The United States has decided to impose a 35% tariff on goods imported from Bangladesh, effective August 1, 2025. President Donald Trump communicated the decision in a letter addressed to Professor Muhammad Yunus, Bangladesh’s Chief Advisor. The letter was made public by Trump himself on July 7 via his social media platform, Truth Social. It was part of a series of letters sent to leaders of 14 countries detailing finalized tariff measures.
On July 8, Shafiqul Alam, Press Secretary to the Chief Advisor, confirmed the development via a post on his verified Facebook account. He noted that Dhaka is eager to sign a tariff agreement with Washington, aiming for what he described as “a win-win solution for both countries.”
“Discussions on the tariff issue are still ongoing,” Shafiqul Alam wrote. “Bangladesh’s Trade Advisor Sheikh Bashiruddin is leading the negotiations with the U.S. in Washington, D.C., with National Security Advisor Dr. Khalilur Rahman also part of the delegation.” According to the post, the Bangladesh government officially received President Trump’s letter the previous day, confirming the upcoming 35% tariff.
He further stated, “Several rounds of talks have already taken place, and another round is scheduled for July 9. Sheikh Bashiruddin will lead the next session of negotiations. Dhaka is hopeful about finalizing a tariff agreement with Washington that benefits both nations.”
In his letter, President Trump wrote, “Starting August 1, 2025, we will impose a 35% tariff on any goods sent from Bangladesh to the United States. If any product is rerouted through a third country to avoid the high tariff, it will face even steeper duties. However, if Bangladeshi companies decide to produce or manufacture within the United States, they will face no tariffs.”
Trump also issued a warning against retaliatory actions. “If Bangladesh decides to increase tariffs in response, that increment will be added on top of the existing 35% U.S. tariff,” the letter stated.
Negotiations between the two nations are ongoing as Bangladesh braces for potential economic ramifications and seeks a resolution through dialogue.
