The United States has reduced tariffs on Sri Lankan exports to 10%, according to Sri Lanka's outgoing Ambassador to the United States, Mahinda Samarasinghe, who described the decision as the result of coordinated efforts by the Government and the Sri Lankan delegation.
In a statement, Samarasinghe said the outcome was achieved through strong bilateral relations between Sri Lanka and the United States, timely directives from President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, and focused negotiations by the Sri Lankan delegation.
He said the delegation was led by Finance Secretary Harshana Suriyapperuma and included Central Bank Governor Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe, Trade Secretary Vimalenthirarajah, Chief Economic Advisor and BOI Chairman Duminda Hulangamuwa, and Ambassador Mahinda Samarasinghe. He also credited the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Washington, D.C., for its day-to-day coordination, intelligence gathering, strategic advice, and efforts to build goodwill that contributed to the favourable outcome.
As he prepares to conclude his tenure as Sri Lanka's Ambassador to the United States, Samarasinghe welcomed the tariff reduction but cautioned that the country should not become complacent.
He said further challenges remain in sustaining the positive outcome and stressed the importance of continued engagement and cooperation.
Highlighting his commitment to the country, Samarasinghe said he remains ready to assist the Government if called upon.
"As for me, I am ready to offer my assistance to the President and his Government if requested. There is absolutely nothing that we as Sri Lankans cannot achieve if we work as a team, setting aside political agendas in the best interest of our beloved motherland," he said.
