US envoy for deeper trade ties with Bangladesh

The core objective of the recently signed trade agreement between Bangladesh and the United States is to build a more balanced, sustainable and mutually beneficial economic partnership, creating new opportunities for businesses and consumers in both countries, said US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T Christensen yesterday.

Speaking on the Bangladesh-United States Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART), he said public debate and scrutiny are natural parts of policymaking and that views on the agreement may differ.

He stressed the need to address non-tariff barriers and improve the regulatory and business environment to support stronger economic engagement.

The envoy also called for continued dialogue between governments and the private sector to resolve trade challenges and develop practical solutions.

Christensen made the remarks during a visit to the International Chamber of Commerce, Bangladesh (ICCB) secretariat in Dhaka, where he held an exchange meeting with ICCB President Mahbubur Rahman and members, focusing on strengthening Bangladesh-US economic and commercial relations.

He also highlighted the importance of adapting to evolving global trade dynamics and shifting market requirements.

According to a statement from ICCB, the envoy lauded Bangladesh’s strong economic progress over recent decades, describing it as one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, and underscored expanding opportunities for deeper cooperation with the US in trade, investment and business development.

ICCB President Rahman highlighted the longstanding economic partnership between Bangladesh and the US, stressing the need to expand trade, investment and private-sector cooperation.

He noted that the US remains one of Bangladesh’s key trade and investment partners and described the ART as an important step towards a more balanced and mutually beneficial economic relationship.

He said Bangladesh has undertaken major commercial purchases from the US, including Biman Bangladesh Airlines’ order for 14 Boeing aircraft, increased imports of agricultural commodities and cotton, and long-term commitments in the energy sector.

Rahman also highlighted rising demand for US cotton and stressed the need to strengthen supply-chain traceability and sustainability in the apparel sector, adding that greater use of US cotton could enhance Bangladesh’s competitiveness and compliance in global markets.

Rupali Chowdhury, president of Foreign Investors’ Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), said governance and regulatory challenges exist to varying degrees across both developing and developed economies.

She noted the market access opportunities offered by major trading partners, including the European Union, and expressed hope for deeper Bangladesh–US trade and investment cooperation.

Rubana Huq, former president of Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), said Bangladesh remains a leading global sourcing destination for apparel and textiles, adding that continued improvements in labour practices, transparency and sustainability would further strengthen its competitiveness.

Md Fazlul Hoque, former president of Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA), said greater industrial self-reliance requires long-term planning, investment and policy support. He also highlighted the growing importance of man-made fibre (MMF)-based products in global markets, noting Bangladesh’s continued strength in cotton-based apparel.

He further stressed the need for increased US investment in cotton warehousing and distribution facilities in Bangladesh to improve access to high-quality cotton and strengthen supply-chain linkages between the two countries.

Among others, Eric Geelan, political and economic counsellor of the US Embassy to Bangladesh; Asif Ahmed, economic specialist; AK Azad and Naser Ezaz Bijoy, vice-presidents of ICCB; Muhammad A (Rumee) Ali, chairman of the ICCB Banking Commission; and Ataur Rahman, secretary general of ICCB, were also present.