Bangladesh has won a big chance to grow its clothing exports after Japan agreed to give duty-free access for 7,379 products under a proposed Bangladesh–Japan Economic Partnership Agreement. The deal would let ready-made garments enter Japan without import duties from day one, which could make Bangladeshi factories more attractive to buyers in a market known for high quality. Officials say technical talks are complete and only legal checks and final approvals remain, after a phone call between Commerce Adviser Sheikh Bashir Uddin and Japan’s foreign minister, Motegi Toshimitsu. The pact also includes a Single Stage Transformation rule for garments, which means makers will face fewer paperwork and sourcing hurdles when proving where a garment was made. This change should help exporters that use regional suppliers and will make it easier for small factories to meet the rules and sell to Japan. Industry leaders say the move can help Bangladesh compete better with nearby suppliers like Vietnam, Cambodia and Indonesia, especially on price and the ease of sending goods to shoppers in Japan. The agreement comes as Bangladesh prepares to leave least developed country status and face the loss of some trading preferences, so securing a trade deal with Japan is being seen as an important step to protect future exports. Japan is one of Bangladesh’s key partners in Asia, and access to its large and quality-focused market could give steady business to many factories and workers. Senior negotiators and policy makers named in the talks include Lutfey Siddiqi, Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun, Mahbubur Rahman and Ayesha Akter, showing the government is working closely across trade and investment teams. Beyond the duty-free promise, experts say the agreement can bring wider benefits such as clearer rules for trade, more support for export services and stronger links between Bangladeshi brands and Japanese buyers. If the EPA is signed and put into practice, exporters may find it easier to plan production, win contracts and build long-term relationships with brands in Japan. Leaders also warn there are tasks ahead: factories will need to keep raising quality, follow safety and environmental standards and improve delivery speed to meet the demands of a new market. Training, investment in equipment, and better supply chain planning will help factories make the most of the new access and grow in a steady way. Supporters say that when more factories win orders in Japan, the gains will reach workers, suppliers and local towns that rely on clothing jobs, making the change a positive chance for wider economic growth. This step could help keep Bangladesh’s export story moving forward by offering a reliable new market at a time when trade rules are changing. Many industry players say they are very hopeful.
