Workshop for Journalists on Implications of U.S. Reciprocal Tariffs and LDC Graduation: Concerns & Options for Bangladesh

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On 16 September 2025, Research and Policy Integration for Development (RAPID), with support from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), organized a workshop for journalists aimed at strengthening their capacity to deliver nuanced, evidence-based coverage of Bangladesh’s economic landscape. Held at the CIRDAP Auditorium, the workshop focused on the dual challenges confronting Bangladesh: the reciprocal tariffs recently imposed by the United States and the country’s upcoming graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status on 24 November 2026. The discussions highlighted Bangladesh’s current economic vulnerabilities under new tariff regimes and examined the potential impacts of reciprocal tariffs. Participants were also introduced to common approaches for conducting ex-ante analyses of trade policy impacts, providing them with methodological insights to better interpret future developments. In addition, the workshop explored the implications of LDC graduation, outlining the major challenges that Bangladesh is expected to face in the post-graduation period. It was emphasized that securing an extension of the LDC transition period would be extremely difficult for Bangladesh, given the complex international processes involved. Policy recommendations to mitigate potential risks and support a smooth transition were also presented. The opening remarks were delivered by Dr M Abu Eusuf, Executive Director of RAPID and Professor at the University of Dhaka, who also moderated the session. The session was facilitated by Dr M A Razzaque, Chairman of RAPID. Ms Doulot Akter Mala, President of the Economic Reporters' Forum (ERF), as the guest of honor, and Mr Mahbubur Rahman, Hon’ble Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, as the chief guest, also attended the workshop, respectively, and shared their perspectives on these pressing issues.

Event Report here.

Media Report here.