US seeks written tariff reduction proposals from Bangladesh

The United States Trade Representative (USTR) has requested written proposals from Bangladesh regarding its commitment to reduce import duties on American goods.

USTR Jamieson Greer praised Bangladesh's initiative to narrow the trade gap with the US and responded to the country's move to begin negotiations on US President Donald Trump's reciprocal tariff policy, according to a USTR letter to Commerce Adviser Sk Bashir Uddin on May 7.

"My team is ready to engage with Bangladesh to address the persistent bilateral trade deficit by reducing Bangladesh's agricultural and industrial tariffs and non-tariff barriers, as well as aligning with the United States on economic security matters," Greer wrote.

"I welcome the positive steps your letter references with regard to Bangladesh's reform initiatives related to key US interests, and I also encourage the Government of Bangladesh to address other areas of unfair trade practices, such as labour rights violations and measures that may restrict digital trade," he added.

"We look forward to receiving a written offer from your government so that we can commence formal negotiations," the USTR letter said.