US Envoy Explains Key Aspects of Bangladesh–US Trade Agreement

The United States Ambassador to Bangladesh, Brent T. Christensen, has outlined important elements of a proposed trade agreement between Bangladesh and the United States, emphasizing efforts to reduce tariff and non-tariff barriers and promote balanced bilateral trade.

He made these remarks on Tuesday while speaking as a special guest at a luncheon hosted by the American Chamber of Commerce in Bangladesh in Dhaka.

Ambassador Christensen highlighted that Bangladesh is taking steps to remove trade barriers under the agreement, which is expected to increase imports from the United States and help reduce the existing trade imbalance between the two countries.

He noted that countries exporting to the US while relying on other nations for imports often create long-term trade deficits. “If you want to sell products to us, you should also try to buy from us,” he said.

Under the agreement, Bangladesh has committed to importing around $3.5 billion worth of US agricultural products, including wheat, soybeans, cotton, and corn. Additionally, the country plans to import approximately $15 billion worth of energy products from the US over the next 15 years.

The ambassador also addressed concerns about higher prices of US wheat, pointing out its superior quality. He said spoilage rates for US wheat are significantly lower—around 2.5% compared to nearly 20% from other sources—and protein content is higher, reaching up to 14%.

Christensen emphasized Bangladesh’s strategic position in South Asia and its potential to become a major manufacturing hub in the 21st century. He noted that achieving the country’s energy goals will require an estimated $180 billion investment by 2050.

US companies such as Chevron, Excelerate Energy, and GE Vernova have shown interest in investing in Bangladesh’s energy sector.

He also highlighted Bangladesh’s growing digital economy, with over 100 million internet users, creating opportunities for collaboration with major US tech firms like Starlink, Google Pay, Oracle, and Microsoft.

According to the ambassador, the agreement signals a shift from aid-based relations to a framework driven by trade and investment, prioritizing mutual economic growth and job creation in both countries.

Bangladesh’s Commerce Minister, Khandaker Abdul Muktadir, who attended the event as the chief guest, stressed the importance of diversifying the country’s export base. He noted that Bangladesh’s heavy reliance on the ready-made garments sector—particularly exports to the US—poses a significant risk.

He added that while US investment in Bangladesh’s energy sector has been positive, overall investment remains limited. However, he sees strong potential for collaboration in artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and ICT sectors.

Both sides view the proposed agreement as a strategic step toward strengthening economic ties, boosting trade balance, and unlocking new opportunities for investment and growth.