U.S. Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T. Christensen visited the BGMEA Complex in Uttara on 08 March 2026 and held a meeting with BGMEA President Mahmud Hasan Khan and members of the BGMEA Board of Directors.

The discussion focused on enhancing bilateral trade and economic cooperation between Bangladesh and the United States. Key topics included U.S. investment in Bangladesh’s energy sector, labour-related issues, tariff policies, and opportunities to expand trade and investment partnerships.

BGMEA sought clarification on the mechanism for duty concessions on garments produced using U.S. cotton. Ambassador Christensen noted that the United States Trade Representative (USTR) is currently working on the matter and described the recent trade arrangement as very positive for Bangladesh, highlighting that Bangladesh is the first country to receive this special opportunity.

During the meeting, BGMEA emphasized the importance of greater U.S. investment in Bangladesh’s energy sector, particularly in LNG infrastructure and domestic gas exploration, to support the country’s rapidly growing industrial base.

The two sides also discussed labour reforms, the proposed labour ordinance, visa facilitation for garment entrepreneurs, and sustainable manufacturing initiatives.