Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman told Parliament that Bangladesh has recently signed an Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) with the United States. The deal ensures zero-duty benefits for garments made from US cotton and is expected to strengthen Bangladesh’s position in global supply chains while attracting foreign investment and enhancing energy security.

He said expanding export markets, diversifying exports, attracting international investment, and achieving employment-oriented growth are key government priorities. The government is emphasizing economic diplomacy to engage local entrepreneurs in global trade and boost economic dynamism through foreign investment. Relevant agencies, including BIDA, BEZA, and the Ministry of Commerce, are working together toward these goals.

The minister added that Bangladesh is pursuing trade agreements such as PTAs, FTAs, and CEPAs with several countries, including the UAE, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand, while also seeking stronger ties with regional blocs like GCC and Mercosur. He also noted new export opportunities for agricultural products, such as potatoes to Vietnam and ongoing efforts to export mangoes to Malaysia.