Srilanka, Feb. 17 -- The Sri Lanka Pharmaceuticals Manufacturers' Association on Friday (14) urged the Government to create a level playing field for them with a more favourable tax and tariff regime to compete with the international pharmaceutical suppliers.

SLPMA President Nalin Kannangara addressing the media said a range of tariff and non-tariff measures can be used to promote local pharmaceutical manufacturing and to encourage exports and give local industry relief from the competitive pressure of imports.

Kannangara also said a nearly 25 percent tax on imported ingredients, specially packaging material needed in pharmaceutical production is hampering the competitive edge of the local manufacturers as pharmaceutical imports from f...