US Gives Bangladesh 19% Tariff Gift, India at 18%: A Strategic Move?

• The US announced a 19% preferential tariff for Bangladesh's exports, comparable to Pakistan's and slightly higher than India's 18%.
• Bangladesh's interim government head, Mohammed Yunus, confirmed the deal, which includes zero reciprocal tariffs for textile and apparel using US-produced cotton/fibers.
• The agreement, signed after nine months of negotiations, extends beyond textiles to include Bangladesh importing US wheat, soybeans, LNG, and adhering to US IPR standards.
• Bangladesh also agreed to purchase 25 Boeing aircraft, estimated at 30,000-35,000 crore Taka (approx. 26,000 crore INR).
• This deal is seen as a strategic move by the US to maintain influence in South Asia, especially with Bangladesh's upcoming general elections.