DHAKA, March 12, 2024 (BSS) - The government has started the negotiation to sign the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) with Japan for retaining the duty benefit after Bangladesh's scheduled graduation to a developing nation in 2026.

State Minister for Commerce Ahsanul Islam Titu today formally announced the launching of the negotiation at a press conference at his ministry office in the city.

In his speech, Titu said the signing of the EPA with Japan will smoothen Bangladesh's LDC transition process.

He expressed hope that mutual trade and investment between the two countries will increase through EPA.

Ambassador of Japan to Bangladesh IWAMA Kiminori and Senior Commerce Secretary Tapan Kanti Ghosh also spoke on the occasion.

Tapan Kanti Ghosh said Bangladesh will face more than 18 percent duty on the export of goods after 2026, if the EPA is not signed.