Former Deputy Leader of the United National Party and Member of Parliament Ravi Karunanayake says exports are critically important at a time when the country is facing numerous challenges.
Addressing a media briefing, the MP stated that about a decade ago, natural flowers were a leading sector in the country’s export industry.
However, he pointed out that Sri Lanka has now reached a situation where such products are fully imported.
He noted that China and India are the main countries from which Sri Lanka currently imports flowers.
The MP further observed that the rubber and coconut industries have also suffered a similar decline.
Therefore, he said it is time for all stakeholders to reflect seriously on what has happened to the country.
