Bangladesh plans to increase US cotton imports to avoid potential tariffs under the Trump administration, which has imposed high duties on various countries. Despite facing a 15.62% duty, Bangladesh’s exports to the US remain strong. Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain stated at a workshop in Dhaka that increasing US cotton imports could prevent trade restrictions. The government is considering bonded warehouse facilities for cotton ginners to lower costs by at least 10 cents per pound and improve supply efficiency. Bangladesh currently produces only 2% of its annual 90 lakh bales requirement but aims to meet 20% with proper policy support. Hossain proposed classifying cotton as an agricultural product to enable subsidies and soft loans. He also emphasized preparing for Bangladesh’s LDC graduation by meeting EU trade conditions. The workshop, organized by ERF and cotton industry stakeholders, highlighted the need for tax reforms and incentives to boost cotton production and trade.
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