A new study released by the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) estimates that the United States could collect over $1 billion annually in tariffs on Bangladeshi goods if additional tariffs are enforced.
The analysis was presented at a dialogue titled “Trump’s Reciprocal Tariffs: Implications for Bangladesh and Its Response,” held in Dhaka on Thursday, reports UNB.
The CPD found that the US currently imports 1,208 items from Bangladesh, while Bangladesh imports 2,515 items from the US. Despite importing fewer goods, the US collects significantly less per shipment—$927 compared to Bangladesh’s $2,215.
In 2024, Bangladesh exported over $8.45 billion worth of goods to the US, while importing around $2.53 billion.
CPD Distinguished Fellow Prof Mustafizur Rahman noted that Bangladesh applies an average duty of 6.2 percent on US imports, which, after rebates, falls to a weighted average of 2.2 percent. By contrast, the weighted average tariff on US imports from Bangladesh is 15.1 percent. Duties on apparel alone contribute $1.191 billion.
The CPD cautioned that rising tariffs could undermine Bangladesh’s export competitiveness, particularly against regional competitors like Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand. It urged authorities to explore strategic responses, including deeper engagement under the Trade and Investment Cooperation Forum Agreement (TICFA).
