No reason for concern, Bangladesh-US trade deal designed for mutual benefit: Minister

Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir on Tuesday said the Bangladesh–US trade agreement should be utilised for mutual benefit, stressing that there is no reason to be concerned about the deal.

He made the remarks while speaking to reporters after a meeting with US Assistant Trade Representative for South and Central Asia Brendan Lynch at his ministry’s conference room this morning, UNB reports.

The minister said international agreements are always based on mutual cooperation. “Any international agreement is shaped by both parties. It is designed to create a win-win situation, taking into account the interests of both sides. Therefore, there is nothing to worry about this agreement,” he said.

The minister noted that the current government did not initiate the agreement but inherited it as part of state continuity.

“A state-level agreement is not like a personal contract that can be cancelled at will. It is a reality, and we want to utilise it to expand trade and investment in the country,” Muktadir added.

Referring to a recent investigation initiated by the United States, he said Bangladesh had sought clarification and responded with its observations after receiving explanations. “We have clearly stated that such an investigation would have been more positive if it had not been initiated in the context of the existing agreement,” he said.

Highlighting Bangladesh’s production and trade scenario, the commerce minister said the country does not have overcapacity in any sector and rejected allegations of dumping.

“We import most of our goods. Our exports, particularly in the ready-made garment sector, operate under strict international compliance. There is no scope for labour law violations or child labour,” he said.

On the possibility of cancelling the agreement, Muktadir said the government always prioritises national interest as the elected representative of the people.

“If any clause in the agreement goes against Bangladesh’s interests, there is scope for amendment within the agreement itself. It has a self-correcting mechanism,” he said.

The minister added that there is no reason for panic over the issue.

During the meeting, both sides discussed strengthening Bangladesh–US trade and investment relations, along with other issues of mutual interest. Senior officials, including Secretary (Routine Duty) of the Ministry of Commerce Md Abdur Rahim Khan, were present.