Bangladesh could face a decline of up to $1.25 billion in exports to the United States if the current tariff regime remains unchanged, according to a recent study conducted by RAPID (Research and Policy Integration for Development).

The study highlights that high tariffs on Bangladeshi products, particularly in the apparel sector, are eroding the country’s competitiveness in the US market. Bangladesh faces some of the highest average tariffs among US trade partners, despite being a Least Developed Country (LDC).

Researchers argue that tariff reform or preferential trade access could significantly improve Bangladesh’s export performance. The study calls for active trade negotiations to secure better terms for Bangladeshi goods in the US market, especially as the country prepares for LDC graduation.