The Bangladeshi government has approved the purchase of about 220,000 metric tons of U.S. wheat under a state-to-state agreement, part of a five-year framework that could rise to 700,000 tons annually. Officials said the deal aims to diversify food imports and reset trade relations with Washington after months of tariff friction.

A Singapore-based trader authorized by U.S. Wheat Associates will handle shipments, priced at around $308 per ton. Bangladesh has long relied on lower-cost Black Sea suppliers, but the move marks a deliberate pivot toward U.S. grain, reflecting Dhaka’s intent to balance food security with diplomatic leverage.

The new import arrangement follows the U.S. decision to cut proposed tariffs on Bangladeshi exports from 37 percent to 20 percent—an incentive that could strengthen the garment industry’s competitiveness. Dhaka is also authorizing the import of 50,000 tons of rice from India to stabilize domestic prices, indicating a dual-track strategy to secure staple supplies and maintain trade continuity.

Together, these steps suggest Bangladesh’s broader attempt to anchor key supply chains while improving its export footing with major partners.