Sri Lanka should enhance trade facilitation and create a more conducive business environment by reducing non-tariff barriers, US Ambassador Julie Chung said.
She urged Sri Lanka to “seize this window of opportunity by enhancing trade facilitation and creating a more conducive environment, including reducing non-tariff barriers, enhancing openness, and improving competitiveness.”
The US envoy made this comment when she met Ceylon Chamber of Commerce officials to discuss trade, investment, and economic opportunities between Sri Lanka and the United States, a statement from the chamber said.
Ambassador Chung met with Chairman Krishan Balendra, Vice Chairman Bingumal Thewarathanthri, Deputy Vice Chairman Vinod Hirdaramani, Secretary General and CEO Buwanekabahu Perera and other representatives of the Ceylon Chamber to discuss trade, investment, and economic opportunities between Sri Lanka and the United States.
Ambassador Chung extended her congratulations to Mr. Krishan Balendra on his appointment as Chairman of the Ceylon Chamber, and the U.S. Embassy’s interest in continuing and strengthening engagement with the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, given its position as the premier and most influential representative of the private sector.
She also commended the Sri Lankan Government for its collaborative and constructive negotiation with the United States to achieve a fair, balanced, and reciprocal trade relationship.
The discussion highlighted Sri Lanka’s regional trade position and the potential to attract increased U.S. business interest following recent changes in global trade positions. Ambassador Chung emphasised that many U.S. companies are increasingly considering South Asia, with Sri Lanka emerging as a top option, the statement added.