Biman Bangladesh Airlines orders 14 Boeing jets in sweeping US trade agreement.

Biman Bangladesh Airlines is set for a major fleet overhaul following a landmark trade deal. The carrier will purchase 14 new Boeing aircraft as part of the "Agreement on Reciprocal Trade." This deal was signed on February 9, 2026, between the United States and Bangladesh's interim government.

The agreement marks a significant shift in the South Asian aviation market. For years, Airbus had been competing for this order. However, the new trade framework steers the national carrier toward American-made jets. The order includes eight Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners, two 787-9 Dreamliners, and four 737-8 MAX aircraft.

Economic and Geopolitical Impact

This deal is about more than just planes. It integrates Bangladesh into the US economic sphere. In exchange for the aircraft order and other commitments, the US cut tariffs on Bangladeshi exports. The rate dropped from 20 percent to 19 percent.

However, the relief comes with heavy requirements. Bangladesh has committed to the following:

• Purchasing $15 billion in US energy products over 15 years.
• Buying $3.5 billion in American agricultural goods.
• Increasing purchases of US military equipment.
• Limiting defense and nuclear deals with "certain countries," likely referring to China and Russia.

Industry Concerns and Timing

Experts have raised concerns about the timing of the deal. It was signed just 72 hours before a national election. Mustafizur Rahman, a fellow at the Centre for Policy Dialogue, called it the "weaponization of trade." He noted that the deal limits the policy flexibility of the next elected government.

Selim Raihan of the South Asian Network on Economic Modeling also questioned the cost. He warned that the debt taken for the Boeing jets must lead to real commercial benefits. If not, it could put more pressure on the national economy.

Regulatory and Labor Changes

The agreement also forces regulatory changes. Bangladesh must now accept US FDA certifications for medical devices. It must also remove restrictions on the right to strike in its Export Processing Zones (EPZs). These zones are vital to the country's garment industry.

According to the USTR, this agreement is a "meaningful step forward" for American exporters. For the aviation sector, it secures Boeing's dominance in a growing market. It also ensures that Bangladesh's digital and physical infrastructure remains aligned with US standards.

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