Bangladesh Secures Lower US Apparel Tariff

Bangladesh has secured a 20% tariff rate on its apparel exports to the United States, reduced from an initially proposed 37%, following the conclusion of the third round of tariff negotiations in Washington, DC. This outcome was lauded by Interim Government Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus as a significant diplomatic achievement that preserves Bangladesh's competitiveness in the global garment sector. India, by contrast, failed to reach an agreement and will now face a 25% tariff on its exports. As part of the comprehensive trade discussions, Bangladesh also agreed to purchase U.S. agricultural products, reinforcing bilateral ties and supporting domestic food security. The new tariffs, which are part of broader Trump administration trade measures affecting over 70 countries, have underscored the importance of strategic trade diplomacy for South Asian exporters. Bangladeshi exporters expressed relief, noting the new rate helps maintain their competitive edge despite ongoing challenges.