In a meeting with US Chargé d’Affaires Tracey Ann Jacobson in Dhaka, Bangladesh’s Commerce Advisor Sheikh Bashir Uddin declared on 6th April that the higher tariffs scheduled to go into effect on 9th April will not be postponed.
At a press briefing after the meeting, Uddin stated, “We inquired about the possibility of postponing the tariff implementation date, but were informed that there would be no global or country-specific suspension.” He added that contrary to some perceptions, there is no likelihood of a suspension for specific countries on the effective date.
The meeting, held at the US acting ambassador’s residence in Gulshan, included Industry Adviser Md Adilur Rahman and other high-ranking officials. It focused on trade barriers and the ongoing concerns surrounding the reciprocal tariffs imposed by the United States, which several countries, including Vietnam and Cambodia, have sought to delay.
Bangladesh is also preparing to formally request a three-month extension for the increased tariff rates. Uddin emphasised the country’s aim to reduce its trade deficit with the US, stating that discussions will continue to explore potential solutions. “They have not officially communicated any specific measures yet, but they stressed the importance of consultations,” he remarked.
He further mentioned that Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser is expected to take a personal role in these discussions, which will be approached incrementally. Uddin noted the need to address both tariff and non-tariff issues impacting trade, expressing a commitment to implement changes beneficial to the Bangladeshi economy while seeking further dialogue on less favorable measures.
