A proposed 10 per cent US tariff on Bangladeshi exports is unlikely to have a significant impact on the country's export competitiveness, as Bangladesh remains among a small group of countries subject to the lowest tariff rate, Information and Broadcasting Adviser to the Prime Minister Dr Zahed Ur Rahman said on Tuesday.
Speaking at the weekly press briefing, he said Bangladesh is one of only 17 countries facing a 10 per cent tariff, while many competing exporting nations are subject to higher tariff rates, averaging around 12.5 per cent.
"We do not expect the proposed tariff to have any major adverse impact on Bangladesh's exports," he said, adding that the government is closely monitoring developments and will take necessary measures to safeguard the country's trade interests.
The adviser also addressed the country's gas supply situation, saying Bangladesh is currently facing a shortfall of around 400 million cubic feet per day (mmcfd) due to a technical problem in a major gas supply line.
He said the temporary disruption was caused by operational issues and expressed hope that the situation would improve within the next week.
"The present gas problem has arisen due to temporary reasons. We expect the situation to return to normal within one week," he said.
To reduce dependence on imported liquefied natural gas (LNG) and strengthen long-term energy security, the government has intensified efforts to explore new natural gas reserves across the country.
"The government is giving priority to gas exploration within the country," the adviser said.
He added that increasing domestic gas production remains one of the government's key priorities to ensure a stable energy supply for industries, power generation and households.
Responding to a question on Bangladesh's possible membership of BRICS, Dr Rahman said the country had received an invitation but had not yet taken any decision.
"Bangladesh has been invited, but no preliminary discussions have started yet," he said.
He also said all major policy decisions, including those relating to international partnerships and trade, would be taken in the best interests of the country and its people.
Replying to another question, the adviser said the recent retirement of 32 joint secretaries, many of whom had served as deputy commissioners during the 2018 general election, was not linked to allegations surrounding that election.
However, he said all officials and stakeholders found to have been involved in any irregularities during the 2018 election should be brought to justice in accordance with the law.
Responding to another query, Dr Rahman said irregularities had also been detected in the 2008 general election, claiming that in some instances more than 1,000 votes had reportedly been counted within a single minute.
He also said incentives and benefits for freedom fighters had been increased from the current fiscal year.
The adviser announced that the July Museum will be inaugurated on August 5.
He further said a new president would be elected soon following the resignation of President Shahabuddin Chuppu.
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