Dhaka: Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir today said the recent trade agreement between Bangladesh and the United States is a state level deal and described the US tariff issue as an evolving situation being closely monitored by the government. He also said that the deal should not be viewed as ‘wholesale negative or wholesale positive’.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Commerce Minister made these remarks after US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs S. Paul Kapur met him at his office at Bangladesh Secretariat. State Minister for Commerce Md Shariful Alam, Commerce Secretary Mahbubur Rahman, and US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T. Christensen were present on the occasion.
Rejecting concerns that the agreement is final and irreversible, Muktadir emphasized that no agreement is ‘end of life’ and most deals contain self-correcting or review clauses. He assured that there is always room for negotiation if provisions need modification, urging stakeholders not to be overly anxious.
The minister highlighted the United States as Bangladesh’s largest single-country trading partner, noting that bilateral discussions covered a range of issues, including trade, investment, and digital infrastructure development. Referring to the reciprocal trade agreement signed on February 9, he indicated that no special discussion was held during the latest meeting as it had already been concluded between the two governments.
Addressing queries about US tariff measures, the minister explained that the matter relates to a provision under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, which was ruled unjustified by a higher US court, making the situation ‘evolving.’ Muktadir clarified that his remarks were limited to this legal development.
Responding to criticism regarding the protection of Bangladesh’s interests in the agreement, he noted that bilateral trade deals involve demands and concessions from both sides, aiming for a win-win situation. The agreement, he added, contains provisions that could strengthen bilateral trade relations.
The minister emphasized the agreement as a state deal with no identified adverse elements so far. He invited stakeholders to raise any concerns with the government, which is also reviewing the matter. On visa bond requirements raised by business leaders, he stated this falls under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs but stressed the importance of barrier-free travel for businesspeople and investors from both countries.
Muktadir mentioned that US representatives expressed willingness to continue working with the new government and expand cooperation. He pointed out non-tariff barriers and other obstacles that, if addressed, could make Bangladesh more attractive for American investment and eligible for US development finance facilities.
He concluded by acknowledging the United States as a major commercial partner and reiterated efforts to strengthen ties in trade, investment, and digital infrastructure development.