Bandula backtracks on FTAs

International Trade and Investment Promotions Minister Bandula Gunawardana assuming duties 

• Strikes moderate tone, says negotiations will continue 
• Singapore FTA would only be renegotiated if experts committee and SC says so 
• Promises fresh tax holidays and incentives to investors 
• Says new measures will be included in Appropriation Bill  
• Plans to submit Cabinet paper to give special tax cuts to projects approved by  Finance Minister    

By Nuwan Senarathna 

Going back on his earlier rhetoric, International Trade and Investment Promotions Minister Bandula Gunawardana yesterday ruled out revoking any signed free trade deals or stopping ongoing negotiations with trade partners, including India and China, instead siding with a balanced approach beneficial to both countries.