‘Tile & sanitary ware industry in crisis due to tile import ban’

The temporary ban on tile imports has plunged the tile and sanitary ware industry into a severe crisis. Considering the magnitude of this situation, we look forward to Cabinet approval for a resumption of tile imports, the Board of Management of the Tile & Sanitary Ware Importers Association (TISA)says in a press release.

The release: ‘The industry has been facing severe crises in the past due to the temporary ban on tile imports. Not only the importers but also the traders, the warehouses and all the employees were in crisis.

‘Although we were initially able to take such a decision in the face of the economic crisis in the country, as importers of Sri Lankan tiles and sanitary ware we had doubts as to whether the continued ban was carried out by some invisible political hand.

‘There are over 300 importers in the Tile and Sanitary Importers Association (TSIA) and we are proud to acknowledge that our association has made a significant contribution to the local economy over the past 30 years. During these 30 years, we produced a large number of job opportunities as well as tailoring to customer demand as well as providing tiles and sanitary ware at reasonable prices.

‘Importers of this industry give near 12 billion rupees to the national economy on every year only from import tax.

‘Also, more than 100,000 jobs have been created directly and indirectly associated with this industry at present.

‘It has also created about 2000 small and medium scale entrepreneurs for the rural economy and generated a large number of related jobs. Also, this is an organization which represent all the races in Sri Lanka.

‘Local tiles in the local market can provide only 40% – 45% for the needs. Also, about 50% of the cost from products imported as energy and raw materials. It will be a huge environmental polution if we produce the imported items within our country.

‘Because of the supply doesn’t fulfill the need of domestic consumer, he had to buy tiles and sanitary items for a high price.

‘We have informed the President and the Cabinet from time to time about this crisis. This media conference was held to raise awareness about this. Considering this situation, we expect Cabinet approval for the import of tiles. Let’s believe.

‘As businessmen, we Sri Lankans are committed to supporting the government of Sri Lanka in the face of international obstacles. We would like to thank President Gotabhaya Rajapaksa for his support to the government and for the economic well-being of Sri Lanka. We look forward to continuing to sell tiles and sanitary ware at reasonable prices in this industry. We are studying this closely and we hope that this work will be completed soon.’