US trade deal not irreversible, scope for revisions still there: Commerce minister

The agreement contains elements that could further strengthen bilateral trade ties, says the minister.

The recently signed trade agreement between Bangladesh and the United States is not irreversible and can be amended, added to, or revised, if necessary, Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir said today (4 March).

He said the agreement includes provisions that could help deepen commercial relations between the two countries in the future.

Speaking to reporters after a meeting with US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Paul Kapur at the Commerce Ministry, Muktadir noted that bilateral trade between Bangladesh and the US stands at around $8.5 billion, of which nearly $2.75 billion accounts for imports from the US.

As a single country, the US remains one of Bangladesh’s largest trading partners. Economic cooperation between the two nations also encompasses future investment prospects and digital infrastructure development, among other key areas, he added.

Addressing criticism over the trade deal signed on 9 February during the tenure of the interim government, the minister said any agreement reflects the interests of both parties. “Some clauses may favour one side, while others may be beneficial to the other.

“The goal of negotiations is to ensure a win-win outcome for both,” he said.

He added that the agreement should not be viewed as entirely positive or negative at this stage. “It is a government-level agreement and a reality. However, no agreement is final. There is always room for change through future discussions if required,” he said.

Regarding a recent ruling by a US court on tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump under emergency powers, Muktadir said the situation remains evolving and that the government is closely monitoring developments.

On concerns among business leaders over the US visa bond issue, he said the foreign ministry was handling the matter.

He stressed that the government wants businesspeople and investors from both countries to travel and conduct investment activities smoothly, without facing obstacles.

Saying the US has expressed interest in working with the new Bangladesh government, the minister added that removing non-tariff barriers and meeting necessary conditions could open up greater opportunities for US investment and development financing.