The second round of negotiations between Bangladesh and the United States on the proposed Agreement on Reciprocal Tariff begins today (July 9), with high-level delegations from both countries meeting in Washington DC.

The talks, scheduled for July 9–11, follow an official invitation extended by the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR). 

According to a statement from the Chief Adviser’s Press Wing, Bangladesh is among the first 14 countries to resume discussions after US President Donald Trump issued formal letters to global partners on July 7, seeking to accelerate tariff realignment.

The Bangladesh delegation is being led by Commerce Adviser Sk Bashir Uddin, who is attending the talks in person in Washington. 

National Security Adviser Dr. Khalilur Rahman is expected to join virtually from Dhaka. Other key officials, including the Commerce Secretary and an Additional Secretary, are also participating in the negotiation process.

Bangladesh hopes to build on the "positive momentum" established during the first round of talks held on June 27, the press statement noted. 

Dhaka is aiming for an early conclusion of the deal, which officials believe could open doors to preferential trade access and reduce tariff barriers for Bangladeshi exports to the US.

While no further details of the draft agreement have been made public, officials familiar with the process described the discussions as “constructive and strategic,” emphasizing mutual interests in strengthening economic ties amid shifting global trade dynamics.

The outcome of the second round is expected to shape the roadmap for finalizing the Reciprocal Tariff Agreement, potentially benefiting key export sectors including textiles, apparel, leather goods, and pharmaceuticals.

SMS/