Sri Lankan Exports Face Potential Hit from US Trade Policy

Sri Lanka's key export sectors, including apparel, rubber, coconut, and plastics, are facing potential disruptions due to the upcoming trade policies of US President Donald Trump, which are expected to take effect in April. This warning was issued by Deputy Minister Anil Jayantha in Parliament today.

The Deputy Minister highlighted that the United States is shifting its focus towards reciprocal tariffs, which could negatively impact Sri Lankan exports.

"Sri Lanka has already undertaken steps to minimize the negative effects of Trump's trade policy," Deputy Minister Jayantha stated. "The Sri Lankan Ambassador in Washington has already engaged in negotiations with US authorities. Sri Lanka enjoys sound bilateral ties with USA and we hope to have a successful engagement with that nation."

The Deputy Minister was responding to a question from opposition MP Ravi Karunanayake, who urged the government to take immediate action to mitigate the potential adverse effects of the US trade policy on Sri Lanka's economy.