Apparel industry welcomes Govt. efforts in US trade dialogue

Monday, 28 April 2025 04:40 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Seeks parity of tariff for apparel exports
Calls on both governments to consider long-term sustenance of Sri Lanka’s apparel industry that remains a key pillar of economy and global leader in ethical manufacturing

The Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF) on Friday welcomed the Government’s proactive engagement with the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) in Washington D.C., and extended its appreciation to President Anura Kumara Disanayake and the delegation for prioritising discussions that advance equitable and mutually beneficial trade relations between Sri Lanka and the US.

“The US continues to be a vital and long-standing trading partner for Sri Lanka’s apparel industry. As an industry that supports 350,000 employees directly, and a further 700,000 livelihoods across the country; we are encouraged by the Government’s commitment to address key trade barriers and seek solutions that safeguard market access and competitiveness for Sri Lankan exports,” JAAF said.

JAAF believes that any future tariff arrangements agreed upon will reflect parity with those offered to other apparel-producing nations, ensuring a level playing field for Sri Lankan exporters. “In this context, we respectfully urge both Governments to consider the long-term sustenance of Sri Lanka’s apparel industry — an industry that remains a key pillar of the national economy and a global leader in ethical manufacturing,” it added.

As discussions progress towards a potential bilateral trade agreement, the JAAF reiterated that Sri Lanka’s apparel sector operates with full traceability, transparency and sustainability; in line with internationally accepted ethical standards and that this should be recognised in setting a special concessionary tariff.

“We remain confident that Sri Lanka’s value proposition as a responsible sourcing destination is both credible and competitive. We look forward to continued dialogue between the two Governments and express our full support for a future-oriented agreement that will enhance trade, attract investment, and contribute to shared prosperity,” JAAF noted.

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