Truly, no new US tariff, says Commerce Minister 

Sylhet, July 24: Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir on Friday said the United States has not imposed any new tariff on Bangladeshi products, explaining that the previously announced duty is simply being replaced under a legal requirement.

Speaking to reporters after inaugurating a free medical camp on family planning, maternal and child healthcare, and eye care services for tea workers in Sylhet, the minister said the tariff situation actually remains unchanged.

"In reality, there has been no change in the tariff. The tariff previously imposed by the United States will expire after 150 days due to a legal requirement. Once that period ends, the new tariff will take effect," he said.

"It is not a new tariff. Rather, it can be described as a replacement," he added.

The Minister further said that even after midnight on Friday, the existing tariff would effectively remain in place, although it would be enforced under a different legal framework.

Responding to another question, he said the government has no immediate plan to increase domestic fuel prices despite the recent rise in global oil prices.

 The minister said the government is placing importance on improving education, healthcare and other social services in tea garden areas. The introduction of medical camps would enable tea workers to receive healthcare services within the estates instead of travelling to urban centres, he added.

Among others present at the event were Sylhet City Corporation Administrator Abdul Kaiyum Chowdhury, Sylhet Development Authority Chairman Rezaul Hasan Qayes Lodi, MP Emran Ahmed Chowdhury, Vice-Chancellor of Sylhet Medical University Prof. Dr. Ziaur Rahman Chowdhury, Sylhet Metropolitan BNP General Secretary Emdad Hossain, and officials from different levels of the administration.