US cotton could be a strategic solution for Bangladesh's apparel exports amid tariff concerns: AmeriBangla
US cotton, while priced 5–6 cents higher per pound than imports from India, West Africa, or Brazil, offers a major quality and compliance advantage, Aswar says
Bangladeshi apparel entrepreneurs and a USA-based corporation, AmeriBangla, in a strategic discussion on Thursday highlighted the significant potential of utilising US cotton as raw material in clothing production for American buyers. The potential move is seen as a robust opportunity to counter ongoing tariff challenges.
The discussion, held at a Gulshan hotel, emphasised that direct cotton purchases from US farmers could offer highly affordable prices and popularise "Made in Bangladesh" products among US consumers.
The event drew prominent leaders from Bangladesh's Ready-Made Garment (RMG) sector, senior association representatives, and logistics company executives.
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Aswar Rahman, CEO of AmeriBangla Corporation, presented an overview of US cotton production, underscoring the eagerness of US farmers to sell cotton directly to Bangladeshi buyers.
He also proposed the establishment of cotton warehouses in Dhaka or Chattogram to facilitate this trade.
Aswar pointed out that while tariff issues present challenges, they also create an opportunity for Bangladesh. He stressed that increasing the import and use of US materials, including cotton, is a crucial early step to popularise "Made in Bangladesh" in the USA and grow business with America.
Aswar Rahman told attendees that US cotton, while priced 5–6 cents higher per pound than imports from India, West Africa, or Brazil, offers a major quality and compliance advantage.
"US cotton waste is under 2%, compared to 10% elsewhere," he said. "That waste translates directly into production loss. And the traceability of our cotton gives exporters a significant compliance edge in Western markets."
Local textile leaders, however, remain cautious.
"We welcome collaboration, but we need clear assurances on long-term pricing," a senior garment manufacturer warned. "Otherwise, we risk becoming dependent and vulnerable to future price manipulation."
This event comes amid growing concern within Bangladesh's RMG sector as government-to-government trade negotiations have yet to secure terms that adequately protect the country's vital export industry.
Representatives from various prominent groups, including Hamim Group, Jamuna Group, True Group, Saad Group, Divine Group, RPM Group, Marubini Group, and BKME were among those who spoke at the event.
