Industry chamber chief concerned over US tariff talks’ radio silence

Monday, 25 August 2025 04:33 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Ceylon National Chamber of Industries Chairman Kevin Edwards

Satisfied with Govt. efforts to negotiate better trade terms with US
Says concerns remain about possible negative outcomes
Imported inputs and energy costs likely to increase

Ceylon National Chamber of Industries Chairman Kevin Edwards said manufacturers were broadly satisfied with the Government’s progress in cutting reciprocal US tariffs to 20% from 44%, but warned that businesses remain uncertain about which sectors will be opened to US competition.

“We are happy with the progress made by the Government to reduce US tariffs further, but we also do understand that there is some give-and-take, and at the moment, we are in the dark about what is being negotiated and what the Government plans to offer the US,” Edwards told the Daily FT.

He cautioned that imports from the US could take longer to arrive than those from Asia, raising costs and causing delays. Oil shipments would also be more expensive due to distance, he added.

Edwards noted that Sri Lankan exports rely on cost-effective inputs from other markets and questioned whether these would be affected. “And then energy pricing is the other concern. We will wait and see, trusting the Government would do what’s best for the country,” he said.

The Chamber, which represents more than 400 manufacturers, engages with policymakers but avoids lobbying for narrow interests, Edwards said. “For the moment, we will be patient, knowing that there is no choice in the matter, and drawing comfort that the bigger industries are also working closely with the Government.”