Sri Lanka and the United States have agreed to continue discussions aimed at finalizing a bilateral trade agreement at the earliest possible opportunity, the Government of Sri Lanka announced.
A Sri Lankan delegation held talks with U.S. Trade Representative Ambassador Jamieson Greer on April 22, 2025, at the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) in Washington D.C.
In a statement, the Sri Lankan Government said the delegation briefed Ambassador Greer on the economic challenges the country has faced in recent years and outlined the steps being taken to foster recovery and long-term stability. The delegation also emphasized Sri Lanka’s strong commitment to working with the United States to reduce the trade deficit and address both tariff and non-tariff barriers.
Ambassador Greer reportedly welcomed Sri Lanka’s proposals and expressed hope that negotiations would lead to a fair and equitable trade agreement between the two nations.
Later the same day, the Sri Lankan delegation met with a team appointed by Ambassador Greer, led by Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for South and Central Asia, Brendan Lynch, and Director for South Asia, Emily Ashby. The discussions focused on Sri Lanka’s written trade offer and the framework for upcoming negotiations.
Both sides reiterated their shared goal of finalizing a bilateral trade agreement as swiftly as possible.
The U.S. Trade Representative’s Office (USTR) is responsible for developing and coordinating U.S. trade policy and overseeing international trade negotiations. The USTR is a Cabinet-level official who serves as the president’s principal advisor and spokesperson on trade matters.
