Trade Deal with Trump Administration Not Entirely Negative: Commerce Minister

Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir stated on Wednesday that he does not view the trade agreement with the Trump administration as entirely negative, suggesting it contains provisions that could bolster bilateral trade.

The Minister made the remarks following a meeting with US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, Paul Kapoor, at the Secretariat on March 4.

"The agreement includes several clauses that could expand trade between our two nations," Muktadir told reporters. He emphasized that the government remains open to feedback, adding, "If any stakeholder identifies unfavorable terms, they should bring them to the government's attention. There is always room for negotiation on specific clauses."

During the meeting, Assistant Secretary Paul Kapoor congratulated the newly formed government and reaffirmed the US government's commitment to collaboration.

According to the Minister, discussions also touched upon investment hurdles. Kapoor urged the government to remove non-tariff barriers to facilitate US investment, though the Minister clarified that the specific trade agreement was not the primary focus of today’s talks.