National Chamber of Exporters welcomes new US tariff move

Urges further negotiations, strategic shifts

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THE National Chamber of Exporters (NCE) of Sri Lanka in a statement said it welcomes the recent revision of US tariff rates on Sri Lankan exports, reducing the previously expected 44% to 30%.

This development gives Sri Lankan exporters a much-needed advantage over key competitors like Bangladesh (35%), Cambodia (36%), and even China (50%). Only Vietnam and India currently enjoy lower rates, though both countries face complex trade-offs, including geopolitical considerations and internal subsidy programs.

NCE President Indhra Kaushal Rajapaksa said: “This is a positive development, but certainly not the end of the road. We commend the efforts that went into securing this 30% rate, but our exporters are still grappling with mounting input costs, logistics challenges, and limited incentives compared to regional competitors. We strongly urge the Sri Lankan Government to initiate a second round of negotiations with US trade authorities to push for a further reduction—ideally to the 15-20% range—which would be more sustainable and competitive.”

He further emphasised that Sri Lanka must re-strategise its approach to exports by entering new and niche markets, upgrading to value-added products, and enhancing global positioning through branding, certification, and innovation. According to him, tariff concessions will only go so far—true resilience will come from evolution and strategic transformation.