US tariff reduction on Bangladeshi exports is satisfactory: Amir Khasru

BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury has termed the recent reduction of countervailing duties on Bangladeshi exports to the United States—from 35 percent to 20 percent—as a “satisfactory situation” for the country’s export sector.

Speaking to reporters in Gulshan on Friday (August 1), Khasru said the revised tariff positions Bangladesh more competitively in the global market. “Pakistan faces a 19 percent rate, Vietnam 20 percent, and India 25 percent. In that context, a 20 percent duty is acceptable and gives Bangladesh a fair footing in trade,” he noted.

However, Khasru emphasized that the full scope of the tariff reduction remains unclear. “We know the rate has been lowered, but we don’t yet know what commitments or conditions have been made in exchange. Without those details, it’s difficult to fully assess the implications,” he said.

He suggested that the reduction could be part of a broader agreement involving multiple sectors. “This might be a comprehensive package deal, not limited to tariffs. Only when the full terms are disclosed can we understand the nature of the agreement,” he added.

When asked if the decision brings relief to Bangladeshi exporters who were concerned about potential trade barriers, Khasru responded, “A 20 percent tariff does not pose a significant hurdle at this point. It can be seen as a positive development, but a complete evaluation will depend on further information.”

In response to questions about whether the recent announcement to purchase 25 Boeing aircraft from the U.S. might be linked to the tariff decision, Khasru said, “The U.S. primarily acts in its own export interests. How Bangladesh absorbs this impact will depend on the strength of its economy and business community.”

He called on the government to provide transparency on the details of the agreement and its broader implications. “Bangladesh must not depend solely on the U.S. market,” he warned. “We need to diversify our exports and expand into new markets. That diversification is the real challenge ahead.”