The Opposition’s hopes that Sri Lanka’s apparel sector would collapse following the imposition of tariffs by the United States have been dashed, as the US has granted a 90-day grace period for negotiations in response to requests and diplomatic efforts by the Sri Lankan Government and other countries, Deputy Minister of Industries and Entrepreneurship Development Chathuranga Abeysinghe said.

Speaking at a public gathering in Homagama on Thursday (10), Abeysinghe stated that the Government has adopted a clear and diplomatic approach to resolving the issue with the US, demonstrating a sound understanding of international negotiations.

“The Opposition can no longer sit back and watch, because their malicious expectations have been proven wrong,” he said.

“They were overjoyed last week when the US announced tariffs. They were practically celebrating, claiming that garment factories would shut down within days. But we had already submitted our request. Other countries too have submitted the requests for negotiations. And, now we have 90 days to hold discussions and seek a resolution,” he added.