Former Deputy Leader of the United National Party (UNP) and Member of Parliament Ravi Karunanayake says that Sri Lanka’s priority should be production and exports, rather than trade focused on imports.
Speaking to the media, Karunanayake noted that while promoting trade is important, the country’s economic revival hinges on export growth, which is not an easy task and requires focused effort and support.
“If the kind of incentives reportedly extended by the IMF towards vehicle imports were instead directed at supporting exports, it would be a significant relief for Sri Lanka,” he said.
The MP stressed that Sri Lankan exporters are currently facing serious challenges, particularly due to complex tax policies, which are hampering growth and competitiveness.
He urged the government to engage in immediate discussions with the IMF to address these issues and ensure policy alignment that genuinely supports export-driven recovery.
Karunanayake further stated that the government must also adopt a clear and direct policy framework regarding the Port City, to harness its full economic potential.
