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Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman announced that the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) between Bangladesh and the United States is poised to attract foreign investment, bolster energy security, and elevate Bangladesh's standing in global supply chains. The agreement, signed on February 9, 2026, just days before the national election, offers significant tariff benefits for Bangladeshi garments produced with American cotton.

During a parliamentary session, Rahman explained that under the ART, apparel manufactured in Bangladesh using U.S. cotton will be eligible for zero tariffs. This provision is expected to be a key incentive for foreign investors. The government, through coordinated efforts involving the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA), Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA), and the Ministry of Commerce, is prioritizing expanding export markets, diversifying exports, attracting international investment, and fostering employment-driven economic growth.

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Under the agreement, Bangladeshi apparel made with US cotton will enjoy zero tariffs.

Beyond traditional markets in Europe and North America, Bangladesh is actively strengthening its commercial presence in emerging economies across the Middle East, Africa, Southeast Asia, South America, Central Asia, and Eastern Europe. To secure market access and preferential trade terms, Bangladesh is pursuing Preferential Trade Agreements (PTAs), Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), and Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs) with various nations. Negotiations for a CEPA with the United Arab Emirates have commenced, and discussions for FTAs with Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand are progressing. Additionally, Bangladesh is deepening its engagement with regional blocs like the GCC and MERCOSUR.

The minister also highlighted diplomatic successes in agriculture and non-traditional export sectors, citing recent access to the Vietnamese market for potatoes and ongoing efforts to export mangoes to Malaysia. In a separate response, Rahman affirmed the government's commitment to enhancing Bangladesh's global profile and supporting expatriate Bangladeshis. Initiatives are underway to strengthen and streamline the country's diplomatic infrastructure abroad, with plans to establish permanent diplomatic facilities in key locations as a long-term investment.

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The government is committed to strengthening Bangladesh’s global presence, advancing economic diplomacy, and serving expatriate Bangladeshis.