Dhaka, Feb. 25 -- Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir has said Bangladesh will carefully weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks before deciding whether to pursue a trade agreement with the United States.

Speaking to reporters on Wednesday after a meeting with business leaders, he said it was "too early to comment" on the specifics of the proposed deal.

"We are currently examining the pros and cons. We will determine our course of action after that," he said.

When asked whether the interim government had rushed the deal or kept details hidden, he explained that there were some "non-disclosure agreements in place during the negotiation phase".

"This is a sensitive issue. Given the evolving situation, it would be inappropriate...