COLOMBO, Sept. 30 (Xinhua) -- Sri Lanka will establish an internationally recognized National Quality Infrastructure (NQI) system to strengthen product standards and boost trade competitiveness, the Ministry of Science and Technology announced on Tuesday in a statement.
Minister of Science and Technology Chrishantha Abeysena said budget allocations have been made under the ministry for 2025 to develop the NQI, with 750 million rupees (about 2.5 million U.S. dollars) allocated to upgrade laboratories and facilities in responsible institutions.
The initiative is expected to enhance the safety and quality of Sri Lankan goods and services, including food and medicine, while ensuring that imported and exported products comply with international benchmarks, the statement said.
The government's goal is to develop an export economy, and it is essential to maintain correct international standards and compliance, the minister said, adding that a stronger quality system would protect consumers and businesses while increasing global demand for Sri Lankan products. ■