United States to Receive ‘Package Proposal’ from Bangladesh: Finance Adviser

Khabor Wala Desk

Published: 29th July 2025, 5:32 PM

United States to Receive ‘Package Proposal’ from Bangladesh: Finance Adviser

Bangladesh is set to present a comprehensive “package proposal” to the United States in an effort to obtain relief from the high tariffs imposed on Bangladeshi products, according to Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed, the Prime Minister’s Finance Adviser.

Speaking to journalists on Tuesday (29 July) at the Secretariat following a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Public Procurement, Dr. Ahmed said:

“The Trade Adviser has travelled to Washington with the package. It includes discussions on potential additional purchases.”

The proposal is part of ongoing negotiations with the administration of US President Donald Trump. Bangladesh is seeking exemption from the 35% duty currently imposed on certain exports by offering to expand its imports from the United States.

Delegation and Meetings

A high-level Bangladeshi delegation, led by Trade Adviser Sheikh Bashiruddin, has departed for Washington. The team also includes:

Khalilur Rahman, National Security Adviser to the Chief Adviser
Mahbubur Rahman, Commerce Secretary
Nazneen Kauser Chowdhury, Additional Secretary

They are scheduled to meet officials of the Trump administration on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Strategic Trade Moves

In order to reduce the trade deficit with the United States and strengthen bilateral relations, Bangladesh has taken multiple strategic steps, including:

Initiative	Details
Import via TCB	Government purchase of wheat and soybean oil
Private Sector Imports	Increased procurement of US cotton
Aviation Investment	Declaration to buy 25 aircraft from Boeing

These steps are expected to bolster trade relations and demonstrate Bangladesh’s commitment to mutually beneficial economic cooperation.

When asked whether there were further components to the package, Dr. Ahmed responded:

“There are more, but I won’t disclose those now. Once the Trade Adviser returns, we’ll share further details.”

Background

The US currently offers tariff exemptions on 626 Bangladeshi products. However, the government considers this insufficient and is pursuing enhanced concessions through its broader proposal.

Dhaka’s initiative aims to ensure better market access for its exports while deepening economic ties with Washington.