📈 AmCham Sri Lanka Strengthens US–Sri Lanka Trade Ties at Washington Doorknock 2026

The American Chamber of Commerce in Sri Lanka (AmCham Sri Lanka) successfully represented member interests at the AmChams of Asia Pacific (AAP) Washington Doorknock 2026, held in Washington, D.C., from 21–24 June 2026. Led by President Sandun Hapugoda and Board Director Saneth Gamage, the delegation engaged directly with US policymakers to advance bilateral trade, investment, and economic cooperation. Key Highlights & Outcomes: • Trade & Policy Progress: The delegation advocated for the early conclusion of the US–Sri Lanka bilateral trade agreement. Discussions indicated that negotiations are progressing positively, aiming to bring greater certainty for Sri Lankan exporters, particularly in the apparel & textiles industry. Clarity was also sought regarding the Section 301 investigation affecting Sri Lanka’s manufacturing sector. • Investment & Development Finance: The mission explored enhanced US investment into Sri Lanka. High-level talks with the US International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) focused on securing private-sector backing for critical national areas, including infrastructure, energy, supply chains, financial services, and ICT/BPM drivers like digital connectivity and artificial intelligence. • Strategic Positioning: The delegation positioned Sri Lanka as a trusted, strategic partner within the Indo-Pacific, emphasizing ongoing commitments to improving the investment climate, ease of doing business, and rule-of-law reforms. • Member-Driven Insights: The advocacy positions were backed by six months of extensive local member consultations addressing tariff uncertainties, regulatory predictability, and market access challenges within the US–Sri Lanka commercial corridor.