Dhaka, Apr 10 (V7N) – Professor Muhammad Yunus, Chief Advisor to Bangladesh’s interim government, has expressed his gratitude to U.S. President Donald Trump for suspending retaliatory tariffs on U.S. exports for 90 days, following Bangladesh’s formal request for relief amid rising trade tensions.

The announcement was made through the Chief Advisor’s verified Facebook page on Wednesday night. Citing President Trump’s official X (formerly Twitter) handle, Professor Yunus wrote,
"Thank you, President, for your positive response to our request to suspend tariffs for 90 days. We will continue to work with your administration in support of your trade agenda."

On the same evening, President Trump announced via his Truth Social platform that the retaliatory tariffs imposed by the U.S. on various countries would be suspended for three months. During this period, the duties on most affected products will be temporarily reduced to 10%, down from higher rates. However, tariffs on Chinese goods will increase to 125%, signaling a more aggressive stance toward China.

Professor Yunus had earlier sent a letter to President Trump on Monday, requesting the temporary suspension of the 37% countervailing duty recently imposed on Bangladeshi products exported to the U.S. The letter cited the need for consultative meetings and internal adjustments to comply with U.S. trade expectations.

In return, Bangladesh has offered concessions on key American exports, including:

  • 50% tariff reduction on U.S. gas turbines

  • Tariff relief for semiconductors and medical equipment

In his letter, Professor Yunus emphasized Bangladesh's commitment to fair trade and expressed hope for continued economic cooperation between the two countries.
"We will complete the work as planned within the next quarter. Please allow the necessary time for consultative meetings with U.S. officials to implement these activities," he wrote.

The suspension of tariffs is a significant move for Bangladesh, especially amid concerns of export disruption due to rising global protectionism. With Bangladesh’s ready-made garment (RMG) sector and textile exports heavily reliant on access to major markets like the U.S., this development brings temporary relief to the country’s exporters.

The gesture also marks a positive diplomatic milestone for the interim government led by Professor Yunus, indicating successful engagement at the highest level with the U.S. administration.

More updates are expected as meetings between Bangladeshi and U.S. trade officials proceed in the coming weeks.

END/MSS/AJ