Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has strongly criticised the government over the United States’ decision to impose a 30% tariff on Sri Lankan exports starting 1st of August blaming it on poor trade negotiations and weak diplomacy.
In a post on platform X, Premadasa stated that the steep tariff was the result of the government’s failure to engage effectively with international partners and secure support during trade discussions.
“A 30% U.S. tariff on Sri Lankan exports is the price we pay for poor negotiation,” he wrote, warning that nearly USD 3 billion in export revenue could be at risk.
He further accused the government of letting ego and insular policymaking override strategic diplomacy. “Our ego kept us from seeking every ally, every expert hand, and now nearly $3 billion in exports hangs in the balance,” he said.
Taking aim at the officials leading the talks, Premadasa remarked, “This is a good case study on how textbook experts are not meant for real world negotiations.”
