U.S. Embassies abroad. With its network of 108 offices across the United States and in more than 75 countries, the U.S. Commercial Service of the U.S. Department of Commerce utilizes its global presence and international marketing expertise to help U.S. companies sell their products and services worldwide. Locate the U.S. Commercial Service trade specialist in the U.S. nearest you by visiting http://export.gov/usoffices.