DHAKA, Sept 24, 2025 (BSS) - Experts and policymakers today underscored the need for a comprehensive national strategy to maximise the benefits of the recently signed Bangladesh-US tariff deal, saying the agreement offers both opportunities and challenges for the country's trade sector.

They made the observation at a seminar on "Bangladesh-US Tariff Deal: How to Optimise Trade Benefit" organised by the Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies (BIISS) at its auditorium in the capital.

Dr Anisuzzaman Chowdhury, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser (Ministry of Finance), attended the seminar as the Chief Guest. Commerce Secretary Mahbubur Rahman joined as Special Guest, while BIISS Director General Major General Iftekhar Anis delivered the welcome address and chaired the session.
 
Dr Mohammad Jasim Uddin, Research Director at BIISS, offered the vote of thanks.

In their presentations, Dr Mahfuz Kabir, Research Director of BIISS, Professor Dr Golam Rasul of IUBAT, and BGMEA Senior Vice President Inamul Haq Khan highlighted the implications of the tariff deal for Bangladesh's export competitiveness.

The speakers noted that the reciprocal tariff rate for Bangladesh has been reduced from 35 percent to 20 percent, effective from August 1. 

They hailed this achievement as a significant diplomatic success that places Bangladesh on par with regional competitors such as Vietnam, Indonesia, Cambodia, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, while remaining more competitive than neighbours like India and Myanmar.

They observed that the US remains one of Bangladesh's largest export markets, particularly for garments, and the deal could further expand bilateral trade if effectively utilised. 

However, they cautioned that the evolving global tariff environment requires immediate policy attention and coordinated action from all stakeholders.

"To reap the full benefits of this agreement, Bangladesh must adopt a comprehensive strategy covering the entire trade ecosystem," the seminar was told.

Policymakers, businesses, and experts were urged to work together to ensure sustained growth and resilience in the face of uncertainties linked to the US tariff war.

The open discussion session saw active participation from senior government officials, diplomats, military officers, business leaders, academicians, researchers, media representatives, and students, who shared their perspectives and recommendations.