Dhaka, July 15 -- Commerce Adviser Sheikh Bashir Uddin has expressed optimism that the United States will adopt a "rational" approach to setting tariffs, as Bangladesh prepares for the third round of bilateral trade negotiations.

Speaking at a press conference in Dhaka on Monday, following his return from the second round of discussions in Washington DC, the adviser reaffirmed Bangladesh's commitment to maintaining strong trade ties with the US.

"We are hopeful the US will impose tariffs at a rational level," Uddin said, while noting that the details of the ongoing talks remain confidential due to a non-disclosure agreement between the two governments.

The high-stakes negotiations come amid concerns over a proposed 35 per cent tariff-o...