The United States and Bangladesh have signed a Reciprocal Trade Agreement establishing a 19% U.S. reciprocal tariff rate on imports from Bangladesh, marking a new chapter in bilateral trade relations.
U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer joined Bangladesh’s Adviser for Commerce, Textiles and Jute, and Civil Aviation and Tourism Sheikh Bashir Uddin in formalizing the agreement.
Key Tariff Provisions
Under the agreement:
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The United States will maintain a 19% reciprocal tariff rate on imports from Bangladesh.
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Certain identified products listed in Annex III (Potential Tariff Adjustments for Aligned Partners) to Executive Order 14346 (Sept. 5, 2025) will receive a 0% reciprocal tariff rate.
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The detailed tariff schedule associated with the agreement has been made publicly available.
This structure aligns Bangladesh with other countries operating under the updated Reciprocal Tariff Framework introduced in 2025.
Expanded Market Access for U.S. Exports
Bangladesh has committed to providing preferential market access for a wide range of U.S. industrial and agricultural products, including:
Chemicals – Machinery and parts – Medical devices – Motor vehicles and parts – Information and communications technology (ICT) equipment – Energy products – Soy products – Dairy – Beef and poultry – Tree nuts and fruit
These commitments are designed to strengthen U.S. export competitiveness in the South Asian market.
Addressing Non-Tariff Barriers
In addition to tariff adjustments, Bangladesh has agreed to address key non-tariff barriers that have historically impacted bilateral trade.
Regulatory and Standards Recognition
Bangladesh will:
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Accept vehicles built to U.S. federal motor vehicle safety and emissions standards
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Accept U.S. FDA certificates related to prior marketing authorization for medical devices and pharmaceuticals
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Remove import restrictions or licensing requirements on U.S. remanufactured goods and parts
Agricultural Trade Commitments
Bangladesh also committed to:
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Recognize U.S. sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) measures
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Accept certificates issued by U.S. regulatory authorities
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Prevent barriers to U.S. food and agricultural exports
These measures are expected to reduce compliance friction and improve predictability for U.S. exporters.
Broader Trade Context
The U.S.–Bangladesh agreement reflects the administration’s broader strategy of implementing reciprocal tariff frameworks combined with targeted market-access commitments. While the 19% reciprocal tariff remains in place for most goods, the expanded zero-tariff categories and non-tariff reforms signal a structured approach to balanced trade.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the reciprocal tariff rate for Bangladesh?
The U.S. will maintain a 19% reciprocal tariff rate, with select products qualifying for a 0% rate under Annex III.
Are any products exempt?
Yes. Certain identified goods listed under Annex III of Executive Order 14346 will receive 0% reciprocal tariffs.
What does Bangladesh gain under the agreement?
Bangladesh secures predictable tariff treatment while expanding trade cooperation and reducing non-tariff barriers.
What industries benefit most?
U.S. exporters in agriculture, medical devices, automotive, ICT, and energy stand to benefit significantly.