Writ Challenges Bangladesh-US Trade Agreement Legality

A writ petition has been filed with the High Court challenging the validity of the Reciprocal Trade Agreement between Bangladesh and the United States.

Lawyer Mohammad Moidul Islam Palak filed the petition on Monday (May 4), and it was presented in court by Advocate Subir Nandi Das.

The petition argues that the agreement is unreasonable and contrary to Bangladesh’s national interest. It names the secretaries of the ministries of foreign affairs, finance and commerce as respondents.

According to the writ, the agreement fails to protect Bangladesh’s economic sovereignty and public welfare. It also alleges that constitutional procedures were not properly followed during its approval.

The petition further raises concerns about unequal tariff structures, reduced policy-making independence, and potential harm to domestic industries, agriculture and the environment.