Sri Lanka's largest business chamber steps up trade with BRICS

COLOMBO, May 3 (Xinhua) -- Sri Lanka's largest business chamber has signed a deal with an organization representing Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) to increase trade ties, a statement said here Thursday.

Sri Lanka's Ceylon Chamber of Commerce said it had signed the agreement with the Chamber for Promotion and Economic Development of the BRICS countries, which will promote products and services and foster alliances on a reciprocal basis.

Apparel, gems and jewelry, rubber, rubber products, spices, tea and tourism will be the main sectors promoted by Sri Lanka.

"Both institutions will call applications using a prescribed format from potential companies, which are interested in entering into partnerships for possible trade tie ups between Sri Lanka and BRICS countries," the chamber said in the statement.

The BRICS chamber will focus on promoting cosmetics, diamonds, emeralds, food and beverages, fresh oranges, medical equipment, pharmaceuticals and tourism.