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Dhaka, July 25: Bangladesh and the United States are set to engage in a critical virtual meeting on 29 July, just two days ahead of the scheduled implementation of a 35% reciprocal tariff on select Bangladeshi exports by the US.

The meeting, confirmed by Commerce Adviser Sk Bashir Uddin during a press briefing on Thursday, comes as part of Dhaka’s intensified diplomatic efforts to avert the looming trade setback.

“We have a virtual meeting scheduled with the US on 29 July. Based on the outcome, we will determine our next course of action,” said Commerce Secretary Md Mahbubur Rahman, noting that the meeting will be held at 10 PM Bangladesh time.

No Lobbyist, Only Direct Diplomacy

Adviser Bashir Uddin emphasized that the government has not engaged any lobbyist in this matter, stating that the Ministry of Commerce is relying solely on direct negotiations. A formal letter was recently sent to the US Secretary of Commerce, outlining Bangladesh’s concerns and requesting a third round of in-person dialogue—though a date is yet to be confirmed.

“We’re awaiting an official invitation for physical talks. Our team is ready to engage once that happens,” he added.

A High-Stakes Strategic Engagement

The virtual meeting is seen as a pivotal moment for both countries. The United States invoked a national emergency provision to justify the reciprocal tariffs, complicating any legal or lobbying recourse from the Bangladeshi side.

“This issue is as critical for the US as it is for us,” said the adviser. “We’ve presented our case clearly and are hopeful for a constructive outcome.”

He further highlighted the inter-ministerial coordination that has taken place in recent weeks to address the crisis. “Over the past 15 days, nearly every relevant ministry has worked around the clock. We are fully aligned and prepared.”

Rejecting Speculation and Social Media Claims

In response to speculation that Bangladesh may be compromising its own interests to appease the US, Bashir Uddin dismissed the notion outright.

“I have no comment on baseless claims. Like you, I am a Bangladeshi. Why would I work against my own country? These claims are entirely unfounded.”

On the private sector potentially hiring lobbyists independently, he clarified that such initiatives are outside the purview of the government.

“The government has no involvement in that. Besides, given the national emergency invoked by the US, the scope for lobbyist intervention is extremely limited.”

Contingency Planning

Asked about a contingency plan if the talks fail or if no response comes before 1 August, Bashir Uddin said, “We remain optimistic.” However, he stopped short of detailing any fallback strategies.