The National Chamber of Exporters of Sri Lanka (NCE) reviewed sectoral issues, export-market requirements and overseas trade plans at its council meeting on 20 October.
Held in partnership with Prime Group and Melwa at the Prime Marina Sales Suite in Port City, the meeting considered matters the chamber is taking up with authorities.
The council reviewed issues being pursued with government institutions. Among the matters discussed was the delay in implementing the Madrid Protocol. WIPO’s Madrid System provides trademark holders with a one-stop solution to secure and manage brand protection and covers 117 members representing 133 countries and over 80% of global trade, with more than 1.7 million registered trademarks. According to NIPO, the final draft is now to be submitted to Parliament for approval. The council also discussed restrictions affecting the forest sector, and difficulties faced by electrical and electronic product exporters. During January–August, Sri Lanka’s Electrical and Electronic Components (EEC) exports grew exceptionally, by 57.49% YoY to $ 440.31 million. For August alone, sector earnings reached $ 62.4 million, supported by a 30.83% rise in Insulated Wires and Cables. Overall, this performance highlights the industry’s expanding competitiveness and export potential.
The NCE has been following up with the relevant authorities on these issues, including seeking a documented action plan from the Ministry of Environment. The chamber has also requested further support from the Sri Lankan Commercial Officer in India in addressing trade difficulties arising from India’s BIS-QCOs, and discussions with the Inland Revenue Department on VAT refunds are also being pursued.
Changes to import procedures and new European Union regulations were mentioned in the meeting’s review of trade-related concerns. Following Customs’ shift to digital processing of import documentation on 1 October, the NCE is surveying exporters to identify difficulties with importing raw materials, machinery, packaging materials, and other inputs. Meanwhile, the chamber and other stakeholders are seeking technical assistance and training for exporters preparing to help Sri Lankan exporters comply with regulations, including EU’s new limits on mineral oil contaminants (MOAH) in food and agricultural products, due to take effect in January 2027. The EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation was also discussed, given its implications for exporters supplying that market.
At the next sectoral discussions, members will address mineral-based products, chemicals, engineering, and electrical and electronic products. Topics include supply-chain bottlenecks, tariff barriers under bilateral free trade agreements, standardisation and raw-material costs.
Conducting a presentation on Export and Beyond, KIK Group of Companies Founder and Chairperson, entrepreneur, Chartered Engineer and inventor Lalith Kahatapitiya called for new foreign-exchange channels beyond existing sources. He emphasised the importance of several measures for the economy, including re-exports, local suppliers serving exporters, and the need for a new National Business Facilitation Centre.
The chamber’s overseas programmes are also taking shape, a visit to Italy and Sweden is planned for March 2027, with a trade show in Milan and business meetings in Stockholm. The council also discussed several upcoming plans, such as the upcoming NCE Budget Forum on 19 November and the 34th NCE Export Awards on 11 December.