U.S. Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T. Christensen visited the BGMEA Complex in Uttara on Tuesday and held discussions with Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) President Mahmud Hasan Khan and members of the BGMEA Board of Directors on strengthening bilateral trade and economic cooperation.
The meeting focused on expanding trade ties between Bangladesh and the United States, particularly in the ready-made garment (RMG) sector, which remains the backbone of Bangladesh’s export economy.
During the discussion, BGMEA leaders sought clarification on the mechanism for potential duty concessions on garments produced using U.S. cotton. Ambassador Christensen said the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) is currently working on the framework and described the development as a positive opportunity for Bangladesh.
He noted that Bangladesh is the first country to receive such a trade opportunity involving garments produced with U.S. cotton, which could further deepen trade cooperation between the two countries.
BGMEA representatives emphasized the need for greater U.S. investment in Bangladesh’s energy sector to support the country’s rapidly expanding industrial base, particularly in the garment and textile industries.
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They highlighted opportunities for collaboration in liquefied natural gas (LNG) infrastructure and domestic gas exploration, saying reliable energy supply remains crucial for sustaining the growth of export-oriented manufacturing.
The meeting also covered labour-related issues and ongoing labour reforms, including discussions around the proposed labour ordinance and efforts to strengthen workplace standards in the garment sector.
Visa facilitation for Bangladeshi garment entrepreneurs traveling to the United States was also discussed, with BGMEA stressing the importance of easier access to support business engagement with international buyers and partners.
Both sides further exchanged views on sustainable manufacturing initiatives and the growing importance of environmental and social compliance in the global apparel supply chain.
Officials at the meeting expressed optimism that stronger cooperation between Bangladesh and the United States could create new opportunities for trade expansion, investment and technology transfer in the coming years.
