Three main bodies of Sri Lanka’s Export Processing Zones say that the current wave of Covid 19 does not have a negative impact on the operations of factories and exports. The Export Development Board, (EDB) says that companies in Gampaha district and curfew areas can operate during the curfew time period.
The Secretary of the Free Trade Zone Manufacturers Association (FTZMA) Dhammika Fernando says that though three factories are closed due to staff being detected with Covid virus there is no need to close the factory. “However we need support from health authorities to bring in more staff to work as yesterday out of 35, 000 KIPZ staff only 7,000 was present. When we run operations with limited staff, factories are unable to meet targets of foreign orders. When orders are ‘defaulted’ the suppliers then to go to other countries which will have a long term negative impact on BOI exports.” “Export companies in the Gampaha district can continue to operate during the curfew period strictly following the Covid 19 Health Guidelines and all preventive measures for the pandemic, with the consent from the relevant health authorities.”
EDB is ready and willing to facilitate the issuing of curfew passes and details could be obtained from, EDB Help Desk, Telephone, 0112300710 or email, helpdesk@edb.gov.lk or www.srilankabusiness.com.
The Board of Investment of Sri Lanka says that they ensure the operations of the BOI industries located within the Gampaha district without any interruption during the curfew imposed period. The functions of the companies in Katunayake, Biyagama, Wathupitiwala, Malwatta and Mirigama Export processing zones are expected to continue production while strictly adhering to the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Health.
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