The Network for People’s Action (NPA) has demanded a thorough reconsideration of the proposed trade agreement with the United States, citing concerns over its potential negative effects on Bangladesh’s economy, agriculture, and industry.
During a protest held in front of the National Parliament building in Dhaka on Friday, NPA leaders expressed concern over the agreement, claiming it could harm key sectors of the economy and undermine the country’s policy-making autonomy.
In a written statement, NPA spokesperson Anik Rai stated, “A trade agreement with the US was signed under near secrecy just before the elections, with no public consultation. This deal could pose significant risks for workers, farmers, and the general population.”
Anik Rai highlighted that the agreement would allow 6,710 US products to enter Bangladesh duty-free, while only approximately 2,500 Bangladeshi products would gain limited access to the US market under certain conditions.
Meghmallar Basu, another NPA leader, raised concerns about clauses in the agreement that could compel Bangladesh to cease trade with countries facing US sanctions.
NPA leaders also noted that the agreement has not yet been approved by the National Parliament. They urged lawmakers to carefully reconsider the deal and review its potentially harmful provisions before granting any approval.
