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Foreign digital platforms such as Facebook, YouTube and Google will not be allowed to run new online advertisements in Bangladesh without obtaining a Digital Business Identity (DBID) registration, according to the draft Cross-Border Digital Commerce Policy 2026 released by the Ministry of Commerce.
The draft also requires foreign digital businesses selling products or services in Bangladesh to obtain DBID registration and comply with the country’s VAT, income tax and other relevant laws.
The ministry has invited feedback from stakeholders and the public on the draft until August 6. After reviewing the suggestions, the final draft will be sent to the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs.
Officials said the policy was drafted to ensure transparency, accountability and proper revenue collection from the rapidly expanding digital advertising and e-commerce sectors.
Under the proposed rules, foreign digital platforms must complete registration before conducting any commercial activities in Bangladesh, including online retail sales through social media platforms.
Once implemented, platforms including Meta, Google and YouTube will be barred from promoting new advertisements without proper registration.
However, registered platforms will be allowed to advertise legally imported products and services while following government regulations.
The policy aims to connect Bangladesh’s digital businesses with global markets, support micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), improve digital export opportunities and strengthen coordination among agencies including the Ministry of Commerce, Bangladesh Bank and the National Board of Revenue (NBR).
The draft also proposes support for digital exports, modern parcel-based export facilities, insurance services, faster payment systems and cross-border escrow services.
It prohibits the sale of counterfeit, adulterated or fraudulent products through digital platforms, as well as online gambling, betting, lotteries and misleading advertisements.
The policy also includes stronger consumer protection measures, requiring sellers to provide clear information on after-sales services, refunds, returns, warranties and guarantees.
Disputes related to digital commerce would be handled through improved digital complaint systems and alternative dispute resolution (ADR) mechanisms.