Bangladesh business leaders push trade and investment ties at SelectUSA 2026

A Bangladeshi delegation attending the SelectUSA Investment Summit 2026 in Washington, D.C. highlighted efforts to strengthen trade and investment ties between Bangladesh and the United States, with a focus on industrial resilience and supply chain stability.

The 25-member delegation was led by US Ambassador Brent T. Christensen and included representatives from Farmers Market Asia and Farmers Market USA. Delegates said the summit provided an opportunity to reinforce economic cooperation and address challenges facing Bangladesh’s industrial sector.

Focus on trade and financing

Participants discussed the impact of tightening global banking conditions on Bangladesh’s access to raw materials, particularly for export-oriented industries.

Representatives from Farmers Market Asia and Sindbad Capital outlined a financing framework aimed at supporting imports of key industrial inputs during periods of financial disruption.

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The Ready-Made Garment sector was a central focus of discussions. Delegates highlighted efforts to facilitate the import of US-origin cotton under the US-Bangladesh Reciprocal Trade Agreement, which supports zero-tariff access for apparel produced with American cotton.

High-level engagements

The delegation also held meetings with US officials and business representatives during the summit.

Discussions included talks with US Deputy Secretary Christopher Landau, Assistant Secretary of State Paul Kapur, and ExxonMobil executive Peter R Lavoy on trade cooperation, energy security and industrial development.

Bangladesh Ambassador Tareq Mohammad Ariful Islam promoted Bangladesh’s industrial progress and efforts to strengthen environmental, social and governance compliance to attract international business partnerships.

Delegates described the summit as part of broader efforts to deepen economic ties between Bangladesh and the United States and support long-term industrial growth.