The United Kingdom will maintain 92 percent of duty-free access for Bangladesh’s exports to its market, extending beyond the current trade preference framework, UK trade envoy Rosie Winterton recently affirmed at the Bangladesh Investment Summit 2025 in Dhaka. Bangladesh currently enjoys duty-free and quota-free access to the UK market until 2029.
The UK Developing Countries Trading Scheme aims to encourage Bangladesh to diversify its exports to the UK, moving beyond garments and establishing a more secure economic foundation as the country prepares to graduate from least developed country status next year, as reported by media outlets in Bangladesh. The apparel and textile sector remains a critical component of Bangladesh’s economy, driving significant export revenue.
“I am also pleased that his Majesty’s revenue of customs will be providing capacity-building support to the customs way of the National Ward of revenue to enhance trade facilitation…taken together, these initiatives constitute significant UK contributions for Bangladesh’s LDC graduation,” she stated.
The envoy noted that the UK is collaborating with the interim government in Bangladesh to address key priorities such as restoring law and order, ensuring accountability, and fostering national unity. This collaboration is essential for strengthening UK-Bangladesh trade relations as both nations work towards mutual economic goals. As the UK-Bangladesh Trade Relations continue to evolve, both countries are poised to benefit from enhanced cooperation and trade opportunities.
