NN Online:
Commerce Adviser Sk Bashir Uddin on Monday termed the recent tariff negotiations with the United States “encouraging” and “highly engaging,” while refraining from disclosing specifics due to a Non-Disclosure Agreement.
Returning from the three-day talks held from July 9–11 in Washington, Bashir briefed reporters at the Commerce Ministry, highlighting discussions with 35–40 U.S. representatives aimed at securing fairer tariffs for Bangladesh’s $8.69 billion export market—especially the apparel sector.
“We received valuable suggestions that we intend to act on,” he said, calling the exchanges constructive. Asked what tariff rate Bangladesh considers reasonable, he quipped, “Zero.”
On the re-imposition of a 35% countervailing duty from August 1, Bashir expressed confidence in negotiating a just outcome. “Bangladeshi businesses have competed fairly in the U.S. since 2015, without preferential treatment—we want that to continue.”
He declined to comment on any U.S. conditions related to trade with China, citing confidentiality.
Bashir also announced plans for a third round of negotiations next week, following inter-ministerial consultations and meetings with leading business figures and economists. These included Dr Masrur Riaz (Policy Exchange), Dr Selim Raihan (SANEM), Dr Mohammad Abdur Razzaque (RAPID), and Dr Mustafa Abid Khan (ERD), along with representatives from FBCCI, BKMEA, DCCI, MCCI, BCIC, and LFMEAB.
BKMEA President Mohammad Hatem expressed optimism, saying the government is prioritizing exporters’ concerns.
Commerce Secretary Mahbubur Rahman, also present, stressed efforts to mitigate tariff burdens and protect the country’s export competitiveness—especially in light of the U.S. accounting for 18% of Bangladesh’s $48.28 billion exports in FY25.
Despite concerns following the July 7 tariff hike that pushed total duties over 50%, Bashir dismissed talk of frustration: “Those are old grievances. There’s no frustration now.”
As Bangladesh readies for the next round of talks, hopes remain high for a balanced and mutually beneficial trade deal.
