Rubber products exporters call for immediate Govt. action over 30% US tariff

■Says US proposed move threatens $ 1 b export industry

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■Tyre and glove exports at risk as competitors enjoy lower tariffs

■Over 150,000 livelihoods in rural Sri Lanka could be impacted without urgent intervention

THE Sri Lanka Association of Manufacturers and Exporters of Rubber Products (SLAMERP) has called on the Government to intensify negotiations with the US following the announcement of a 30% reciprocal tariff on Sri Lankan rubber product imports, effective from 1 August.

The announcement, made by US President Donald Trump, has triggered widespread concern among exporters and industry stakeholders.

SLAMERP Chairman Pushpika Janadheera noted that Sri Lankan exporters are already under pressure and cannot absorb a steep 30% tariff without losing ground in global markets.

This tariff comes at a time when Sri Lanka is striving to revive its manufacturing sector post-crisis, leaving it especially vulnerable. Competing nations like Malaysia, Vietnam, and India enjoy stronger global positions, bolstered by favourable trade terms and lower production costs. Without urgent intervention, Sri Lanka risks losing longstanding buyers to these more competitive markets.