Exporters press for bureaucratic, labour reforms in 2026 Budget proposals

National Chamber of Exporters presents wish list for 2026 Budget Highlights inefficient trade procedures driving delays and costs High certification costs and limited accredited facilities hamper expansion Flags acute shortage of skilled, unskilled labour across export sector; poor access to affordable finance for SMEs Recommends EDB reimburse 50% of certification costs and grant low interest loans to help exporters meet requirements Wants tax free profits for products with over 60% local value addition; triple tax deductions for R&D, innovation, and sustainability Calls for Govt. research and development fund and Sri Lankan Export Import Bank

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THE National Chamber of Exporters (NCE) yesterday said it has submitted proposals for the 2026 Budget seeking reforms to strengthen exports, attract investment, and boost competitiveness. It said the measures would streamline trade, strengthen Sri Lankan brands, cut compliance costs, promote value addition and innovation, expand SME financing, and address labour shortages by building a skilled workforce.

The Chamber said the recommendations reflect the outcome of extensive consultations with NCE members and sector heads, ensuring they capture the real challenges and aspirations of exporters across industries.

While sector specific reforms have been suggested for areas such as minerals, floriculture, and horticulture, the Chamber stressed that the majority of proposals are cross cutting measures that apply broadly across all export industries.

Exporters continue to face delays and high costs due to inefficient procedures and outdated systems. To address these issues, the NCE has called for the installation of a modern cargo scanner at the Katunayake Export Processing Centre and the introduction of a single window digital system for exporter registration and renewals.

In relation to branding and market access, the Chamber noted that Sri Lankan exporters often lose value by supplying under foreign labels.

To build stronger brand equity, it has proposed Government backed liability insurance and tax concessions for brand building, the fast tracking of trademark registration, Sri Lanka's accession to the Madrid Protocol, and the prelaunch of the Export Development Board's Brand Development Program alongside global campaigns to showcase Sri Lankan quality.