The European Union Chamber of Commerce in Bangladesh (EuroCham) urged the interim government to avoid discrimination against companies based in the bloc as Bangladesh weighs up substantial trade concessions for the United States.

The EuroCham raised its concern through a press release yesterday.

US President Donald Trump on April 2 announced an additional 37 percent tariff on imports from Bangladesh. However, on April 9, the US administration announced a 90-day pause on the tariffs.

Bangladesh's government said earlier that it was discussing ways to ease tariff barriers on US products in order to raise imports from the country.

"The EU is Bangladesh's largest and most reliable trading partner, accounting for half of all exports, with longstanding duty free and quota free preferential access granted to Bangladesh under the everything but Arms scheme since 2001," EuroCham said in a statement.

Bangladesh enjoys a notably higher trade surplus with the EU compared to its other trade partners.

Out of a total €22 billion trade in 2024, EU exports accounted for only €2 billion, resulting in a trade balance strongly in favour of Bangladesh.

Yet, high tariffs and non- tariff barriers hinder EU companies' efforts to do business with and export to Bangladesh.

EuroCham encouraged the government to reaffirm its commitment to a rules-based trading system and to pursue essential trade policy and customs reforms, while ensuring fair and equitable treatment for all trading partners.

EuroCham added that it stands ready to collaborate with the government in addressing current challenges and to support a smooth and sustainable transition in the post-LDC phase.