AmCham urges stronger Bangladesh-US trade ties

They highlighted the remarkable growth in trade ties, noting that the volume has surged from around $1 billion in the mid-1990s to over $11 billion today. 

They made the remarks at the luncheon meeting titled, “Advancing U.S. - Bangladesh Economic Partnership” on April 28, 2026, organised by the American Chamber of Commerce in Bangladesh (AmCham) at the Sheraton Hotel in the city. 

The event was graced by Khandakar Abdul Muktadir, Minister of the Ministry of Commerce, as the Chief Guest.

US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T. Christensen who attended as the Special Guest, and underscored the importance of Bangladesh–United States economic engagement. 


The luncheon was presided over by AmCham President Syed Ershad Ahmed, alongside members of the AmCham Executive Committee. 

The gathering also included senior representatives from the Ministry, members of the diplomatic corps, officials from regulatory authorities, leading business figures, AmCham members, and other guests reflecting a broad and influential cross-section of stakeholders engaged in Bangladesh’s economic and trade landscape. 

The event was supported by Colgate-Palmolive, Excelerate Energy, Omera LPG, Air Alliance Limited (UPS), Saber Travels, and Beyond Innovations & Technologies Limited.

In his speech, Khandakar Abdul Muktadir emphasized strengthening economic ties through export diversification, expanded market access and increased investment flows.

 The minister added that the government is prioritizing sectors such as pharmaceuticals, leather goods, agricultural products, light engineering and ICT to broaden the export base. 

He also sought continued US support for Bangladesh's smooth graduation from least developed country (LDC) status, noting that Dhaka has proposed extending the transition period and is targeting November 2029 for graduation.

Speaking at the event, Syed Ershad Ahmed said that Bangladesh’s exports to the U.S. stood at approximately $9.5 billion in 2025, with the ready-made garment (RMG) sector contributing $8.2 billion. 

Bangladesh captured more than 10 percent of the U.S. apparel market, underlining its strong competitiveness in the global supply chain, he added.

He said that the US exports to Bangladesh totalled about $2.3 billion, comprising key industrial inputs such as cotton and soy-based products. 

The AmCham President said the bilateral trade relationship continues to demonstrate resilience amid shifting global economic dynamics and supply chain realignments. 

He emphasized that future growth should be anchored in sustainable and inclusive development, integrating environmental responsibility with economic expansion.

Highlighting AmCham’s role beyond trade facilitation, he noted that initiatives such as the U.S. Trade Show have contributed to promoting international business standards and innovation in Bangladesh.

Calling for stronger collaboration, the AmCham leadership urged a multi stakeholder approach involving government agencies, the private sector, and international partners to unlock new investment opportunities and deepen economic engagement.


The luncheon also featured an interactive Q & A session with the Commerce Minister and U.S. Ambassador, where they engaged directly with AmCham members and guests.

 The discussion facilitated a constructive exchange of insights and information, addressing key concerns and opportunities relevant to the business community, reports BSS.