Bangladesh Requests Reduction of 20% Reciprocal Tariff on Apparel

Bangladesh has formally requested the United States to reduce its current 20% reciprocal tariff on apparel that contains US content. This proposal was made during a meeting between Bangladesh's National Security Adviser Dr. Khalilur Rahman and US Trade Representative Ambassador Jamieson Greer on January 8, 2026, in Washington DC.

Dr. Rahman highlighted Bangladesh's efforts to narrow the trade gap with the US, including increased imports from the US and the implementation of key elements of the reciprocal trade agreement, even before it is officially signed. He emphasized that these actions demonstrated Bangladesh's commitment to improving trade relations.

Ambassador Greer expressed a willingness to review the request, noting that both countries had agreed to resolve the remaining issues quickly to ensure that the reciprocal tariff agreement is finalized without delay.

The US trade representative also committed to reviewing Bangladesh’s proposal to reduce or eliminate tariffs on apparel using US content, a move seen as critical in strengthening bilateral trade ties.