Proposed Anti-Terrorism Bill jeopardizes Sri Lanka’s chance of regaining GSP+ : Harsha

Samagi Jana Balavegaya (SJB) Parliamentarian Harsha de Silva says that Sri Lanka’s proposed Anti-Terrorism Bill has raised concerns that it violates fundamental rights guaranteed by the country’s constitution

Samagi Jana Balavegaya (SJB) Parliamentarian Harsha de Silva says that Sri Lanka’s proposed Anti-Terrorism Bill has raised concerns that it violates fundamental rights guaranteed by the country’s constitution, potentially jeopardizing its chance of regaining the GSP+ concession.

MP Harsha de Silva mentioned that as Sri Lanka approaches the end of this year, the country faces a critical debate on whether it will retain its annual trade concession worth over $500 million to the European Union (EU) through the Generalized System of Preferences Plus (GSP+).

“However, Sri Lanka’s proposed Anti-Terrorism Bill has raised concerns that it violates fundamental rights guaranteed by the country’s constitution, potentially jeopardizing its chance of regaining the GSP+”, he claimed.

Losing this trade concession would have far-reaching economic consequences for Sri Lanka, particularly in the already-struggling garment sector, he said, mentioning that as the debate unfolds, the outcome will significantly impact Sri Lanka’s future trade relations with the EU.

He further stated that the country must address these human rights and democratic governance issues to retain its economic lifeline and build a sustainable future.