Ceylon Chamber calls for private sector input on FTAs

Aug 18, 2016 (LBO) - With the Sri Lankan government working towards a series of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce has called for companies to submit substantive inputs on trade policy matters. With these inputs the private sector can "strengthen its representations with trade negotiators," the Ceylon Chamber said in a statement. "The Chamber has always been supportive of mutually beneficial trade agreements and has held the view that such agreements need to be forged following transparent and broad-based consultations with the private sector." The CCC, which is closely engaged with key high-level trade consultative committees, said it welcomes the government’s ongoing efforts to incorporate private sector views in its deliberations. “We have a unique opportunity to influence the trade policy process of the government; to channel industry views on trade liberalisation issues; identify concerns and new opportunities brought on by new agreements; and advocate for tackling key problem areas," the statement said. "The Chamber is keen to submit evidence-based, meaningful, and progressive recommendations to the government.” Companies can fill in a detailed questionnaire - available on the Chamber website www.chamber.lk to download the questionnaire .