Sylhet, Jul 24 (V7N)- Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir has said that the latest US tariff measures will not bring any change to Bangladesh’s existing trade situation, describing the move as a replacement of previous tariffs rather than the imposition of new ones.
He made the remarks after inaugurating a day-long free medical camp, family planning and child care programme for tea workers at Lakkatura in Sylhet on Friday (July 24) afternoon.
The Commerce Minister said the United States has not introduced any additional tariffs on Bangladesh or other countries. Instead, due to legal requirements, the previous tariff arrangements have been given a new name.
"Actually, there has been no change in the tariff situation. The tariffs imposed earlier by the US will expire after 150 days due to legal obligations, and the new tariffs will come into effect after that," he said.
He added that the latest measures should not be considered new tariffs, but rather a continuation under a different framework. According to him, the previous tariffs will remain effective after midnight Friday, although under a revised name.
Meanwhile, Khandaker Abdul Muktadir said the government has no immediate plan to increase fuel oil prices in Bangladesh despite rising global oil prices.
Earlier, the United States announced new tariff measures on around 60 trading partner countries, including Bangladesh. The move was reportedly linked to allegations of failure to prevent forced labour practices. Under the new arrangement, some countries face a 10 percent tariff, while others may face rates of up to 12.5 percent.
The new tariffs are scheduled to take effect from Friday after the expiration of a temporary 10 percent tariff imposed earlier this year.
END/SMA/AJ
