Duty-Free access on paper: Barriers hit Pak-Sri Lanka Trade, Says Envoy

KARACHI (Staff Report): Consul General of Sri Lanka in Karachi Sanjeewa Pattiwila has said that despite duty-free access under the Pakistan-Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement signed in 2005, technical barriers and additional taxes continue to block real market access for businesses.

Speaking during his visit to the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), the envoy said trade between the two countries has yet to achieve its potential due to restrictive measures and overly defensive trade approaches.

“In the business world, we cannot always remain on the defensive. We must proactively pursue markets and break down barriers to unlock the true potential of bilateral trade,” he said.

He noted that Pakistan’s exports to Sri Lanka stand at $450 million while Sri Lankan exports to Pakistan are only $90 million. Pakistan exports cement and heavy materials, while Sri Lanka exports betel leaves, electronics, garments and recently pineapples.

He cited the successful facilitation of pineapple exports as an example of how targeted engagement with authorities can open new opportunities, and urged both sides to hold constructive dialogue to resolve market access issues.

President KCCI Talat Mahmood said the Chamber and the Sri Lankan Consulate must serve as a bridge between business communities and urged members to pursue joint ventures in pharmaceuticals, textiles, rubber, plastics, engineering goods, surgical instruments and food processing.

He said KCCI will continue to work closely with the Consulate to promote trade, investment and commercial cooperation.