Tariff cut 'satisfactory', says Khasru
The BNP leader pointed out that the full context behind the new tariff rates remains unclear
BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury has described the United States administration's decision to lower its reciprocal tariff on Bangladeshi products from 35% to 20% as a "satisfactory situation" for the country's export sector.
Speaking to journalists at his Gulshan residence today (1 August), the former commerce minister said, "This is not about winning or losing. With the new tariff, we are in a relatively satisfactory position in terms of competitiveness.
"We are at 20%, Pakistan is at 19%, Vietnam at 20%, and India at 25%. In that sense, I believe the overall tariff figure is satisfactory for competition. The tariff outcome with our competitors is fine," he explained.
Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel
However, the BNP leader pointed out that the full context behind the new tariff rates remains unclear.
"We don't know the overall details of the negotiation. We only know about the tariffs. We can comment on this once we know the details. Until we know what else had to be given in exchange for the reductions, we can't fully assess its impact," he said.
Khasru also urged the interim government to be completely transparent about the entire matter.
"Our trade is not just with America. We also export goods to other countries. We have to consider those, understand and review our standing," he added.
In response to a question, Khasru explained, "The issues behind the negotiation are part of a package. Many decisions were made. It wasn't just about how much the tariff was reduced.
When asked if the tariff reduction was linked to the recent announcement by the commerce secretary about purchasing 25 Boeing aircraft from the US, the senior BNP leader alleged, "Well, some things had to be done. The entire tariff issue from the US's side is in the interest of their own. That's why this additional tariff was imposed."
He stressed the importance of a holistic view, saying, "We must remember that this is not just about tariffs. The other issues involved must be considered collectively. That consideration is crucial for our future. But for now, I believe our exporters have found some relief."
