Bangladesh can take advantage of Trump’s trade policies: Speakers

Bangladesh has the opportunity to benefit from US President Donald Trump's trade policies, according to speakers at a discussion meeting held in Dhaka today.

They noted that while some countries are now facing additional taxes to access the US market, Bangladesh has not been affected by such measures so far and can take this as an opportunity.

The views were shared at the discussion titled "America-Bangladesh Relations in the Trump Era," organised by the International Business Forum of Bangladesh (IBFB) at its office in the capital's Tejgaon.

Former US ambassador to Bangladesh William B Milam, who is also the president of Right to Freedom, highlighted the lack of recent partnerships between the US and Bangladesh despite American investments in various sectors including energy.

Mentioning that he has known Bangladesh for the last 40 years, Milam said, "In the past 15 years, no significant partnerships have been developed between the two countries. 

"However, reforms, institutional development of democratic practice, and sustainable transaction of democracy will help Bangladesh build ties with US businesses, government, and the private sector."

He also praised the Bangladeshi people and their sacrifices in July and August to transform the country on the democratic path as well as the right to vote.

Jon F Danilowicz, executive director of Right to Freedom, stressed the importance of business-to-business connections in fostering trade and investment between the two countries. 

He also said, "US Indo-Pacific policy and other trade and regional issues will not affect Bangladesh, rather Bangladesh has a lot of opportunities to develop a partnership with the US."

Speakers at the event emphasised the long-standing trade and development ties between the United States and Bangladesh. 

They highlighted the importance of adapting to evolving US policies to further enhance economic and diplomatic relations.

Dr Asif M Shahan, professor of Development Studies at the University of Dhaka, and Ambassador Humayun Kabir, president of the Bangladesh Enterprise Institute (BEI) also spoke at the discussion, among others.

Former principal secretary Md Abdul Karim, former ambassador Mahbub Uz Zaman, and former ambassador Shahed Akter were also present at the event among many distinguished guests.  

Lufunnisa Saudia Khan, president of IBFB, presided over the meeting, which brought together a number of former diplomats, academicians, and trade experts.

The IBFB is a non-partisan, research-driven organisation dedicated to improving Bangladesh's business climate. As a bridge between policymakers and the private sector, the IBFB advocates for policy reforms, tackles economic challenges, and promotes investment.