Bangladesh to Shift from Indian to U.S. Cotton After Trade Deal
11-Feb-2026 10:13 AM
Bangladesh to Shift from Indian to U.S. Cotton After Trade Deal
★ Following the signing of the U.S.–Bangladesh trade deal on February 9, 2026, Bangladesh has indicated that it will prioritize importing U.S.-produced cotton instead of Indian cotton. The interim government in Dhaka described the agreement as a strategic breakthrough.
★ Shafiqul Alam, Information Adviser to Chief Adviser Mohammed Yunus, called the deal a “game changer,” stating that it would provide Bangladesh with improved and broader access to the U.S. market. The shift in cotton sourcing is seen as part of efforts to strengthen Bangladesh’s garment exports, which are heavily dependent on raw material imports.
★ However, economist Professor Selim Jehan of BRAC University cautioned that Bangladesh must ensure the quality and competitiveness of U.S. cotton. He emphasized that pricing and fiber quality will be crucial to maintaining the efficiency and global competitiveness of the country’s textile and apparel industry.
★ If implemented on a large scale, the move could impact Indian cotton exports, particularly at a time when regional competition in the textile supply chain is intensifying.