Interim govt publishes key terms of US trade deal

The interim government has released selected provisions of a reciprocal trade agreement with the United States, confirming a reduction of retaliatory tariffs on Bangladeshi goods from 20% to 19% after nine months of negotiations.

In a statement issued on Sunday (February 15), the government said the talks followed US Executive Order 14257, which imposed tariffs on several countries, including Bangladesh, in April 2025.

Under the deal, Bangladesh will receive zero-duty access for about 2,500 products in the US market. In return, Dhaka has agreed to phased tariff cuts on 7,132 US tariff lines, with most becoming duty-free immediately or within five to 10 years.

The agreement covers trade facilitation, investment, e-commerce, labour, environment and intellectual property, among other areas.

A special provision grants zero-duty access for garments made with US-origin cotton and synthetic fibres.

The draft also notes plans to increase imports from the US, including Boeing aircraft, LNG, LPG and agricultural products. An exit clause allows either party to withdraw from the agreement if necessary.

The government said the deal is expected to support exports, investment and economic growth.