Sri Lanka, Nov. 5 -- The newly concluded European Union-India Free Trade Agreement could reshape the competitive landscape for Sri Lankan exports, even as the government moves to safeguard preferential access to a vital market.

Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning Anil Jayantha Fernando stated that Indian exporters are expected to gain duty-free or concessionary access to the European Union comparable to benefits Sri Lanka receives under GSP+, challenging the competitive edge local exporters currently possess.

Negotiations for the EU-India FTA wrapped up on January 27, 2026, though internal ratifications remain pending before entry into force.

Sri Lankan authorities are currently evaluating potential effects on major export sectors,...