Industry and Entrepreneurship Minister Sunil Handunneththi said the Laksala retail network earned a profit of Rs. 109 million in January.
The minister added that Laksala’s ten outlets generated Rs. 921 million in sales revenue in 2025.
Speaking at the opening of the eleventh Laksala store in Negombo, the minister noted that the network, established in 1964, has contributed significantly to the promotion of local handicrafts. The new Negombo outlet focuses on supporting the tourism sector.
The minister said: “Previous administrations often closed opportunities for small-scale entrepreneurs or forced them to sell at a loss. Under our government, we are committed to developing such ventures and using them effectively for the benefit of the country and the people.
“Laksala is now in a highly developed and profitable state. That is why we decided to open a store in a tourism-heavy area like Negombo, to empower our artisans and bring their creations to the international market. The current chairperson, Sujeewa Senanayake, has done an outstanding job in leading this initiative.
“Although the estimated cost to open this store was Rs. 22 million, the team managed to complete it with only around Rs. 3 million, using old materials from the warehouse to create a remarkable space. In a competitive market like this, success comes through competition, and we are ready to provide that challenge.
“To ensure artisans thrive, more spaces like this are needed. A location that could have closed in a short time has now become profitable within a year, directly benefiting the development of the tourism industry. Ideally, the Tourism Minister should also be present today.
“Preparations are already underway to host the Expo 2026 International Exhibition in Sri Lanka from July 16–24, which will bring 1,500 international buyers to the country. This will be a great opportunity for our handicrafts. Together with local authorities, including the mayor and regional secretary, we are fulfilling this responsibility,” the minister said. (NewsWire)