DHAKA, April 6, (V7N) - Finance Adviser Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed has said the government will soon rationalize and streamline the country's tariff structure to enhance trade ties with the United States and remove existing trade barriers.

Speaking to reporters after a high-level meeting on the US tariff issue at the Finance Division conference room, Dr. Salehuddin stated, “We’ll ensure business with the USA faces no regulatory or non-tariff hurdles. The goal is to make trade smoother and mutually beneficial.”

He also informed that Bangladesh is planning to import strategic commodities such as LNG from the US to further strengthen bilateral trade. Discussions also covered immediate responses to the recently imposed reciprocal US tariffs, which have raised concerns among stakeholders.

Chief Adviser’s High Representative on the Rohingya Problem and Priority Issues, Khalilur Rahman, noted that the government’s formal stance on the US tariff matter would be finalized within 24 to 48 hours. “We’re aligned with the business community and will act to protect our interests,” he said.

Planning Adviser Dr. Wahiduddin Mahmud cautioned that the US tariff decision could have global repercussions, particularly affecting Bangladesh’s RMG exports. He emphasized the need to boost productivity and competitiveness to safeguard the sector’s global position.

Commerce Adviser Sk. Bashir Uddin and Energy Adviser Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan confirmed that specific proposals were agreed upon during the meeting. They committed to reviewing both tariff and non-tariff barriers and remaining in close dialogue with US authorities. Prominent business leaders, including Tapan Chowdhury and Syed Nasim Manzur, expressed cautious optimism, highlighting new opportunities for sectors like pharmaceuticals and calling for a level playing field.

END/BUS/RH/