How is gold priced in Bangladesh and what is the vori unit?

Gold in Bangladesh is priced in Bangladeshi Taka (BDT) per bhori or vori. One bhori (also called vori) equals 11.664 grams - the same as the Indian tola. However, Bangladesh has a unique market convention: gold is often quoted per bhori rather than per gram, and the standard bhori rate applies to 22 karat (916) gold. To get the per-gram price, divide the bhori rate by 11.664. The Bangladesh Jewellers Association (BAJUS) publishes a daily reference rate that most Dhaka shops follow. For example, if BAJUS quotes 85,000 BDT per bhori, the per-gram price for 22K gold is approximately 7,287 BDT. For 21K (875), multiply by 0.875/0.916 = 0.955, giving roughly 6,960 BDT per gram. The KaratWorth Bangladesh Gold Calculator handles these conversions automatically.

What is the difference between vori, bhori, and ana in Bangladesh?

Vori and bhori are the same unit in Bangladesh - both equal 11.664 grams. The term 'vori' is more commonly used in rural areas and by older generations, while 'bhori' is the formal term used in Dhaka markets and by BAJUS. One bhori is divided into 16 ana, and each ana equals approximately 0.729 grams. This subdivision is important because traditional Bengali jewelry weights are often described in ana rather than grams. For example, a light necklace might be described as '8 ana' (5.83g) and a heavy bridal set as '32 ana' (23.33g). When buying gold in Bangladesh, always confirm whether the quoted price is per bhori/vori or per gram, as the difference is significant (11.664x). Some unscrupulous sellers may quote per gram while buyers assume per bhori. The KaratWorth calculator supports both units to prevent confusion.

What gold purity is standard in Bangladesh: 21K or 22K?

22 karat (916) is the legal standard for gold jewelry in Bangladesh, but 21 karat (875) is extremely common and often preferred for intricate designs. The Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution (BSTI) mandates that all gold jewelry must meet the stated purity, with 22K being the benchmark. However, 21K jewelry is widely sold because the additional alloy (12.5% vs 8.4%) makes the gold harder and more suitable for detailed Bengali filigree work, nakshi patterns, and stone settings. Bridal jewelry in Bangladesh often combines multiple purities: the main body may be 22K while decorative elements with stones use 21K or 18K. When buying, always verify the purity stamp and ask for a BSTI or BAJUS certificate for high-value purchases. The resale value of 22K is higher than 21K, so if you're buying primarily for investment, insist on 22K.

How do taxes affect gold prices in Bangladesh?

Gold in Bangladesh attracts several layers of taxation. Import duty on gold is approximately 10-12%, depending on government policy changes. VAT (Value Added Tax) of 5% applies to jewelry purchases. Additionally, there is a 5% regulatory duty and a 3% supplementary duty on gold imports, which collectively add roughly 20-25% to the international gold price before retail markup. For a 1 bhori (11.664g) piece of 22K gold with an international value of $850 (approx. 93,500 BDT), the retail price in Dhaka might be 115,000-125,000 BDT after all duties, retailer margin, and making charges. Importing gold personally (within duty-free limits) can sometimes be cheaper: Bangladeshi citizens can bring 100g of gold jewelry duty-free when returning from abroad, and 200g of gold bars/coins. Always keep purchase receipts when importing to prove the source and avoid customs issues.

Is the BAJUS gold rate reliable and how does it work?

BAJUS (Bangladesh Jewellers Association) publishes a daily reference gold rate that serves as the unofficial benchmark for Bangladesh's gold market. Every morning around 10 AM, BAJUS announces the per-bhori rate for 22K gold based on international spot prices and the USD/BDT exchange rate. While BAJUS rates are not legally binding, approximately 80% of Dhaka jewelers follow them closely, with minor variations of 500-1,000 BDT per bhori between shops. The BAJUS rate provides transparency and prevents extreme price gouging. However, the rate does not include making charges, which are negotiated separately. Some jewelers may advertise their prices as matching the BAJUS rate but add hidden fees. Always ask for the complete breakdown: BAJUS gold rate multiplied by weight in bhori plus making charges plus VAT. The BAJUS rate is updated daily on their website and through local media, making it easy for consumers to verify before visiting shops.

Where should I buy gold in Bangladesh for the best price?

For the best gold prices in Bangladesh, Gulistan in Dhaka is the primary destination. This wholesale hub with 500+ shops offers the most competitive rates in the country. Intense competition means prices are typically 2-5% lower than suburban shops. Chawkbazar (Old Dhaka) offers the best selection of traditional Bengali designs but requires strong Bengali language skills and comfort with aggressive bargaining. New Market shops provide fixed-price transparency but at slightly higher rates. For rural buyers, Rajshahi and Sylhet have adequate selection with Dhaka-comparable prices plus small transport premiums. Online gold platforms are emerging in Bangladesh but are not yet mainstream - most buyers still prefer in-person inspection. When buying in Dhaka, visit 3-4 shops in Gulistan before deciding, compare their rates against the BAJUS benchmark, and always verify the purity with the shop's testing equipment.

How much gold can I bring into Bangladesh without paying customs duty?

Bangladesh customs allows travelers to bring gold within specific duty-free limits: 100 grams of gold jewelry per passenger (any purity) without duty. 200 grams of gold bars or coins per passenger (investment gold) without duty. Amounts exceeding these limits require declaration and payment of import duties (approximately 10-12% + supplementary taxes). For returning Bangladeshi residents who have lived abroad for over 6 months, the allowance may be higher depending on current customs policy. Always carry purchase receipts and certificates of authenticity. Undeclared gold over the limit can be confiscated and subject to fines. The duty-free allowance is per passenger, so a family of four can theoretically bring 400g of jewelry duty-free. However, customs officers may question unusually large quantities, so distribute purchases across family members and keep all documentation organized.

What are the most common gold scams in Bangladesh and how do I avoid them?

Gold scams in Bangladesh are unfortunately common due to limited regulatory enforcement outside major cities. The most frequent scams include: selling 18K or 21K gold stamped as 22K (under-karating), using counterfeit BAJUS certificates, manipulating weighing scales to show higher weight, mixing copper-heavy alloys that look like gold but have lower purity, and selling gold-plated items as solid gold. To protect yourself: always buy from BAJUS-member shops (they display membership certificates), request purity testing with an acid kit or XRF scanner in front of you, verify the weight on your own pocket scale, check for government hallmarks (BSTI marks when available), and avoid 'too cheap to be true' offers. In Dhaka, reputable shops include those in Bashundhara City and New Market. In rural areas, buy only from established family jewelers with long local reputations. Never buy gold from street vendors, unlicensed shops, or online marketplaces without verification mechanisms.

How is gold priced in Bangladesh and what is the vori unit?

Gold in Bangladesh is priced in Bangladeshi Taka (BDT) per bhori or vori. One bhori (also called vori) equals 11.664 grams - the same as the Indian tola. However, Bangladesh has a unique market convention: gold is often quoted per bhori rather than per gram, and the standard bhori rate applies to 22 karat (916) gold. To get the per-gram price, divide the bhori rate by 11.664. The Bangladesh Jewellers Association (BAJUS) publishes a daily reference rate that most Dhaka shops follow. For example, if BAJUS quotes 85,000 BDT per bhori, the per-gram price for 22K gold is approximately 7,287 BDT. For 21K (875), multiply by 0.875/0.916 = 0.955, giving roughly 6,960 BDT per gram. The KaratWorth Bangladesh Gold Calculator handles these conversions automatically.

What is the difference between vori, bhori, and ana in Bangladesh?

Vori and bhori are the same unit in Bangladesh - both equal 11.664 grams. The term 'vori' is more commonly used in rural areas and by older generations, while 'bhori' is the formal term used in Dhaka markets and by BAJUS. One bhori is divided into 16 ana, and each ana equals approximately 0.729 grams. This subdivision is important because traditional Bengali jewelry weights are often described in ana rather than grams. For example, a light necklace might be described as '8 ana' (5.83g) and a heavy bridal set as '32 ana' (23.33g). When buying gold in Bangladesh, always confirm whether the quoted price is per bhori/vori or per gram, as the difference is significant (11.664x). Some unscrupulous sellers may quote per gram while buyers assume per bhori. The KaratWorth calculator supports both units to prevent confusion.

What gold purity is standard in Bangladesh: 21K or 22K?

22 karat (916) is the legal standard for gold jewelry in Bangladesh, but 21 karat (875) is extremely common and often preferred for intricate designs. The Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution (BSTI) mandates that all gold jewelry must meet the stated purity, with 22K being the benchmark. However, 21K jewelry is widely sold because the additional alloy (12.5% vs 8.4%) makes the gold harder and more suitable for detailed Bengali filigree work, nakshi patterns, and stone settings. Bridal jewelry in Bangladesh often combines multiple purities: the main body may be 22K while decorative elements with stones use 21K or 18K. When buying, always verify the purity stamp and ask for a BSTI or BAJUS certificate for high-value purchases. The resale value of 22K is higher than 21K, so if you're buying primarily for investment, insist on 22K.

How do taxes affect gold prices in Bangladesh?

Gold in Bangladesh attracts several layers of taxation. Import duty on gold is approximately 10-12%, depending on government policy changes. VAT (Value Added Tax) of 5% applies to jewelry purchases. Additionally, there is a 5% regulatory duty and a 3% supplementary duty on gold imports, which collectively add roughly 20-25% to the international gold price before retail markup. For a 1 bhori (11.664g) piece of 22K gold with an international value of $850 (approx. 93,500 BDT), the retail price in Dhaka might be 115,000-125,000 BDT after all duties, retailer margin, and making charges. Importing gold personally (within duty-free limits) can sometimes be cheaper: Bangladeshi citizens can bring 100g of gold jewelry duty-free when returning from abroad, and 200g of gold bars/coins. Always keep purchase receipts when importing to prove the source and avoid customs issues.

Is the BAJUS gold rate reliable and how does it work?

BAJUS (Bangladesh Jewellers Association) publishes a daily reference gold rate that serves as the unofficial benchmark for Bangladesh's gold market. Every morning around 10 AM, BAJUS announces the per-bhori rate for 22K gold based on international spot prices and the USD/BDT exchange rate. While BAJUS rates are not legally binding, approximately 80% of Dhaka jewelers follow them closely, with minor variations of 500-1,000 BDT per bhori between shops. The BAJUS rate provides transparency and prevents extreme price gouging. However, the rate does not include making charges, which are negotiated separately. Some jewelers may advertise their prices as matching the BAJUS rate but add hidden fees. Always ask for the complete breakdown: BAJUS gold rate multiplied by weight in bhori plus making charges plus VAT. The BAJUS rate is updated daily on their website and through local media, making it easy for consumers to verify before visiting shops.

Where should I buy gold in Bangladesh for the best price?

For the best gold prices in Bangladesh, Gulistan in Dhaka is the primary destination. This wholesale hub with 500+ shops offers the most competitive rates in the country. Intense competition means prices are typically 2-5% lower than suburban shops. Chawkbazar (Old Dhaka) offers the best selection of traditional Bengali designs but requires strong Bengali language skills and comfort with aggressive bargaining. New Market shops provide fixed-price transparency but at slightly higher rates. For rural buyers, Rajshahi and Sylhet have adequate selection with Dhaka-comparable prices plus small transport premiums. Online gold platforms are emerging in Bangladesh but are not yet mainstream - most buyers still prefer in-person inspection. When buying in Dhaka, visit 3-4 shops in Gulistan before deciding, compare their rates against the BAJUS benchmark, and always verify the purity with the shop's testing equipment.

How much gold can I bring into Bangladesh without paying customs duty?

Bangladesh customs allows travelers to bring gold within specific duty-free limits: 100 grams of gold jewelry per passenger (any purity) without duty. 200 grams of gold bars or coins per passenger (investment gold) without duty. Amounts exceeding these limits require declaration and payment of import duties (approximately 10-12% + supplementary taxes). For returning Bangladeshi residents who have lived abroad for over 6 months, the allowance may be higher depending on current customs policy. Always carry purchase receipts and certificates of authenticity. Undeclared gold over the limit can be confiscated and subject to fines. The duty-free allowance is per passenger, so a family of four can theoretically bring 400g of jewelry duty-free. However, customs officers may question unusually large quantities, so distribute purchases across family members and keep all documentation organized.

What are the most common gold scams in Bangladesh and how do I avoid them?

Gold scams in Bangladesh are unfortunately common due to limited regulatory enforcement outside major cities. The most frequent scams include: selling 18K or 21K gold stamped as 22K (under-karating), using counterfeit BAJUS certificates, manipulating weighing scales to show higher weight, mixing copper-heavy alloys that look like gold but have lower purity, and selling gold-plated items as solid gold. To protect yourself: always buy from BAJUS-member shops (they display membership certificates), request purity testing with an acid kit or XRF scanner in front of you, verify the weight on your own pocket scale, check for government hallmarks (BSTI marks when available), and avoid 'too cheap to be true' offers. In Dhaka, reputable shops include those in Bashundhara City and New Market. In rural areas, buy only from established family jewelers with long local reputations. Never buy gold from street vendors, unlicensed shops, or online marketplaces without verification mechanisms.

Bangladesh Gold Market: Complete Buying Guide 2026

Everything about buying gold in Bangladesh: vori and bhori units, BAJUS rates, Dhaka gold markets, 21K vs 22K, taxes, and how to get the best price in BDT.

The Bangladesh Gold Market

Bangladesh consumes approximately 20-30 tonnes of gold annually, making it one of South Asia's significant gold markets despite being smaller than neighboring India. The market is centered in Dhaka, with Gulistan serving as the country's wholesale gold hub and Chawkbazar representing the historic trading tradition.

Unique characteristics of the Bangladesh gold market: gold is priced per bhori/vori (11.664g) rather than per gram, which is the standard in most other countries. The Bangladesh Jewellers Association (BAJUS) sets a daily reference rate that most Dhaka shops follow. 21 karat (875) is as common as 22K (916) due to the preference for harder alloys that support intricate Bengali filigree and nakshi designs. Import duties and taxes add approximately 20-25% to international prices before retail markup.

The market is largely unregulated outside Dhaka, with rural areas relying on family-run jewelers who have served communities for generations. Hallmarking is not as widespread as India's BIS system, though BSTI (Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution) marks are increasingly common in branded shops. Consumer protection is weaker than in India or the UAE, making buyer vigilance essential.

Gold Markets Across Bangladesh

Gulistan (Dhaka)

Wholesale hub

Bangladesh's largest gold market with 500+ shops. Prices set the benchmark for the entire country. Best for bulk purchases and competitive rates.

Chawkbazar (Old Dhaka)

Traditional bazaar

Historic gold trading area with family-run shops. Known for intricate Bengali designs and 21K bridal sets. Negotiation is expected.

New Market (Dhaka)

Retail center

Mid-range retail shops with fixed prices. Better for buyers who prefer transparency over bargaining. Offers BAJUS-certified jewelry.

Chittagong Port Area

Import hub

Shops near the port receive gold imports directly. Sometimes offers slightly lower prices due to reduced transport costs.

Sylhet & Rajshahi

Regional markets

Smaller markets serving local demand. Prices typically match Dhaka rates plus small transport premiums. Limited selection compared to capital.

Understanding Bangladesh Gold Units

Bhori / Vori

The primary weight unit for gold in Bangladesh. 1 bhori = 11.664 grams (same as Indian tola). Prices are typically quoted per bhori for 22K gold. Always confirm whether the price is per bhori or per gram - the difference is 11.6x.

Ana

A subdivision of bhori used for lighter jewelry. 1 bhori = 16 ana, so 1 ana = 0.729 grams. A necklace described as "8 ana" weighs approximately 5.83 grams. Traditional Bengali jewelry weights are often given in ana.

Gram

The international SI unit, increasingly used in modern Dhaka shops and by younger jewelers. When converting from bhori to grams, divide by 11.664. The KaratWorth calculator supports all three units for Bangladesh.

21K vs 22K Gold in Bangladesh

Unlike India where 22K dominates, Bangladesh has a significant market for both 21K and 22K gold, each serving different purposes:

Feature	22K (916)	21K (875)
Pure Gold Content	91.6%	87.5%
Durability	Good	Better (harder alloy)
Best For	Investment, bridal sets	Intricate designs, stone settings
Resale Value	Higher per gram	Lower per gram
Color	Rich yellow	Slightly lighter yellow
Typical Use	Bangles, chains, coins	Filigree, nakshi, temple jewelry

For investment purposes, 22K is superior because it contains more gold per gram. For jewelry with complex designs or gemstone settings, 21K's harder alloy prevents deformation. Many Bangladeshi brides receive a mix: 22K for bangles and chains, 21K for the ornate necklace and earrings.

Bangladesh Gold Market FAQs

Related Calculators

Bangladesh Gold Calculator

Gold price in BDT per vori and gram

Vori to Gram Calculator

Convert vori/bhori to grams

Gold Price Today

Live gold rate in all currencies

India Gold Calculator

Compare with Indian gold rates

This is an estimate based on spot price. Actual buyer offers may vary based on market, fees, condition, purity verification, and dealer margin. Not financial advice, tax advice, religious advice, or an official offer to buy or sell precious metals. Always verify with a qualified professional before making important decisions.