Bangladesh Boosts Boeing Order Amid Tariff Talks

The government of Bangladesh has increased its aircraft order from Boeing to 25 units, up from an initial 14, in a strategic move aimed at easing proposed U.S. export tariffs. The decision comes as part of ongoing negotiations with the Trump administration to lower or potentially eliminate a looming 35% tariff on Bangladeshi goods, set to take effect on August 1, 2025.

According to a report by Bdnews24, the expanded order is intended to help reduce Bangladesh’s trade deficit with the United States. In return, the country hopes to secure tariff relief similar to or better than rates offered to regional competitors. Bangladesh Commerce Secretary Mahbubur Rahman noted that while India has agreed to a 26% tariff and Vietnam to 20%, Bangladesh is seeking more favorable terms. “We do not believe the US will impose a higher duty on us compared to our competitors,” he stated.

The aircraft deal is also part of a broader effort to modernize and expand the fleet of Biman Bangladesh Airlines, the country’s national carrier. Currently operating 19 aircraft—including Boeing 737s, 777s, and 787 Dreamliners, along with Dash 8-400 turboprops—Biman is targeting a fleet more than twice its current size over the next decade.

“We immediately need some aircraft, possibly within the next couple of years,” said Rahman. “Expanding Biman’s fleet has been part of the government’s long-term plan. This year, in the context of the tariff issue, we’ve placed fresh orders.” He added that other countries such as India and Vietnam have also used large Boeing orders to improve trade relations with the U.S., with Indonesia placing an order for 50 aircraft.

While the move is being framed as a national strategy, there appears to be a disconnect at the airline level. Rowshan Kabir, a spokesperson for Biman Bangladesh Airlines, told The Business Standard that the airline is “not aware about this matter,” suggesting that the deal may still be in early or government-controlled stages rather than formally coordinated with the carrier.

The delivery timeline for the 25 aircraft remains uncertain. Rahman noted that Boeing typically fulfills earlier orders first and will supply new aircraft based on production capacity and scheduling. The order is expected to span several years, with deliveries aligning with the manufacturer’s global backlog.

If successful, the deal could serve both economic and aviation goals, reducing tariff pressures while enabling Biman to meet growing demand for international and domestic air travel. As the August 1 tariff deadline approaches, Bangladesh is banking on its expanded Boeing order to not only secure better trade terms but also position its aviation industry for long-term growth.

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