Bangladeshi apparel entrepreneurs and a USA-based corporation, AmeriBangla, in a strategic discussion on Thursday highlighted the significant potential of utilizing US cotton as raw material in clothing production for American buyers. The potential move is seen as a robust opportunity to counter ongoing tariff challenges.

The discussion, held on Thursday at a Gulshan hotel, emphasized that direct cotton purchases from US farmers could offer highly affordable prices and popularize "Made in Bangladesh" products among US consumers.

The event drew prominent leaders from Bangladesh's Ready-Made Garment (RMG) sector, senior association representatives, and logistics company executives.

Aswar Rahman, CEO of AmeriBangla Corporation, presented an overview of US cotton production, underscoring the eagerness of US farmers to sell cotton directly to Bangladeshi buyers.

He also proposed the establishment of cotton warehouses in Dhaka or Chattogram to facilitate this trade.

Aswar pointed out that while tariff issues present challenges, they also create an opportunity for Bangladesh. He stressed that increasing the import and use of US materials, including cotton, is a crucial early step to popularize "Made in Bangladesh" in the USA and grow business with America.

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This timely private event comes amidst growing concern within Bangladesh’s RMG sector as government-to-government trade negotiations have yet to secure terms that adequately protect the country's vital export industry.

In response, AmeriBangla has launched an initiative to foster direct commercial partnerships between Bangladeshi garment exporters and American cotton farmers and processors.

"As a facilitator of cross-border partnerships, AmeriBangla Corporation is committed to building a strong and competitive US-Bangladesh trade relationship by building transparent, long-lasting and high-impact partnerships," stated Aswar Rahman.

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Representatives from various prominent groups, including Hamim Group, Jamuna Group, True Group, Saad Group, Divine Group, RPM Group, Marubini Group, and BKME, as well as Brigadier General (Rtd.) Ali Ahmed Khan, were among those who spoke at the event.