B Mirror Report: Commerce Minister Khondaker Abdul Muktadir has said there is no reason for undue concern regarding the Bangladesh–United States trade agreement, stressing that such international deals are based on mutual interests and cooperation.
Speaking to journalists on Tuesday (5 May) after a meeting with Brendan Lynch, Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for South and Central Asia, at the Ministry of Commerce conference room, the minister said that every international agreement is built through coordination between two sides, aiming to ensure a “win-win” outcome.
He noted that the current government did not initiate the agreement but inherited it as part of state continuity. “A state agreement cannot be cancelled at will like a private contract. It is a reality, and we aim to use it effectively to expand trade and investment,” he said.
Referring to a recent U.S. investigation process, the minister said Bangladesh had sought clarification and responded with its observations. He added that it would have been more positive if such an investigation had not been initiated under the existing agreement framework.
Highlighting Bangladesh’s trade and production situation, Muktadir said the country does not suffer from overcapacity in any sector, and allegations of dumping are baseless. “We import most of our goods. Our export sector, particularly ready-made garments, operates under strict international compliance standards, with no scope for labour law violations or child labour,” he said.
On the question of revising or cancelling the agreement, the minister said the government always prioritises national interest. If any provision of an agreement is found inconsistent with Bangladesh’s interests, it can be amended through mechanisms already included in the deal, which he described as a “self-correcting element.”
He further said the agreement includes provisions for adjustment and revision, and therefore there is no need for excessive concern or alarm.
The meeting also discussed ways to strengthen Bangladesh–US trade and investment relations and other issues of mutual interest.
Senior officials, including the acting secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, Md. Abdur Rahim Khan, were present at the meeting.
