The second day of the three-day Bangladesh–United States tariff negotiations concluded in Washington DC on Wednesday, with both sides making substantial progress on several trade-related issues while some points remain unresolved.
The discussions, which aim to define the direction of current and future trade relations between the two countries, involved intense argumentation and policy deliberations. Officials noted that while consensus was reached on several matters, some sensitive issues are yet to be finalised.
One of the key developments of the day was a closed-door meeting between Bangladesh’s Commerce Adviser Sheikh Bashir Uddin and US Trade Representative Ambassador Jamieson Greer.
Greer, who holds a cabinet-level rank in the Trump administration, is considered a crucial figure in shaping US trade policy. The one-on-one meeting was described as cordial and constructive, covering tariff-related concerns as well as broader strategic trade and economic interests.
Commerce Adviser Bashir Uddin presented a detailed overview of Bangladesh’s trade dynamics, highlighting Dhaka’s commitment not only to expand exports to the US but also to increase imports—an initiative that has already begun. He emphasised the need for equitable tariff treatment to ensure Bangladesh’s competitive access to the US market. Ambassador Greer reportedly assured full cooperation from the US side.
The Bangladesh delegation was led by Commerce Adviser Sheikh Bashir Uddin. Joining virtually from Dhaka was National Security Adviser Dr Khalilur Rahman. Present at the talks in Washington were Commerce Secretary Mahbubur Rahman and Additional Secretary Dr Nazneen Kauser Chowdhury. Several senior officials and trade experts from the Bangladesh government also participated virtually.
The third and final day of talks is scheduled to begin at 9:00 am Washington time on Thursday.