Sri Lankan exporters face new EU sustainable standards

Sri Lankan exporters should immediately prepare to adapt to new sustainable environmental laws and regulations to be introduced by the European Union (EU), which will strictly scrutinise product promotion, supply chain management, and the fulfilment of environmental and social responsibilities.

Accordingly, the Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition Directive (EmpCo) regulations to prevent false "green" or "eco-friendly" claims (Greenwashing) misleading consumers come into effect from September 27.

If an organisation is revealed to make unverified environmental claims, those entities are subject to fines up to 2 million Euros or 4 percent of the annual turnover in the relevant EU member country, with a risk of losing market access.

In addition, the law on packaging and waste management (PPWR) is scheduled to be implemented from August 12, and the law on preventing deforestation (EUDR) from December 30.

This directly impacts a number of major export sectors in Sri Lanka, including tea, spices, apparel, rubber, agricultural, fisheries, and plastic products.

Adapting to these regulations is not merely a legal requirement, but an essential factor for entering the European market.