A legal challenge has been brought before the High Court questioning the validity of the recently signed reciprocal trade agreement between Bangladesh and the United States, with the petition describing the deal as structurally unequal and potentially harmful to national interests.
The writ was filed on Monday by Supreme Court lawyers Mohammad Maidul Islam Polok and Subir Nandi Das in the public interest. It argues that the agreement fails to adequately safeguard Bangladesh’s economic sovereignty and public welfare.
According to the petition, the trade arrangement was concluded without proper adherence to constitutional and procedural requirements. It also claims that the framework of the agreement places Bangladesh at a disadvantage by creating an uneven tariff structure between the two countries.
The lawyers further allege that such imbalances could limit Bangladesh’s ability to independently shape its economic policies in the future. They warned that key domestic sectors, including industry, agriculture, and environmental protection, may face adverse consequences if the agreement is implemented in its current form.
Secretaries from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Finance, and Commerce have been named as respondents in the case.
The trade agreement in question was originally signed on 9 February 2026 between Bangladesh and the United States, aiming to enhance bilateral economic cooperation. However, the latest legal move has placed the deal under judicial review, raising questions over its structure and approval process.
The High Court is yet to schedule a hearing on the matter.
