Tariff jitters cast long shadow over SL's rubber sector

The global rubber market is already feeling the tremors of policy uncertainty, with Sri Lanka caught in the crosshairs, analysts said, while warning there could be a prolonged and painful reshuffle of trade routes, pricing and production flows.

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Analysts state that Sri Lanka's rubber sector could face competitive disadvantages if Sri Lanka fails to secure equitable tariff terms, following the proposed increase in the US tariff rates on rubber products. The natural rubber industry contributes significantly to both employment and foreign exchange earnings as one of the country's key export sectors and for Sri Lanka's rubber sector, the implications are immediate and far-reaching.