FTZMA hails UK’s tariff-free access for exports

Sri Lanka’s Free Trade Zone manufacturers have lauded the United Kingdom’s decision to grant duty-free access to over 7,000 product lines under its Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS), calling it a major boost for exporters.

In a letter to British High Commissioner Andrew Patrick, the Free Trade Zone Manufacturers’ Association (FTZMA) said the extension of zero tariffs and liberalised Rules of Origin would benefit a wide range of industries, not just apparel.

The association noted that apparel makers can now source up to 100 percent of inputs from any country while still qualifying for tariff-free entry to the UK, a change it said would strengthen competitiveness and protect jobs.

“These developments are poised to significantly enhance the competitiveness of Sri Lankan exports, safeguard livelihoods, and deepen the valued trade partnership between our two nations,” the association said.

The UK is among Sri Lanka’s top export markets, with garments accounting for the lion’s share of shipments.

The confirmation of the same came from the UK last week. 

The liberalised rules of origin, due to come into effect in early 2026, are expected to remove long-standing barriers that limited sourcing flexibility and imposed stricter local processing requirements. The changes align Sri Lanka’s preferential access with that of lower-income countries such as Bangladesh, which already enjoys more generous provisions under the scheme.