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Bangladesh’s Exports to the US Will Rise, Not Fall: Press Secretary

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Published At: 09:32:51pm, 07 April 2025

Updated At : 09:32:51pm, 07 April 2025

Photo: Collected

ছবি: Photo: Collected

Dhaka, April 7 – Amid growing concerns among exporters about the future of Bangladesh’s trade relations with the United States, Press Secretary to the Prime Minister's Principal Secretary, Shafiqul Alam, has stated that exports to the US market will not decline—in fact, they are expected to increase. Speaking at a press briefing on Monday at the InterContinental Hotel in Dhaka, Alam emphasized that there is no reason for panic regarding the US export market.

He reiterated the government's commitment to supporting the country’s export sector and highlighted that proactive measures are being taken to ensure growth, particularly in key markets like the United States.

“There is no need to be alarmed. We are repeatedly saying that steps will be taken to ensure Bangladesh’s exports increase, not decrease,” he said in response to questions from journalists.

Alam also spoke about a high-level meeting held on April 6 with leading business figures, aimed at addressing concerns and reinforcing confidence among exporters. The meeting included former BGMEA President Faruque Hassan, BKMEA Executive President Mohammad Hatem, and other prominent business leaders such as Tapan Chowdhury, Nasim Manzur, and Lubna Haque.

According to the Press Secretary, the government used the occasion to reassure industry leaders that it is actively working on policies that will secure and expand Bangladesh’s access to global markets, including the US. “We assured them that steps being taken by the government will lead to an increase in exports rather than a decline,” he added.

In his briefing, Alam also referred to a letter recently sent to the President of the United States, calling it a significant diplomatic gesture. He described the letter as a “big message,” although he did not disclose further details about its contents. The implication, however, is that Bangladesh is actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to maintain and strengthen trade ties with the US.

The backdrop to these reassurances comes amid international scrutiny and speculation about potential shifts in trade dynamics due to geopolitical developments and policy adjustments. Exporters have been seeking clarity and assurance from the government, especially regarding the ready-made garments sector, which remains the backbone of Bangladesh’s economy and a major contributor to its US-bound exports.

The Press Secretary's statements appear to be part of a broader effort by the government to manage public perception and business sentiment in a sensitive time. With global supply chains evolving rapidly and trade preferences shifting, maintaining stable access to the US market is viewed as a key priority by both the public and private sectors in Bangladesh.

Industry insiders present at the April 6 meeting were reportedly satisfied with the government's response and expressed optimism about future export trends. The government has indicated that it is in ongoing dialogue with key international partners to ensure that Bangladesh’s economic interests are protected and promoted.

Shafiqul Alam concluded the briefing by stressing that the administration remains fully aware of the importance of the US market and will continue to work in close collaboration with exporters to open new opportunities and resolve any challenges that arise.

As the situation develops, stakeholders across the business community will likely be looking for follow-through on these commitments and concrete policy actions aimed at bolstering Bangladesh’s trade position globally.

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