Dhaka, July 08 (V7N) — Trade Adviser Sheikh Bashiruddin, who is currently in Washington D.C., is scheduled to hold a key meeting on Wednesday (July 9) with US officials to urge reconsideration of the recently imposed 35% tariff on Bangladeshi exports to the United States.

The Commerce Secretary is also en route from Dhaka to Washington to participate in the high-level discussions. The Bangladeshi delegation is expected to present its formal position and concerns over the tariff hike, which is set to take effect on August 1.

The development was confirmed by Finance Adviser Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed following a meeting of the Advisory Council on Procurement at the Secretariat on Tuesday.

Speaking to reporters, Dr. Salehuddin said, “The trade deficit between the US and Vietnam is actually higher than that with Bangladesh, yet the tariff imposed on Bangladesh is steeper. We will raise this inconsistency during the meeting.”

The United States administration, under President Donald Trump, announced a new 35% tariff on Bangladeshi goods earlier this week, drawing criticism and concern from Dhaka. Bangladesh fears the move could significantly hurt its export-dependent economy, particularly the ready-made garments sector.

Dr. Salehuddin also addressed domestic economic matters, stating that inflation has decreased by 2% compared to the same period last year. “We are optimistic this downward trend in inflation will continue,” he added.

Bangladesh hopes that ongoing diplomatic and trade negotiations will lead to a more favorable tariff arrangement, which will support continued economic cooperation between the two nations.

END/RH/AJ