In the context of the growing importance of standards in international trade and production, this study examines the implications of standards on two agricultural and food exporting sectors in Sri Lanka – tea and fisheries – and their strategic response. While food safety measures and requirements are at the centre of study, attention has also been given to compliance with basic quality standards. The study specifically seeks to find (i) the different types/forms of standards that are required for exporting tea and fish from Sri Lanka; (ii) the costs and benefits in meeting these standards; (iii) implications of these standards on businesses; and (iv) strategic responses of the exporters in meeting these standards.
