Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir has called for accelerated export diversification, expanded market access, and increased investment flows to strengthen economic ties between Bangladesh and the United States.
Speaking at a programme titled “Strengthening US-Bangladesh Economic Partnership”, organised by the American Chamber of Commerce in Bangladesh (AmCham), the minister warned that Bangladesh’s export structure remains heavily dependent on the readymade garment (RMG) sector.
“Over-reliance on the readymade garments sector poses a structural risk to the economy,” he said, urging coordinated efforts to diversify exports.
The minister noted that the government has already identified several priority sectors for expansion, including pharmaceuticals, leather and leather goods, agricultural products, light engineering, and information and communication technology (ICT).
Highlighting Bangladesh’s demographic advantage, he said the country’s young and skilled workforce is playing a key role in driving growth in the ICT sector and digital economy.
Muktadir also stressed the importance of securing preferential market access ahead of Bangladesh’s graduation from least developed country (LDC) status. He said the government has proposed a three-year extension, targeting a transition timeline of November 2029, and called for continued cooperation from the United States to ensure a smooth graduation process.
On investment, the minister acknowledged that while US capital—particularly in the energy sector—has contributed meaningfully, overall American investment remains below potential. He pointed to fluctuations in US foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows as a sign of the need to strengthen investor confidence.
He further emphasised the role of technology transfer, identifying the United States as a key partner in areas such as artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and advanced ICT services. Opportunities for collaboration also exist in fintech, e-commerce, and other digital service sectors, he added.
AmCham President Syed Ershad Ahmed delivered the welcome address, while US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T. Christensen attended as special guest. Both highlighted the importance of deepening bilateral trade and investment ties.
The discussion comes at a time when Bangladesh is seeking to broaden its economic base and enhance resilience amid evolving global trade dynamics.
