Financial expert hopeful about resolving US trade tariff matter

Bangladesh Hopes for Resolution of US Tariff Issue
Finance Adviser Sees Mutual Benefits; Efforts Intensify to Bridge Trade Gap

Finance Adviser Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed today expressed optimism about resolving the reciprocal tariff issue with the United States, highlighting it as a potential win-win situation for both nations. He noted that Chief Adviser Prof. Dr. Muhammad Yunus had already sent a formal letter to US President Donald Trump, seeking cooperation on the matter.

"Overall, we’ve responded positively. We expect the same level of cooperation from them. It’s a win-win situation… we’ve raised our concerns, and I hope the issue will be resolved," said Dr. Salehuddin. He made the remarks while speaking to the media after chairing a meeting of the Advisers Council Committee on Government Purchase at the Cabinet Division conference room, Bangladesh Secretariat.

The finance adviser emphasized that a resolution would benefit both Bangladesh and the United States, and praised the proactive diplomatic engagement.

A day earlier, Prof. Yunus had written to President Trump, requesting a three-month deferral on the imposition of a 37% tariff on Bangladeshi products in the US market. The letter cited the visit of High Representative Dr. Khalilur Rahman to Washington DC in February as part of the government's strategic efforts to boost US exports to Bangladesh.

Commenting on the developments, Commerce Adviser Sk. Bashir Uddin stated that while a response from the US Trade Representative is still awaited, the government is committed to reducing the trade gap. "We're working on identifying products and conducting various analyses to reduce the trade imbalance," he said.

He also mentioned that Bangladesh is taking calculated steps to address US concerns by offering zero import tariffs on an additional 100 American goods, supplementing the current list of 190 products. This move, aimed at improving trade relations and addressing reciprocal tariffs, is part of a broader government initiative.

Bangladesh, a key importer of US cotton and a major exporter of ready-made garments, continues to face higher US tariffs on its exports. The government’s active engagement seeks to level the playing field and create sustainable trade growth between the two countries.