Commerce Adviser Sheikh Bashir Uddin has announced that Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus will initiate dialogue with the United States administration over the recently imposed 37% tariff on Bangladeshi goods.

Speaking at a press conference following an emergency meeting at the State Guest House Jamuna in Dhaka on Saturday evening, the adviser said the interim government is actively working to address the issue.

“We will also look to reduce the trade gap by increasing imports of essential items such as soybean oil and cotton,” Bashir Uddin said.

High Representative to the Chief Adviser, Khalilur Rahman, sought to allay concerns, stating, “There is nothing to be worried about the tariff imposed by the US.” He added that the government is continuing its dialogue with US officials to mitigate the impact.

The move comes amid rising anxiety within the country’s export sector, especially the readymade garment industry, which relies heavily on the US market. Bangladesh’s apparel exports to the US surged 26.64% in the first two months of 2025, but exporters fear the new tariff could erode competitiveness in the coming months.

Officials hope diplomatic engagement at the highest level will help ease trade tensions and protect the country’s vital export sector.