Bangladesh Approves Import of 220,000 Tonnes of Wheat from the United States

Khabor Wala Desk

Published: 23rd July 2025, 8:01 PM

Bangladesh Approves Import of 220,000 Tonnes of Wheat from the United States

In a move aimed at ensuring food security and maintaining the country’s trade balance, Bangladesh has approved the import of 220,000 metric tonnes of wheat from the United States. The decision was made on Wednesday, 23 July, during a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Government Purchase, held at the Secretariat.

Decision Highlights

Aspect	Details
Quantity Approved	220,000 metric tonnes of wheat
Source Country	United States
Reason for Import	To support food security and trade equilibrium
Approval Body	Cabinet Committee on Government Purchase
Meeting Venue	Secretariat, Dhaka
Meeting Date	23 July

Statement from the Economic Adviser

Following the meeting, Economic Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed addressed the media, stating that the purchase was slightly more expensive due to ongoing trade negotiations with the United States.

“We are buying wheat at a slightly higher price as part of strategic negotiations to expand trade and reduce tariffs with the US,” — Salehuddin Ahmed

He further confirmed the committee’s approval for importing approximately 150,000 tonnes of fertiliser, including various types such as TSP (Triple Super Phosphate) and MOP (Muriate of Potash).

Additionally, he said:

“We have approved the import of 2.5 million tonnes of wheat from the US,”
(Likely referencing a broader framework agreement beyond the immediate 220,000 tonnes.)

Ongoing Tariff Negotiations

Salehuddin Ahmed also revealed plans to visit the United States again next week to discuss tariff impositions and seek favourable outcomes that would benefit Bangladesh’s trade interests.

He expressed optimism that a positive decision on US tariffs would be finalised before 1 August.

Wheat Import Framework Agreement

Earlier, on 20 July, Bangladesh signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the United States to facilitate long-term wheat imports. Under this MoU:

Agreement Duration	Annual Import Quantity	Wheat Quality	Price Condition
5 years	700,000 metric tonnes/year	High-quality wheat	At competitive prices

This strategic partnership ensures a stable and consistent supply of high-quality wheat for Bangladesh over the next five years, helping to bolster the country’s grain reserves and safeguard against future market volatility.

The move underscores the government’s commitment to securing essential food commodities while strengthening bilateral trade relations with the United States