Tariff talks focus core issues

Commerce Adviser Sheikh Bashir Uddin Thursday met with US Trade Representative Ambassador Jamieson Greer at his office in Washington, DC, discussing core issues related to Bangladesh-US trade relationship, including new tariffs.

"The two dignitaries discussed issues of mutual interest, with particular focus on Bangladesh-US trade, commerce and the ongoing tariff negotiations," said a spokesperson for the CA Office on Friday.

Both sides reiterated their commitment to working together for shared benefits.

The second day of the second round of three-day tariff talks between Bangladesh and the United States ended later in the day on Thursday in the US capital, with the Bangladesh side urging a rethink on the 35-percent additional duties on Bangladeshi products on the American market.

"The talks were comprehensive, touching upon almost all the key aspects of the trade relationships between the two nations," the spokesperson said.

Commerce Adviser Sheikh Bashiruddin led the Bangladesh delegation in Washington, DC. National Security Adviser Dr. Khalilur Rahman and Chief Adviser's Special Assistant on ICT and Telecommunications Faiz Ahmed Tayeb, joined the talks virtually from Dhaka.

Senior Commerce Ministry officials also attended the meeting in the US capital.

Senior US officials from USTR, agriculture, labour affairs, environment and natural resources, treasury, innovation and intellectual property, investment agencies etc joined the meeting.

The talks will also be held Friday to wrap up the latest series of negotiations, in the wake of longing for a breakthrough in business and trade circles of Bangladesh.

mirmostafiz@yahoo.com