India is pushing for customs duty concessions on a range of goods, including cars, commercial vehicles, and machinery, as part of an ongoing comprehensive free trade agreement (FTA) with Sri Lanka. According to an official source, these negotiations are aimed at enhancing bilateral trade by reducing tariffs on key exports from India.

In addition to tariff reductions, India is also advocating for easier visa norms to facilitate the movement of professionals between the two countries. This move is expected to bolster trade in services and strengthen professional exchanges.

The recent discussions marked the 14th round of FTA negotiations between senior officials from both nations, held in Colombo. These talks are part of a broader effort to deepen economic ties and streamline trade regulations under the proposed agreement.

As the FTA discussions progress, both countries are focusing on areas where mutual benefits can be maximized. India’s push for concessions on vehicles and machinery aligns with its broader strategy to expand market access in Sri Lanka while enhancing the overall economic partnership between the two nations.