president of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), Mahmud Hasan Khan, has played down concerns over a recent US investigation into Bangladeshâs readymade garment sector, saying that even a potential tariff increase would not pose a major challenge to the countryâs key export industry.
His remarks came after an announcement from the office of Jemison Greer on Wednesday (March 11, 2026), stating that the United States would launch investigations into the garment industries of 16 countries, including Bangladesh.
The inquiry will be conducted under Section 301 of the US Trade Act of 1974 to determine whether there are irregularities, labour rights concerns, illegal subsidies, or intellectual property violations in the apparel sectors of the listed nations.
Speaking to the media, Khan described the inclusion of Bangladesh in the probe list as âillogical,â suggesting that the move may be driven more by protectionist interests aimed at safeguarding US domestic manufacturers rather than by genuine concerns over Bangladeshâs garment industry.
âBangladesh has long maintained a strong competitive position in the US market due to its quality standards, cost-effective production and reliable delivery,â he said. âEven if tariffs are increased following the investigation, it is unlikely to create a major crisis for the industry.â
According to officials, the investigation will examine several major garment-producing countries, including China, India, Vietnam, Indonesia and Cambodia, as well as others such as Mexico, South Korea and Japan.
The probe aims to determine whether any unfair trade practices or regulatory violations in these countriesâ garment sectors are affecting US trade interests.
Reiterating the industryâs compliance, the BGMEA chief said Bangladeshâs apparel sector does not benefit from illegal subsidies or engage in irregular practices.
âThe possibility of any allegations being proven against Bangladesh is very low,â he added.
However, acknowledging the importance of the US as one of the worldâs largest consumer markets and a key destination for Bangladeshâs apparel exports, Khan urged the government to remain proactive. He called on the Ministry of Commerce Bangladesh to maintain close coordination with US authorities to effectively address the investigation and minimise any potential risks to the countryâs leading export sector.
