How to Verify a Bangladesh Supplier: 7-Point Checklist
Before placing an order with a Bangladesh supplier, verify these 7 critical points: ERC, association membership, certifications, factory audit, financial stability, samples, and references.
How to Verify a Bangladesh Supplier: Complete 7-Point Checklist
Verifying a supplier in Bangladesh is the single most important step before committing to any purchase order. With over 4,275 BGMEA-registered factories, distinguishing legitimate manufacturers from trading companies requires a systematic approach. This checklist has been developed based on real-world sourcing experience and BGMEA compliance standards.
1. Verify EPB Registration (ERC)
Every legitimate exporter must hold a valid Export Registration Certificate (ERC) from the EPB. Verify online at edb.epb.gov.bd by entering the ERC number. Red flags: ERC expired, not found, or product categories don't match.
2. Check BGMEA/BKMEA Membership
For garment suppliers, verify membership at bgmea.com.bd/page/member-list or bkmea.com. Active members must comply with structural, fire, and electrical safety standards. If a supplier claims membership but isn't in the directory, this is a critical red flag.
3. Request Trade License and TIN
A trade license from the local City Corporation proves legal operation. The TIN confirms tax registration. Both should show the same company name and address. Cross-check the address with the factory address provided.
4. Conduct a Video Factory Tour
Never place a large order without seeing the factory. Request a live video tour via Zoom or WhatsApp. Verify: factory signboard, operational production lines, matching machinery, fire safety equipment visible. A legitimate factory will welcome this; a middleman will make excuses.
5. Check Bank Account Details
The account name should match the company name. Bangladesh requires all export payments through official banking channels. Any request for payment to a personal account or via informal channels (hundi) is a major red flag. Always use L/C for first-time orders.
6. Order Third-Party Inspection
Before shipping, order a pre-shipment inspection from SGS, Intertek, Bureau Veritas, or TUV ($200-500). The inspector verifies product specs, quantity, quality, and packaging against your PO. Never skip this for orders above $5,000.
7. Verify Certifications
For EU: verify BSCI and GOTS. For US: check WRAP. All certifications can be verified online. Bangladesh has 215 LEED-certified factories, 89 GOTS-certified, and 187 OEKO-TEX-certified facilities — a certified factory signals quality commitment.
Conclusion
Supplier verification requires diligence but is straightforward with this 7-point checklist. Bangladesh's export sector generates $48+ billion annually with a proven track record serving H&M, Zara, Walmart, and Tesco. Use BangladeshExport.com's Verify-a-Supplier hub for step-by-step guidance.