US tariff on Bangladesh may be reconsidered, says Finance Adviser

The United States may reconsider the 35 percent tariff currently imposed on Bangladeshi exports, Finance Adviser Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed said on Tuesday.

Speaking to reporters after a meeting of the Government Procurement Advisory Committee at the Secretariat, Dr. Ahmed noted that discussions are scheduled to take place on Wednesday (July 9) between the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) and Bangladesh’s Trade Advisor, during which the tariff issue will be addressed.

“There is room to revisit the tariff structure. Direct discussions with the U.S. government could lead to a reduction,” he said.

Dr. Ahmed questioned the justification for the existing tariff rate, highlighting that Bangladesh’s trade deficit with the United States stands at only $5 billion.

“With such a relatively small deficit, imposing such a high tariff seems unreasonable,” he remarked.

The government views the upcoming meeting as a key opportunity to negotiate fairer trade terms and relieve pressure on Bangladeshi exporters, particularly in key sectors like garments and textiles, which are heavily affected by U.S. tariffs.