National People’s Power (NPP) MP Lakshman Nipunaarachchi said that Sri Lanka is the only country that has engaged in bilateral discussions with the United States over tariff-related issues.
Speaking during a programme aired on a state-owned television channel, Nipunaarachchi stated that while the issue has drawn attention, some have exaggerated its impact for political gain.
He also criticised former officials and political figures who now offer advice, despite their own questionable track records while in power.
“The problem isn’t over yet. The government is still in talks with the US,” the MP added, signalling that negotiations are ongoing.
‘Crunch time’ for global trade talks
With just two weeks to go before Donald Trump’s Liberation Day deadline, global trade talks have entered crunch time.
Countries without bilateral trade deals by July 9 could face tariffs significantly higher than the current 10% baseline.
So far, only the UK has finalized an agreement, which preserves the 10% rate but doesn’t resolve its 25% steel duty dispute.
Other negotiations are still in motion.
China has secured a temporary truce through mid-August, while India, Japan, and South Korea remain locked in discussions on key sectors like autos, agriculture, and steel.
U.S. officials have hinted at possible deadline extensions for countries making productive progress, though nothing has been confirmed.
Canada is aiming to resolve its differences by mid-July, warning it may increase existing 25% steel and aluminum tariffs if progress stalls.
Mexico is inching toward a compromise that would phase out Trump’s 50% steel tariffs under a volume cap.
South Korea, Thailand, and Switzerland are also working to reach terms, with Thailand offering new proposals and Switzerland focusing on agricultural concessions.
Leave a comment