Dhaka [Bangladesh], July 12: The second round of tariff negotiations between Bangladesh and the United States concluded after three days without a final agreement, despite some progress on key issues.
According to a statement from the Bangladesh Chief Adviser’s Press Wing, “The two countries have agreed on some more issues on the third and final day of talks. However, several matters remain unresolved.” Both nations have agreed to continue discussions at the inter-ministerial level before resuming bilateral negotiations. These may be held virtually or in person, with dates to be finalised soon.
Bangladesh’s delegation was led by Commerce Adviser Sheikh Bashir Uddin, with National Security Advisor Dr. Khalilur Rahman and Special Assistant Faiz Tayyab joining virtually. Senior officials and experts from both sides also participated.
The talks followed a letter from US President Donald Trump issued two days before the July 9 deadline. The letter announced a 35% flat tariff on all Bangladeshi exports to the US, effective August 1, 2025. The letter cited Bangladesh’s “long-term and persistent trade deficits” and “non-reciprocal tariff and non-tariff trade barriers.”
Trump’s message stated, “Starting August 1, 2025, we will charge Bangladesh a tariff of only 35% on all Bangladeshi products sent to the United States, separate from all sectoral tariffs.” It also warned that any attempt to bypass this rate through trans-shipment or retaliatory tariff hikes would be met with further increases.
Despite the sharp shift in trade policy, Bangladesh’s top advisers remain “optimistic” about finding a positive resolution within the stipulated timeline.