Jeddah: Bangladesh’s National Security Adviser, Dr Khalilur Rahman, has initiated discussions with the US Trade Representative (USTR) to propose a reduction in the reciprocal tariff, currently set at 20 percent. Ambassador Jamieson Greer of the USTR has expressed a willingness to positively consider this proposal during their meeting in Washington DC.

According to United News of Bangladesh, Dr Rahman also advocated for lowering or eliminating the US reciprocal tariff on apparel incorporating US content. The discussions with Ambassador Greer and Assistant USTR Brendan Lynch covered the progress Bangladesh has made in narrowing the trade gap with the United States. Dr Rahman highlighted that even before the formalization of the reciprocal trade agreement, Bangladesh has significantly increased its imports from the US and implemented key aspects of the proposed agreement.

Both parties agreed on the importance of resolving outstanding issues swiftly to finalize and execute the reciprocal tariff agreement. Dr Rahman emphasized the expected increase in business interactions between Bangladesh and the US due to enhanced trade relations. He also urged Ambassador Greer to facilitate easier business travel for Bangladeshis, especially considering Bangladesh’s recent inclusion in the US visa bond program.

Dr Rahman further requested access to Development Finance Corporation (DFC) funding for Bangladesh’s private sector, to which Ambassador Greer responded positively. The meeting was attended by Bangladesh Ambassador to the US, Tareq Md Ariful Islam, along with other officials. Dr Rahman is scheduled to meet senior officials from the US State Department tomorrow.