Bangladesh Prepares for Third Round of Tariff Talks with US: Trade Adviser Hopes for "Reasonable" Tariffs

Bangladesh is gearing up for a third round of discussions with the United States regarding reciprocal tariffs. Trade Adviser Sheikh Bashiruddin shared this information at a press conference in Dhaka yesterday, Monday (July 14). He expressed hope that the US would set "reasonable" tariffs for Bangladesh, allowing the country to continue its trade in the US market based on its capabilities.

Trade Adviser Sheikh Bashiruddin held the press conference after returning home from tariff discussions in the United States. The second round of these tariff talks concluded on July 11 in Washington D.C., the capital of the United States.

At the press conference, the adviser stated that Bangladesh has a non-disclosure agreement with the United States on this matter. Therefore, he could not disclose details of what the US sought or what was discussed.

Commerce Secretary Mahbubur Rahman commented that reciprocal tariffs would be a "significant blow" to Bangladesh. For this reason, the government is working at the highest level to address the issue. Some work has already been completed, with more still to be done. He also mentioned that they have consulted with stakeholders to gather their opinions and preparations are underway. Bangladesh is ready to participate in any future discussions proposed by the United States.

It is worth noting that on April 2, the United States imposed reciprocal tariffs on various countries worldwide. When this had a negative impact on global trade, these tariffs were suspended until July 9 on April 7. Meanwhile, on July 8, US President Donald Trump, in a letter to Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, announced a 35% tariff on Bangladeshi imports, set to take effect from August 1.

During this period, various countries have reached bilateral agreements through discussions with the United States. Bangladesh is also attempting to secure a bilateral agreement. To this end, a delegation led by the Trade Adviser has held several meetings with the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR). However, Bangladesh and the US have not yet agreed on all issues in these meetings.

Before briefing reporters, Trade Adviser Sheikh Bashiruddin held a meeting with prominent business leaders and economists of the country. Among those present were Mahmud Hasan Khan Babu, President of BGMEA (Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association), Mohammad Hatem, President of BKMEA (Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association), and Anwarul Alam Chowdhury Parvez, President of Bangladesh Chamber of Industries.