The Exporters Association of Sri Lanka (EASL) has called on the government to implement a clear and risk-based strategy for enforcing new regulations that ban imports associated with forced labor. The association cautioned that ambiguous enforcement procedures could hinder legitimate trade and inflate compliance expenses.
While the trade organization praised the government’s dedication to adhering to globally recognized labor standards and participating in international initiatives to eradicate forced labor from supply chains, it noted that although the new regulations prohibiting the import of goods made through forced labor have been announced, the detailed operational guidelines are still pending.
The EASL expressed concern that the absence of a well-defined, internationally compatible implementation framework could lead to uncertainty, elevated compliance costs, delays in shipments, increased administrative duties, and disruptions to lawful trade.
The association urged the government to adopt a risk-based enforcement model that aligns with international best practices. This approach should prioritize inspecting high-risk goods, supply chains, and regions rather than imposing uniform documentation requirements on all import transactions.
Furthermore, the EASL recommended that the government engage in structured discussions with key stakeholders, including exporters, importers, chambers of commerce, logistics providers, and others, before introducing these operational procedures.
The EASL also encouraged the Department of Customs to release detailed implementation guidelines that outline acceptable documentation, verification processes, and reasonable transition plans before the enforcement of these regulations begins.
Nalaka Ratnayake, Chairman of the Exporters Association of Sri Lanka, stated, “Sri Lanka’s exporters are fully committed to ethical trade practices and the elimination of forced labor from global supply chains. However, any new compliance framework must be backed by clear implementation guidelines and meaningful consultations with stakeholders to prevent negative impacts on legitimate trade. A transparent, practical, and risk-based approach will help achieve the goals of the regulation while maintaining Sri Lanka’s competitiveness in global markets.”
The EASL emphasized that as an export-driven nation, it is crucial to uphold confidence in Sri Lanka’s trading environment and ensure compliance with international standards.
The association concluded by highlighting the importance of protecting supply chains and ensuring efficient cargo clearance at the ports of Colombo. The EASL looks forward to ongoing discussions with authorities regarding the implementation of the new regulations.
