Bangladesh to Acquire 25 Boeing Aircraft Amid Strategic Trade Talks with US
Fleet expansion aligns with national aviation goals and strengthens trade diplomacy with Washington
In a significant move tied to ongoing trade negotiations, Bangladesh has confirmed plans to purchase 25 aircraft from Boeing, strengthening both its aviation capabilities and bilateral ties with the United States. The announcement was made by Commerce Secretary Mahbubur Rahman on Sunday, signaling the country’s commitment to expanding its aviation fleet while addressing tariff-related concerns.
Some of the aircraft are expected to be delivered within the next one to two years, supporting the growth of Bangladesh’s national carrier and overall aviation sector. This development aligns with the government’s long-term plan to enhance fleet capacity and improve international connectivity.
A high-level Bangladeshi delegation is set to depart for Washington on Monday to engage in direct discussions with US trade officials on July 29–30. These talks are critical, as both sides aim to reach a resolution on counter tariffs before the August 1 deadline.
Clarifying the nature of the deal, the Commerce Secretary noted that while Boeing is a private corporation, such acquisitions reflect strategic economic collaboration. Bangladesh previously had 14 aircraft on order; the figure has now been raised to 25 as part of a broader diplomatic and aviation agenda. Similar large-scale orders have been placed by other nations, including India, Vietnam, and Indonesia.
The initiative comes as the US seeks to reduce its $1.3 trillion global trade deficit, in part through the imposition of counter tariffs—prompting nations like Bangladesh to pursue balanced, mutually beneficial trade strategies.