SL fears socio-economic crisis as US tariff hikes threaten rubber exports: SLAMERP

A proposed increase in US tariff rates on rubber products could devastate Sri Lanka's export sector, risking 150,000 livelihoods and destabilising rural economies, Sri Lanka Association of Manufacturers and Exporters of Rubber Products (SLAMERP) Chairman Pushpika Jamnadhira cautioned.

- By NISHEL FERNANDO

Jamnadhira urged the government to secure equitable tariff terms to avert industry collapse.

Sri Lanka’s rubber sector, which exports gloves, solid/pneumatic tyres, and tyre components, faces severe competitive disadvantages due to stark tariff imbalances.

While China faces higher US tariffs, competitors like Malaysia (24 percent on gloves), Thailand, Vietnam, and India (26 percent on solid tyres) benefit from lower rates compared to Sri Lanka’s 44 percent tariffs.