NCE expects ‘reasonable protection and assistance’ from new government

21 August 2015 08:29 am

The National chamber of Exporters (NCE), a private sector chamber of exporters in the country expects “reasonable protection and assistance” to local enterprises from the new government.
A NCE statement issued in the aftermath of the general election congratulating the new government led by United National Party (UNP) leader and Prime Minister elect Ranil Wickremesinghe said such protection is required for local enterprises to play a dynamic role in a competitive environment.
“The Chamber would also expect the Government to provide reasonable protection and assistance to local enterprises to play a dynamic role in a competitive environment of export led growth for sustainable development,” the statement noted. 
UNP in its election manifesto advocated a highly competitive, knowledge-based social market economy, where protectionism has little opportunity.
Sri Lanka has dubious trade policies where higher import tariffs are imposed on various items to protect a few inefficient local manufacturers, depriving of Sri Lankan customers of better quality but relatively cheap products. 
 

''UNP in its election manifesto advocated a highly competitive, knowledge-based social market economy, where protectionism has little opportunity''

NCE said it was encouraged by the statements given by the leaders of the new government on exports during the election campaign.
“In this context the Chamber is pleased to note that the government will give utmost priority to export-led growth, by creating a dynamic environment, with the necessary incentives and assistance to export enterprises, as well as to attract Foreign Direct Investments in a substantial way for dynamic export led growth, transfer of technology, exploit export markets, and create employment opportunities in the country, to achieve the new employment target of one million of the government during the next five years.”

NCE said it stands ready to extend its fullest cooperation to the government to develop and implement dynamic and comprehensive export strategies and programmes to accelerate economic development in Sri Lanka.
“The Chamber trusts policy makers of the government will consult the Chamber during all stages of development and implementation of its export led programs of action.”