Trade agreement with US not final, scope for revision remains: Commerce Minister

Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir has stated that the trade agreement signed between Bangladesh and the United States is not unchangeable, noting that there is scope for amendments, additions, or deletions if necessary. He remarked that the agreement contains elements that could help further strengthen bilateral commercial ties in the future.

The Minister made these comments while speaking to journalists at the Ministry of Commerce on Wednesday, following a meeting with U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, Paul Kapoor.

Minister Muktadir highlighted that bilateral trade between Bangladesh and the U.S. stands at approximately $8.5 billion, with imports from the U.S. accounting for nearly $2.75 billion. As a single country, the United States remains one of Bangladesh’s largest trading partners. Consequently, the relationship encompasses vital issues such as economic ties, future investments, and the development of digital infrastructure.

Addressing the criticism regarding the trade agreement signed on February 9 during the tenure of the interim government, he noted that every agreement involves the interests of both parties. He explained that while some clauses may favor one side, others benefit the other, and the ultimate goal is to ensure a "win-win" situation through dialogue.

The Minister emphasized that the trade agreement should not be viewed as entirely positive or entirely negative at this stage. "It is a state-level agreement and a reality," he said, adding that no agreement is final and the possibility for future revisions through discussion remains open.