Our Correspondent
Karachi
The government of Sri Lanka has withdrawn its decision to increase the cess on Pakistani kinnow after Pakistan’s High Commission in Colombo approached the authorities concerned in the island nation.
On the directives of adviser on trade and investment, the trade and investment attache of Pakistan’s High Commission in Sri Lanka raised the matter with Sri Lankan authorities and subsequently their government withdrew the decision to enhance the levy.“I wish to share the good news that the Sri Lankan government has taken back the increase in cess on import of kinnow and mandarins,” tweeted Adviser to Prime Minister on Commerce, Textile, Industries and Production Abdul Razak Dawood.
“The levy has been reverted to Rs30 per kg (from Rs160 per kg).”He appreciated the All Pakistan Fruit and Vegetable Exporters, Importers and Merchants Association for bringing the issue to the knowledge of the Ministry of Commerce.
He commended the efforts made by Pakistan’s trade and investment officer in Colombo in that regard. The adviser also thanked the Sri Lankan government for its understanding and support.
“This positive development will boost the confidence of Pakistani exporters as the citrus season has commenced and Sri Lanka is one of the leading markets for small mandarins produced in Pakistan,” he hoped.
