BTMA lauds US tariff reduction efforts

The Bangladesh Textile Mills Association (BTMA) has commended the recent breakthrough on tariff reduction during an official visit to Washington, DC, calling it a significant step forward for the country's textile industry.

The delegation, led by President Showkat Aziz Russell, extended appreciation to Commerce Adviser Sheikh Bashir Uddin and his team for their efforts in securing a significant reduction in US tariffs on RMG exports. 

This milestone marks a critical breakthrough for Bangladesh's export competitiveness and bilateral trade relations with the United States, reads a press release.

 During the high-level visit, BTMA member mills reaffirmed their commitment to deepening commercial ties with the US by pledging substantial imports of American cotton. 

The participating mills include: Mosharaf Composite Textile Mills Ltd, represented by Mosharaf Hossain, Asia Composite Mills Ltd, represented by Masud Rana and Salma Group, represented by Chowdhury Md Hanif Shoeb and Salma Chowdhury.

 The meeting was attended by National Security Adviser Khalilur Rahman, senior government officials, including Commerce Secretary Mahbubur Rahman and Additional Secretary (WTO Wing) of the Ministry of Commerce Nazneen Kawshar Chowdhury.

 An evening reception was hosted by DM Salahuddin Mahmud, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of the People's Republic of Bangladesh in Washington, D.C.

 Earlier that day, the delegation engaged in a dialogue with the president of the US Chamber of Commerce and representatives from prominent American business entities. 

The meeting was also attended by former US Ambassador to Bangladesh Peter D Haas.

During the sessions, American business leaders expressed strong interest in expanding trade and investment with Bangladesh. 

The adviser assured US counterparts of full support from the government of Bangladesh in fostering a conducive environment for mutual growth and cooperation.