The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has warned that proposed new US tariffs could pose significant challenges to Bangladesh’s export sector. In its Asian Development Outlook, July 2026, the ADB said the measures would not only increase trade costs but also create long-term uncertainty across the Asian economy. According to the report, if the tariffs are implemented under Section 301 of the US Trade Act, effective tariff rates for South Asian countries could rise by an average of 1.2 percentage points. This could weaken the global competitiveness of Bangladesh’s ready-made garments and other export products. The proposed framework also includes additional tariffs of 10–12.5 percent on countries accused of failing to effectively prevent imports linked to forced labor. The ADB emphasized that strengthening labor law enforcement, improving compliance standards, and maintaining constructive trade relations with the United States will be essential for safeguarding Bangladesh’s export competitiveness.