The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe - Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development

¶ 01 Hon. Presiding Member, many points were raised today as we legalize regulations for geographical indications under the Intellectual Property Act. Let me first respond regarding paddy prices. We determined the price process at the correct time. In the Northern and Eastern Districts, as harvesting commenced, the country’s paddy price had risen. To prevent a subsequent price fall as harvesting intensifies—especially mid-month when harvests increase—we announced a support price and the Government is now participating in procurement through SATHOSA and the Paddy Marketing Board.

¶ 02 On the storage facilities matter raised by an Hon. Member, we will examine and intervene as necessary, including to assist farmers’ storage.

¶ 03 There was much discussion about the AG’s intervention in the Lasantha Wickrematunge murder case. As the NPP Government, we clearly state: we will establish the rule of law, ensure fair application of the law, and pursue legal action regarding killings perpetrated under governments, revealing the truth and punishing offenders. Today, the President has summoned CID officers and the Attorney General to review concerns over prevailing impunity. We will not intervene to free murderers or allow impunity.

¶ 04 Regarding MPs’ medical insurance, false claims were made. In 2004, MPs received medical insurance valued at Rs. 200,000. It was increased on 20.08.2023 to Rs. 1 million, valid until 20.08.2024. On 20.08.2024, the 225 MPs were insured again through Sri Lanka Insurance, valid until 20.08.2025. It is false to say the NPP Government newly increased it.

¶ 05 On the Eppawala Phosphate Company, Hon. Chamara Sampath, a former State Minister of Industries, claimed to have improved the company. There is the Bulankulama judgment and Ministry Secretary instructions not to sell as rock phosphate. Despite a Cabinet decision dated 02.11.2012, the company decided to sell 28% phosphate content to three companies, but exports went out with 38% content, causing an estimated loss of Rs. 1,200 million. Legal action is being pursued. Further, instead of 10,000 tons, 20,000 tons were given to DM Traders. The connections and legal action concerning DM Traders can be explained to the Hon. Member if he were present.

¶ 06 Hon. D.V. Chanaka raised the import of lime (hunugal) for water purification by the National Water Supply and Drainage Board. Yes, 1,500 metric tons were ordered; two consignments have arrived—380 tons and 209 tons—with more to come. Normally, after awarding tenders, samples are tested. If a sample is slightly below the required level, we still retest upon arrival. SLS reported higher chromium than the sample. However, landed goods must be cleared from the port to avoid demurrage; therefore, the consignments are presently in our custody pending final acceptance tests. If the consignment fails final tests, under the contract the supplier must take everything back.

¶ 07 (Hon. D.V. Chanaka interjected that reports show 14 mg; the Minister noted 12 mg and said the subject Minister would make a statement the next day and details could be obtained there.)

¶ 08 On CEB and the WindForce 50 MW wind farm, some allege the Cabinet violated the tender process. That is not so. The process, including appeals to the Appeals Committee, was followed. Awarding to the lowest bidder saves over Rs. 3 billion. The Government’s decisions were to benefit the people, not friends.

¶ 09 Turning to today’s core subject: under the WTO framework—GATT, GATS, and TRIPS (1995)—we must meet obligations on intellectual property. Although Sri Lanka enacted the Intellectual Property Act, No. 36 of 2003, we did not issue the necessary regulations to implement geographical indications (GIs). In 2022, we passed the Intellectual Property (Amendment) Act, No. 8 of 2022, and now we bring the regulations to register and grant GIs. Without this, our producers lack protection and cannot secure good prices domestically or internationally.

¶ 10 TRIPS covers GIs, copyrights, trademarks, patents, industrial designs, and trade secrets. By establishing GI criteria and procedures, we can identify the specific region, city, or country and the unique characteristics of a product; secure legal protection; and prevent counterfeiting, adulteration, and misuse—thereby protecting our products nationally and internationally.

¶ 11 Many countries and products have branded through such recognition: wine with Italy, champagne and cheeses with France, certain teas with India, wagyu-type beef with Japan, Banarasi silk with India, Italian pastas, etc. We can similarly brand Sri Lankan products—coconut and toddy-based products, kitul, palmyrah, gems, reed (renda), and more—so they are recognized as uniquely Sri Lankan. Tourists say 40% come wanting to drink a king coconut; a GI for king coconut would open large market space and export potential.

¶ 12 GI benefits include higher prices in global and online markets due to authenticity and consumer protection, and safeguarding traditional knowledge and heritage. There are challenges: disputes like India–Pakistan over basmati, combating counterfeits (requiring market oversight), differing national laws, and international recognition hurdles. Nonetheless, the economic gains and producer protection make this essential.

¶ 13 GI registration is not for individuals; it is for groups of producers or associations/cooperatives. The steps: identify the product and region; form an association; compile the required indication specifications; apply to the National Intellectual Property Office (NIPO); examination and verification; then, upon satisfaction, registration and grant of the GI.

¶ 14 By implementing these regulations, we broaden protection and market access for our producers at home and abroad, contributing to economic growth. I thank all Members, Government and Opposition, for their contributions.