Sri Lanka and US hold high-level talks in Washington over reciprocal tariffs

Saturday, 26 April 2025 01:35 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Govt. extends commitment to work closely with US to reduce existing trade deficit, address both tariff and non-tariff barriers
US Trade Representative Ambassador Jamieson Greer expresses hope that an agreement can be reached in near future to establish fair and equitable trade relations between two countries

The Government yesterday announced a high-level Sri Lankan delegation held key discussions with the US Trade Representative’s (USTR) Office on Tuesday (22), in Washington D.C., following Trump administration’s decision to impose a steep 44% tariff on Sri Lankan exports—markinga significant step forward in strengthening trade relations between the two countries.

The Sri Lankan delegation, acting on the instructions of President Anura Kumara Disanayake, who also serves as the Finance Minister—met with US Trade Representative Ambassador Jamieson Greer at the USTR headquarters. During the meeting, the delegation formally handed over original communications addressed to Ambassador Greer on behalf of the Government of Sri Lanka, laying the groundwork for a potential trade agreement, a statement issued by the President’s Media Division noted.

The Sri Lankan team provided Ambassador Greer with a comprehensive briefing on the economic challenges the country has faced in recent years, as well as the reforms and policy measures currently being implemented to ensure long-term recovery and sustainable growth.

Emphasising Sri Lanka’s commitment to rebuilding its economy, the delegation conveyed the Government’s commitment to work closely with the US to reduce the existing trade deficit and address both tariff and non-tariff barriers.

It added that the Ambassador Greer welcomed the proposals submitted by the Sri Lankan Government, expressing appreciation for the proactive and collaborative approach taken by Colombo.

He has also expressed optimism that an agreement can be reached in the near future to establish fair and equitable trade relations between the two nations.

Following the initial meeting, the Sri Lankan delegation engaged in a subsequent session with a USTR team led by Assistant US Trade Representative for South and Central Asia, Brendan Lynch, and Director for South Asia, Emily Ashby. This discussion focused in detail on the written offer submitted by Sri Lanka, and both parties reaffirmed their commitment to continuing talks with the aim of finalising a bilateral trade agreement.

The delegation is expected to push for continued tariff relief beyond the 90-day reduction to 10%, while also exploring long-term solutions such as expanded trade cooperation, regulatory alignment and targeted US market engagement strategies.

The Office of the US Trade Representative plays a central role in shaping US trade policy and overseeing negotiations with international partners. As a Cabinet-level office, the USTR represents the President of the United States in all matters relating to trade, investment policy, and economic agreements abroad.

Analysts suggests that this latest round of talks signals a renewed momentum in US-Sri Lanka trade relations, as both governments explore pathways to deeper economic cooperation and long-term strategic engagement.

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