Written by The Banking Post
Bangladesh is intensifying its efforts to further reduce the United States’ reciprocal tariff on its exports from the recently lowered 20% to 15%, Commerce Adviser Sk Bashir Uddin announced on Tuesday.
Addressing a press briefing after a high-level meeting on export targets for FY 2025-26 at the commerce ministry, Mr. Bashir confirmed that talks with US officials are ongoing to achieve this additional tariff cut.
The US reduced tariffs from 35% to 20% on August 1, 2025, following intense negotiations in Washington in late July. Importantly, the tariff cut was secured without Bangladesh making economic concessions.
Mr. Bashir highlighted that the trade deficit with the US will be managed by increasing imports of American food and agricultural products, maintaining a balanced trade relationship.
“We are optimistic about attaining the 15% tariff threshold, backed by proactive government initiatives,” he said.
The adviser also underscored Bangladesh’s parallel efforts to enhance duty-free market access to the UK and the European Union, vital markets for the country’s export growth.
The briefing was attended by Commerce Secretary Mahbubur Rahman, senior officials from the commerce ministry, and representatives from trade bodies and state agencies.
