Commerce Adviser Sk Bashir Uddin has said Bangladesh is pressing for a reduction of the United States’ reciprocal tariff on its goods to 15%, after securing a cut from 35% to 20% earlier this month.

Speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday following a meeting on export targets for FY 2025-26, Mr Bashir said discussions with Washington were ongoing. The current 20% rate came into effect on 1 August after final negotiations in Washington from 29-31 July.

He emphasised that the reduction was achieved without offering concessions detrimental to Bangladesh’s economy. The adviser added that the government plans to address the trade deficit with the US by increasing imports of American food and agricultural products.

“We remain optimistic about achieving the 15% rate, as the government has already taken necessary initiatives on the issue,” he said.

Mr Bashir also highlighted efforts to secure greater duty-free access for Bangladeshi exports to the UK and the European Union.

The meeting was attended by Commerce Secretary Mahbubur Rahman, senior ministry officials, and representatives from state agencies and trade bodies.