A delegation from the U.S. Embassy in Dhaka met with Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) President Mahmud Hasan Khan at the BGMEA Complex today to discuss ways to strengthen bilateral trade and cooperation.
Talks focused on increasing exports of Bangladeshi ready-made garments (RMG) to the U.S. market and expanding overall economic ties. The U.S. delegation included Labour Attaché Leena Khan, Foreign Commercial Service Attaché Paul G. Frost, and Foreign Agricultural Service Attaché Erin Covert.
BGMEA welcomed the move and sought clarity on the calculation formula and supply chain traceability mechanisms.
The meeting also explored establishing a warehouse near Chattogram Port to speed up cotton imports from the U.S., with options for a Bangladeshi, American, or joint venture initiative. BGMEA expressed interest in sourcing man-made fibers from the U.S. and requested more information. Potential collaboration with the U.S. Cotton Council was also discussed.
On energy, BGMEA voiced hope for future LNG imports from the United States. Labour rights received significant attention, with Mahmud Hasan Khan highlighting ongoing dialogue with 81 workers’ federations and progress on legal reforms.
The U.S. side stressed aligning Bangladesh’s labour laws with international standards and encouraged BGMEA to join SelectUSA in May 2026 to expand trade links. Both parties expressed optimism about deepening economic ties.