Dhaka, Feb 08 (V7N)- Bangladesh is set to sign a trade agreement with the United States on February 9, under which existing tariffs will be reduced from 20 percent, paving the way for negotiations to bring tariffs on the garment sector to zero, Civil Aviation and Tourism Advisor Sheikh Bashiruddin said.

He made the remarks at a press conference at the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism on Sunday (February 8), while briefing the media on overall issues related to Biman Bangladesh Airlines.

The advisor said that state-owned Biman Bangladesh Airlines has proposed purchasing 25 Boeing aircraft as part of efforts to harmonize trade relations with the United States. Of these, 14 aircraft are scheduled to be delivered by 2035.

Sheikh Bashiruddin said the trade agreement is being signed before the national election to ensure that the next government does not face difficulties in trade relations with developed countries, including the US.
“This is not a rushed decision. It is being done in the broader interest of the country,” he said.

The advisor also noted that over the past year, airfares on various international routes operated by Biman Bangladesh Airlines have been reduced by nearly half.

Regarding the upcoming Hajj season, he said that Saudi expatriates will be able to return home with tickets priced at just Tk 20,000, providing significant relief to passengers.

END/SMA/AJ