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Bangladesh-US trade pact: Gains with strings?

14 Feb '26

4 min read

Bangladesh-US trade pact: Gains with strings?

Pic: Shutterstock

Insights

As part of the Bangladesh-US Reciprocal Trade Deal signed on February 9, the US tariff on Bangladeshi exports will be reduced to 19 per cent.
The RMG sector is set to gain zero-tariff entry for apparel made with US cotton and MMF, boosting supply chain links.
BGMEA welcomes the deal.
Pact deepens ties but reportedly includes clauses on “non-market” deals.
Government says exit option exists.

The deal, viewed by many as a milestone in bilateral commerce, slightly reduces the US reciprocal tariff on Bangladeshi exports from ** per cent to ** per cent, a modest numerical shift, but one laden with symbolic and strategic importance for Dhaka’s export-driven economy.

At the heart of the agreement lies expanded market access. According to reports, the United States will offer duty-free or reduced-duty entry to roughly *,*** Bangladeshi products, opening wider doors for exporters seeking a stronger foothold in the world’s largest consumer market. In return, Bangladesh will reportedly extend similar privileges to around *,*** American goods, allowing them to enter its domestic market either duty-free or at reduced tariffs.