Exporters urged to seize opportunities under UK’s new trade framework

• CCC calls on exporters to start gearing up now to take advantage of sweeping reforms to UK’s DCTS
• Welcomes UK’s decision to liberalise rules of origin
• Says this “important step” reflects UK’s continued commitment to greater trade openness and flexibility
• Stresses importance of private sector readiness to maximise benefits

The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce (CCC) yesterday called on Sri Lanka’s export fraternity to start gearing up now to take advantage of the sweeping reforms to the UK’s Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS), which will come into effect in early 2026.
The CCC welcomed the UK’s decision to liberalise the rules of origin, a move that will allow Sri Lanka to retain tariff-free access to the British market, even when the apparel manufacturers source up to 100 percent of their raw materials from any country. 
The expanded regional cumulation arrangements, covering 18 Asian nations, are also expected to strengthen the supply chains and create new opportunities for value-added exports.
According to the CCC, this “important step” reflects the UK’s continued commitment to greater trade openness and flexibility, offering the Sri Lankan exporters enhanced access to one of their key markets.
CCC Chairman Krishan Balendra noted that the reforms would provide a timely boost to the country’s largest export sector. 
“We deeply appreciate the efforts of the UK government, British High Commission in Sri Lanka, Sri Lankan government and Joint Apparel Association Forum in advancing this initiative. The liberalised rules of origin will provide a strong impetus to Sri Lanka’s apparel industry and help strengthen our position as a trusted and competitive partner in global supply chains,” he said.
While hailing the development as a breakthrough for the apparel sector, the CCC stressed the importance of private sector readiness to maximise the benefits. It encouraged the exporters across industries to familiarise themselves with the new trade arrangements well ahead of implementation.
To support this transition, the CCC affirmed it would work closely with the UK High Commission and Sri Lankan government to disseminate information and build awareness across the private sector.