BOI says all Export Processing Zones are functioning

• Over 750 PCR tests done at Katunayake factories
• EPZs in Kandy, Polgahawela, Horana, Biyagama to conduct PCR tests this week

By Charumini de Silva 

The Board of Investment (BOI) yesterday confirmed that all 14 export processing zones (EPZs) are in operation, adhering to the Health Ministry policy decision to conduct PCR test for the factory workers.

“All zones are in operation, but some of the enterprises are finding it challenging to cope up with their regular operations that require manpower involvement at factories as some of the employees are from the curfew areas,” BOI Director General Sanjaya Mohottala told the Daily FT.

Noting that daily evaluations are being conducted, he said that as soon as the Government decides on mobility restrictions, the BOI will support the firms with required passes and other facilities necessary to allow the manpower required for their operations. He reiterated that Government had not taken any decision thus far to fully close operation of any EPZs. 

Mohottala also said at Katunayake EPZ on Saturday 750 PCR tests were done for its workers and that the factories in Kandy, Polgahawela, Horana and Biyagama EPZs will start the PCR tests during this week.

Given the current COVID situation, a separate unit established by the BOI headed by Director General, Executive Director Zones along with zonal Directors are gathering information on the EPZs, enterprises and employees, which are being evaluated on a daily basis.

Sri Lanka has 14 EPZs countrywide where 285 enterprises are employing 143,500 workers.