Colombo, Jul 12 (PTI) Sri Lankan exporters have raised concerns over a proposed 30 per cent tariff on the country's goods entering the US, warning it could severely affect key sectors including apparel and rubber products.

The Exporters Association of Sri Lanka (EASL) in a statement on Friday urged the government to intensify negotiations with the US before the August 1 deadline.

EASL acknowledged the efforts of Sri Lankan trade representatives but stressed the need for more urgency and determination, noting that competitor countries such as Vietnam and India faced lower tariffs of 20 and 26 per cent, respectively.

Calling the proposed rate unsustainable, EASL said the higher tariff would place Sri Lankan exports at a disadvantage in the global market.

The association also urged authorities to explore new international markets and diversify export destinations to protect the economy from future external shocks. PTI CORR SKS SKS PY PY

Proposed tariff increase threatens export competitiveness; exporters urge urgent negotiations and market diversification before deadline. A proposed 30% United States import tariff on Sri Lankan goods would disadvantage key export sectors, particularly apparel and rubber, relative to competitors; the Exporters Association of Sri Lanka urges urgent negotiations before the August 1 deadline and recommends diversifying export markets as a contingency.