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Economist Anu Muhammad has called for the cancellation of a trade deal signed between Bangladesh and the United States, urging the government to avoid implementing any clauses without parliamentary discussion. Speaking at a protest rally in Dhaka, organized by the recently formed civic rights group Gonotantrik Odhikar Committee, Muhammad described the agreement as a "directive prepared by the US administration."

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the agreement forces Bangladesh to import "unnecessary" items, including LNG at "inflated" prices, undermining energy security.

The former Jahangirnagar University professor voiced strong criticism of the deal, which was signed on February 9. He argued that it forces Bangladesh to import "unnecessary" goods, such as liquefied natural gas (LNG) at "inflated" prices, thereby undermining the nation's energy security. Muhammad also referred to the document as "Trump’s order paper," highlighting that it imposes obligations on Bangladesh and threatens punitive actions for non-compliance.

Muhammad warned that the agriculture, poultry, and dairy sectors could face "devastation" as Bangladesh would be compelled to accept US standards without conducting its own quality tests. He alleged that the implementation has already begun with purchases of Boeing aircraft and LNG imports, calling for nationwide resistance. He further criticized the government, stating it has shown "no proof of sovereignty" and is subservient to international powers.

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a directive prepared by the US administration

"The current government is elected by the people. The people elected Tarique Rahman. Yet the country is being run by the US, the Trump administration, the IMF, and corporate interests. This cannot continue. Those elected must be held accountable. The government is bound to answer to the people," Muhammad stated. He suggested that since a US court has declared Trump's tariff structure illegal, Bangladesh should exit the deal if it possesses "minimal backbone, responsibility, and commitment rooted in the Liberation War."

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Trump’s order paper

The rally also saw demands for the trial of those responsible for signing the deal, with Muhammad specifically naming "Yunus-led interim government" figures like Khalilur Rahman. A written statement from platform member Moshahida Sultana claimed the interim government signed the deal "beyond its jurisdiction" before the 13th National Election, posing a "grave threat" to national security. Further protests are planned for early July.

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agriculture, poultry, and dairy sectors face devastation, as Bangladesh must accept US standards without conducting its own quality tests.