The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce has released the Motor Vehicle Industry Report 2025/26, marking the return of its flagship publication after six years, as Sri Lanka’s automotive sector enters a new phase with the resumption of imports.

Key findings of the report are: 

• Revenue Contribution: Motor vehicle imports generated Rs. 896.4 billion in customs taxes, underscoring the sector’s importance to government finances.
• Local Assembly Growth: With over 15 local assembly plants and policies mandating at least 20% domestic content, the industry is shifting from pure imports to local value creation and job generation.
• Market Recovery: More than 327,000 new vehicles were registered in just six months of 2026, signaling strong consumer demand and a recovering market.
• Global EV Trends: One in four new cars sold globally is now electric, with EV sales surpassing 20 million units for the first time.
• AI in Automotive: From onboard safety systems to virtual vehicle testing, AI is cutting development times by up to 50%, boosting efficiency and innovation.

The publication provides in‑depth analysis of the role of the motor vehicle industry in Sri Lanka’s economy, recent policy developments, and global automotive trends shaping the future of mobility. 

It includes detailed data on vehicle imports, registrations, fleet composition, and ownership transfers, while also examining market trends across segments such as brand, fuel type, cylinder capacity, and district.

The report further explores industry challenges, emerging opportunities, and the future outlook for Sri Lanka’s automotive sector. It highlights how the industry is adapting to a renewed import environment, shifting consumer preferences, technological advances, and evolving regulations.

The Chamber emphasized that the report is designed as a resource for importers, assemblers, dealers, financial institutions, insurers, policymakers, investors, and other stakeholders, offering data‑driven insights to support informed decision‑making. (Newswire)

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The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce has announced that the 26th edition of the Sri Lanka Economic and Investment Summit will take place on October 12–13, 2026, bringing back the country’s foremost economic policy forum for another year of high‑level dialogue. 

Preparations are in their final stages as the Summit readies to convene policymakers, business leaders, diplomats, and development partners to address pressing national priorities and chart pathways for Sri Lanka’s economic future. 

Engagements with local and international speakers, development partners, diplomatic missions, and private sector stakeholders are advancing steadily, with interest in this year’s Summit reflecting strong positive sentiment around its continued relevance as a platform for dialogue on Sri Lanka’s economic future.

The 2026 Summit will focus on a range of pressing national priorities, including economic growth, competitiveness, investment, trade, productivity, fiscal and structural reforms, sustainability, and the changing global economic environment. 

Discussions will examine how Sri Lanka can build a more shock-resilient economy, strengthen its links to Asia’s growth networks through trade and regional value chains, reimagine healthcare as a driver of economic and social progress, address the balance between energy security, sustainability, and growth, and harness digital transformation to support national development in an increasingly connected world. The programme will also explore the future of education and skills development, as well as the opportunities and challenges presented by artificial intelligence and emerging technologies for economies, businesses, and societies.

The 26th edition follows on from the success of the 2025 Summit, which attracted over 850 participants, featured over 40 local and international speakers, and welcomed delegates from more than 20 countries. The event brought together senior government representatives, private sector leaders, diplomats, development agencies, researchers, and industry specialists, reinforcing its position as one of the region’s most respected economic forums.

Interest from regional business communities has been particularly encouraging, following a series of international outreach efforts and business promotion activities undertaken by the Ceylon Chamber in recent months. Among these was a high-level business delegation to Mumbai, which generated significant interest among Indian businesses and investors seeking greater engagement with Sri Lanka and its economic opportunities.

For more than two decades, the Sri Lanka Economic and Investment Summit has served as a key platform bringing together policymakers, business leaders, development partners, academics, and international experts to examine the challenges and opportunities shaping the country’s economic future. Over the years, the Summit has established itself as a valuable forum for dialogue on the issues most critical to the country’s economic progress. Its discussions have often helped frame important conversations around policy, reform, competitiveness, investment, and growth.

Further details on the Summit programme, speakers, and registration arrangements will be announced in due course. For more information, interested parties could contact Alikie via alikie@chamber.lk / 0115588805. (Newswire)

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Shiran Fernando has been appointed Secretary General and Chief Executive Officer of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, effective 8th May 2026.

Fernando succeeds Buwanekabahu Perera, who concludes a three‑year tenure at the helm of the Chamber. 

“This leadership transition reflects the Chamber’s long-standing belief that strong institutions are built through continuity, sound governance, and deliberate succession planning. Over the past three years, the Chamber has been further strengthened institutionally, allowing us to move forward with confidence. The Board is fully assured that this transition will ensure stability while positioning the Chamber to meet the evolving needs of our members and the broader economy,” Krishan Balendra, the Chairperson of The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce said, commenting on the transition.

According to a Ceylon Chamber of Commerce statement, Perera brings to a close a period of leadership marked by deep institutional strengthening and enhanced national and international engagement. In parallel with his role at the Chamber, he served for two years as Chair of the Indian Ocean Rim Association Business Forum (IORBF), during which Sri Lanka’s private-sector engagement within the Indian Ocean Rim region was significantly elevated. This leadership role enhanced the Chamber’s international profile, strengthened regional business linkages, and contributed positively to Sri Lanka’s economic diplomacy and commercial visibility.

Prior to joining the Chamber, Perera held over four decades of senior leadership positions in the banking and financial sector, bringing extensive experience in governance, strategy, and institutional leadership. His stewardship at the Chamber strengthened its governance culture, enhanced policy credibility, and deepened engagement with Government, international partners, and the broader private sector—ensuring the institution remains strong beyond any individual tenure.

Within this strengthened institutional framework, the appointment of Fernando represents continuity with purpose. Closely associated with the Chamber’s policy and research agenda for nearly a decade, he has served as Chief Economist and Head of the Economic Intelligence Unit, and currently as Chief Economic Policy Advisor. 

In these roles, he has played a central part in shaping the Chamber’s policy positions, engaging with national economic reform processes, and steering its flagship economic platforms. His deep familiarity with the Chamber’s members, committees, and governance framework ensures a seamless transition from strategy to execution, reflecting a natural progression within a carefully developed leadership pipeline that combines continuity with renewal.

Supporting this transition, institutional stability is further reinforced by the continued leadership of Alikie Perera, who serves as Deputy Secretary General, Chief Operating Officer / Financial Controller and CEO of GS1 Lanka. 

With over three decades of service spanning multiple leadership cycles and governance eras, including service under 16 successive Chairpersons, she has been instrumental in sustaining the Chamber’s operational integrity and financial discipline. 

Notably, she has played a key role over two decades in steering the Chamber’s flagship platforms, including the Sri Lanka Economic and Investment Summit (SLEIS) and the Best Corporate Citizens Awards [BCC Awards], both of which have become nationally and internationally recognised benchmarks. Her continued role provides assurance that institutional memory and organisational continuity remain firmly intact.

The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce added that together, this leadership transition reflects the Chamber’s confidence in its people, its systems, and its future, anchored in experience, strengthened by continuity, and focused on delivering long-term value for its members and the country. (Newswire)

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Sri Lanka’s export sector showed resilience in 2025, with many firms reporting higher revenues despite cost pressures, logistics challenges, and regulatory hurdles, according to the latest Export Barometer Survey 2026 of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce.

The survey, which gathered insights from exporters across multiple industries, highlights market diversification as a key growth strategy. 

New international markets and Free Trade Agreements are seen as critical drivers for expanding opportunities.

It also underscores the rising importance of digital adoption, sustainability practices, and policy stability in strengthening competitiveness. 

The Survey underscores that these factors are essential for building long-term resilience and ensuring Sri Lanka’s position in global trade.

More information : https://www.chamber.lk/trade-intelligence-for-the-private-sector/ (Newswire)

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The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce successfully hosted a seminar and panel discussion titled “Access to Finance for SMEs: Understanding Government Concessional Loan Facilities” in February, which drew over 130 participants.

The event underscored the strong interest among small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in accessing concessional financing opportunities and strengthening resilience through formal financial mechanisms.

Delivering the keynote address, Deputy Minister of Industries and Entrepreneurship Development Chathuranga Abeysinghe highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting SMEs through concessional loan schemes. He emphasized the importance of improving access to affordable credit and streamlining digital processes to empower entrepreneurs across the country.

The session was followed by a panel discussion featuring senior representatives from government and the financial sector. The panel provided practical clarity on eligibility, application procedures, and digital pathways for concessional loan facilities, while also addressing challenges SMEs face in securing finance. 

Participants engaged directly with the Deputy Minister and panel members, raising questions, sharing experiences, and receiving timely solutions.

A dedicated Business Clinic further enriched the programme, enabling one‑on‑one consultations with key SME service providers, including DFCC Bank, Union Bank, the National Enterprise Development Authority, the Sri Lanka Export Development Board, and DHL. 

This interactive component allowed SMEs to explore financing options, clarify application pathways, and access institutional support services tailored to their needs. (Newswire)

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The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce has drawn attention to the proposed Inland Revenue (Amendment) Bill 2026, outlining key changes that will significantly impact individuals and businesses.

Taking to ‘X’, the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce said that, issued on 24 February 2026, the proposed amendments introduce major changes to deductions, withholding taxes, filing requirements, and compliance rules.

According to the Chamber, key measures include stricter deduction rules requiring banking channels, expanded withholding tax obligations for freelancers and service providers, a new instalment tax system from April 2026, clearer residency criteria, and stronger enforcement powers.

Taxpayers are advised to review these changes carefully, as they signal a shift toward tighter compliance and transparency in Sri Lanka’s tax system.

For more information, visit https://documents.gov.lk/view/bills/2026/2/13-2026_E.pdf (Newswire)

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The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce says all funds originally allocated for social activities in the Sri Lanka Economic and Investment Summit 2025 will be allocated to support relief efforts in Sri Lanka, following Cyclone Ditwah. 

Addressing the summit, Chairperson of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, Krishan Balendra, said that continuing with the summit in this revised format is essential to fostering the collaboration, investment, and policy dialogue needed to drive an effective and inclusive recovery.

He further said that the Sri Lanka Economic and Investment Summit was originally designed as a platform to advance economic growth and investment, but, in light of the recent disaster and the need to rebuild, the Board of the Chamber was of the view that it was necessary to move ahead with the summit, but with even greater meaning. 

The summit now serves as an essential forum to collectively reflect on the road to recovery, discuss strategies to strengthen national resilience, and reaffirm our shared commitment to rebuilding a stronger and more stable Sri Lanka. Our priority is to support the country’s recovery and the restoration of communities and livelihoods. The private sector has a critical role to play in this effort, and we remain steadfast in mobilizing our networks and resources to contribute meaningfully to long-term resilience and sustainable development, he said. 

Full statement : 

It is my great pleasure to warmly welcome you to the flagship event of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce –  the Sri Lanka Economic & Investment Summit.

Ladies and gentlemen, before we begin today’s proceedings, it is important that we pause to acknowledge the grave impact of Cyclone Ditwah, which has brought immense devastation across several parts of our country over the past days. We mourn the tragic loss of lives, and we stand with the thousands of families who have been displaced from their homes and whose livelihoods have been disrupted. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their loved ones, and all those who are still recovering from the aftermath of this disaster.

In the wake of this national crisis, the Chamber together with the generous support of our members have been working closely with Government agencies to coordinate urgent relief efforts. The unwavering resilience of Sri Lankans is evident in moments such as these. It is a pivotal time for the nation to come together, pooling our collective strength to restore lives, livelihoods, and stability.

The Sri Lanka Economic and Investment Summit was originally designed as a platform to advance economic growth and investment. In light of the recent disaster and the need to rebuild, the Board of the Chamber was of the view it was necessary in moving ahead with the summit but with even greater meaning. The summit now serves as an essential forum to collectively reflect on the road to recovery, discuss strategies to strengthen national resilience, and reaffirm our shared commitment to rebuilding a stronger and more stable Sri Lanka. Our priority is to support the country’s recovery and the restoration of communities and livelihoods. The private sector has a critical role to play in this effort, and we remain steadfast in mobilizing our networks and resources to contribute meaningfully to long-term resilience and sustainable development.

We will donate all funds originally allocated for social activities in the summit to support relief efforts. We believe that continuing with the summit in this revised format is essential to fostering the collaboration, investment, and policy dialogue needed to drive an effective and inclusive recovery.

This Summit is one of the most anticipated events on Sri Lanka’s corporate calendar, and it is a privilege for the Chamber to host this landmark gathering for the 25th consecutive year, since its inception in 2000. This year, we are proud to expand its scope by explicitly integrating the investment dimension, recognising that attracting sustainable and high-quality investment is central to Sri Lanka’s long-term economic transformation.

Accordingly, our theme this year — “Gateway to Growth: Asia’s Emerging Opportunity” — reflects both Sri Lanka’s potential and our collective aspiration to position the country more strongly within a rapidly evolving regional landscape.

We are deeply encouraged by the strong participation of over 800 delegates. We are extremely encouraged by the participation of over 100 foreign delegates and investors, thank you for travelling to Colombo to be with us. We know many of you are eager to gain deeper insights into Sri Lanka’s economic trajectory, reform progress, sectoral opportunities, and partnership potential. We hope that the conversations over the next two days will be productive, insightful, and inspiring.

Sri Lanka today stands on a clear and credible path of economic revival. After a period of immense challenge, we now see:

1. steady, broad-based growth,
2. a resurgence in exports, tourism, remittances, and investment,
3. fiscal consolidation and reforms that have restored stability,
4. completion of domestic debt restructuring,
5. inflation brought firmly under control, and
6. renewed confidence returning to markets and consumers alike.

International partners have also recognised this progress.

• Former IMF First Deputy Managing Director Gita Gopinath recently described Sri Lanka’s recovery as a “stand-out experience” and “remarkable progress within a short period.”
• The World Bank, in its latest Public Finance Review, emphasised that the scale and speed of Sri Lanka’s fiscal adjustment stand out “by historical and international standards.”

These reforms are translating into real activity on the ground, with growth now approaching 5% of GDP, underpinned by stronger investor sentiment.

For investors, the message is clear: Sri Lanka is once again open, stable, and ready for business. Our strategic location at the crossroads of the Indian Ocean — a short distance from India — positions us uniquely as a gateway to South Asia and the broader region.

Over the next two days, this Summit will:

• examine the macroeconomic outlook for Sri Lanka in the coming years;
• draw lessons from international experiences of countries that have emerged successfully from debt crises and implemented credible growth paths
• spotlight high-growth and high-potential sectors such as tourism, logistics, ports, exports, capital markets manufacturing, and technology;
• and bring together perspectives from global speakers representing Malaysia, Greece, the Netherlands, Australia, India, and many others — alongside leading voices from our multilateral, regional, and local institutions.

We are grateful to all resource persons — especially our moderators — for taking time out of their busy schedules to share their expertise with us.

I also wish to extend my sincere appreciation to our Summit Chair and Committee, for their strategic guidance; and the dedicated Chamber Summit team, who have worked tirelessly behind the scenes, navigating numerous challenges, to ensure the seamless execution of this event. 

As we embark on this 25th edition of the Summit, I extend my best wishes for meaningful dialogue, insightful analysis, and productive networking. May the outcomes of our discussions help shape credible policies, drive interest from our foreign participants into realized investments, and unlock the transformational growth that Sri Lanka urgently needs.

I also hope the Summit inspires both public and private sector leaders to act as reform champions — catalysts for progress, innovation, and long-term prosperity.

Thank you, and I wish you all an enriching and successful Summit. (Newswire)

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The newly appointed Board of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce presented their vision, contributions to the national economy, future plans and proposals for the upcoming budget during a meeting with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake at the Presidential Secretariat today (11).

During the discussion, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake explained the government’s current economic approach, its direction and the manner in which the state and private sectors are being integrated to drive development and provide necessary facilities to the business community. 

The President emphasized that setting clear goals and formulating policies to achieve them can support economic growth, promote social well-being and strengthen environmental sustainability, thereby contributing to a more prosperous future for the country. 

Senior Economic Advisor to the President, Duminda Hulangamuwa, Chairman of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce Krishan Balendra, Vice Chairman Bingumal Thewarathanthri, Deputy Vice Chairman Vinod Hirdaramani and several others were present at the meeting. (Newswire)

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Welcoming the UK Government’s liberalisation of rules of origin under its Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS), set to take effect in early 2026, the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce says this important step reflects the UK’s continued commitment to greater trade openness and flexibility, offering Sri Lankan exporters enhanced access to one of their key markets.

Issuing a statement, the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce said the reforms, which allow Sri Lankan apparel manufacturers to source up to 100% of inputs from any country while retaining tariff-free access to the UK, will provide a timely boost for the apparel industry—Sri Lanka’s largest export sector. 

The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce further said that, in addition, the expanded regional cumulation arrangements across 18 Asian countries will further strengthen supply chains and open up opportunities for other value-added exports.

Krishan Balendra, Chairperson of The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, stated: “We deeply appreciate the efforts of the UK Government, the British High Commission in Sri Lanka, the Sri Lankan Government, and the Joint Apparel Association Forum in advancing this initiative. The liberalised rules of origin will provide a strong impetus to Sri Lanka’s apparel industry and help strengthen our position as a trusted and competitive partner in global supply chains.”

The Ceylon Chamber further encouraged Sri Lankan exporters to familiarise themselves with the new trade arrangements and prepare to take full advantage of the opportunities available. 

To support this transition, the Ceylon Chamber will collaborate closely with the UK High Commission and the Government of Sri Lanka to disseminate information and build broad-based awareness across the private sector, it added. (Newswire)

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By Saumya Amarasiriwardane (Economist, Ceylon Chamber of Commerce)

In 2024, the global approach to measuring business climate saw a major transformation. The World Bank Group introduced the Business Ready (B-READY) Index, its new flagship report aimed at assessing the business and investment environment across countries. This index replaces the discontinued Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) report and brings with it a more robust, implementation-focused, and reform-oriented methodology. While the inaugural edition of the B-READY Index covered 50 countries, Sri Lanka was not included. However, the World Bank has indicated its intention to expand the coverage globally by 2026. This gives Sri Lanka a valuable window of opportunity to get ready and initiate key reforms. 

What is the B-READY Index?

The B-READY Index is built around three core pillars: Regulatory Framework, Public Services, and Operational Efficiency. These pillars are assessed through ten core thematic areas; business entry, business location, utility services, labor, financial services, international trade, taxation, dispute resolution, market competition, and business insolvency. In addition to these core topics, the index incorporates three cross-cutting themes digital adoption, environmental sustainability, and gender equity, which are integrated throughout the assessment process. One of the most significant advancements in this index is its methodology: it combines statutory (de jure) legal and regulatory analysis with practical (de facto) firm-level survey data. This approach ensures that both the letter of the law and its real-world implementation are evaluated.

According to the World Bank’s B-Ready-2024 report, the private sector is the engine of global development, generating approximately 90% of employment, over 70% of global output, and more than 80% of government revenues in developing countries. However, private investment in many of these economies has slowed since the global financial crisis. Governments alone cannot meet the scale of today’s development challenges. Instead, progress will depend on mobilizing private capital and creating an environment in which businesses, entrepreneurs, workers, and the broader society can thrive. The B-READY Index is a central part of the World Bank’s strategy to foster a dynamic and resilient private sector that drives sustainable and inclusive growth.

Why the B-READY Index Matters for Sri Lanka

The B-READY Index is more than just a benchmarking exercise, it is a reform blueprint that can support Sri Lanka’s economic recovery and long-term growth. It serves as a catalyst for private sector development by focusing on every stage of a business’s lifecycle, from entry to exit. This allows countries to identify and address systemic inefficiencies, unlock entrepreneurship, and build a more competitive economic environment.

A strong performance on the B-READY Index sends a powerful signal to global investors. It demonstrates that Sri Lanka is reform-oriented and ready for business. In an increasingly competitive region, where countries are actively courting foreign direct investment, inclusion in a credible, globally recognized index can help position Sri Lanka as a preferred investment destination. The index also provides policymakers with data-driven insights to benchmark Sri Lanka’s performance against its peers and global best practices. This evidence-based approach supports the design and implementation of targeted reforms while enhancing transparency and accountability.

In addition, the B-READY Index’s emphasis on digitalization, environmental sustainability, and gender equity aligns with Sri Lanka’s own development priorities. By encouraging reforms that promote inclusivity, environmental responsibility, and technological adoption, the index supports a holistic model of growth that benefits not only businesses but society at large.

Is Sri Lanka B-READY?

Sri Lanka has several strengths that support private sector development, including a well-educated workforce, a strategic geographic location, and a history of openness to trade and investment. Despite these advantages, the country faces longstanding bottlenecks that hinder its business environment. Regulatory processes are often complex and inconsistently implemented. Infrastructure gaps remain in areas such as logistics, utilities, and digital connectivity. Access to finance continues to be limited, especially for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The labor market faces skills mismatches and structural rigidities. Public service delivery is often hindered by inefficiencies and a lack of transparency.

These challenges closely mirror the thematic areas of B-READY.

• Business Entry: Regulatory processes are fragmented and duplicative.
• Utility Services: Infrastructure gaps in electricity and water affect business reliability.
• Labor: Skills mismatches persist across sectors.
• Financial Services: SMEs face limited access to credit.
• International Trade: Delays in cargo clearance and fragmented border processes undermine competitiveness.
• Taxation: Tax administration lacks consistency and user-friendly digital interfaces.
• Dispute Resolution: Legal procedures are slow and costly.
• Market Competition & Insolvency: Fair competition frameworks and bankruptcy laws need modernization.
• Business Insolvency: Outdated legal frameworks and prolonged court procedures hinder efficient resolution and make insolvency processes challenging.
• Digital Adoption: Most public services remain offline or only partially automated.

Opportunities for Reform

To position itself for future inclusion in the B-READY Index, Sri Lanka should initiate a focused set of reforms that are both achievable and high-impact. One of the most effective ways to enhance efficiency, transparency, and investor confidence is through digitalization. Automating public services such as business registration, tax filing, customs clearance, and utility connections can significantly reduce costs, processing times, and administrative discretion; key elements evaluated under B-READY.

Another important area of reform is streamlining the permit and approval processes. Businesses in Sri Lanka often face delays due to overlapping mandates and fragmented processes across regulatory agencies. A coordinated, one-stop-shop with time-bound service delivery can substantially improve the ease and predictability of doing business.

Sri Lanka should also prioritize trade facilitation reforms under the B-READY Index’s “International Trade” component. The country’s competitiveness as a trading hub is undermined by delays in cargo clearance, inconsistent application of regulations, and inadequate digital integration among border agencies. Accelerating the implementation of key commitments under the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA), such as introducing a fully functional National Single Window, streamlining documentary requirements, and enhancing risk-based inspection mechanisms, can significantly reduce trade costs. These reforms not only benefit exporters and importers, but also strengthen Sri Lanka’s position as a reliable and efficient link in global supply chains.

Equally important is the need to institutionalize private sector feedback in the reform process. Since B-READY prioritizes actual business experiences, it is essential to engage continuously with SMEs, exporters, and investors to identify bottlenecks and monitor the implementation of reforms. Real-time feedback mechanisms and structured public-private dialogues can help ensure reforms are responsive and adaptive.

The importance of preparing for the B-READY Index also aligns with the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce’s Vision 2030 policy document, which outlines a roadmap of transformative reforms needed to unlock Sri Lanka’s economic potential. Vision 2030 identifies priority areas such as improving the investment climate, simplifying regulations, enhancing trade facilitation, and fostering innovation, all of which closely align with the themes covered under the B-READY Index. 

A Timely Opportunity

Sri Lanka’s absence from the first edition of the B-READY Index is not a reason for concern, but a timely reminder of the urgency for reform. With the World Bank aiming for global coverage by 2026, the next one-and-half years offer a crucial window to initiate meaningful changes that will not only improve Sri Lanka’s ranking but also build the foundations for a more competitive, inclusive, and resilient economy.

Being “Business Ready” is not just about gaining international recognition, it is about undertaking reforms that unlock investment, empower entrepreneurs, and create sustainable growth for the country. 

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The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce has issued a statement clarifying that it was not connected to recent media statements related to Central Bank policies.

The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce said it was in no way connected to or involved with the statements recently attributed to “The Sri Lanka Chamber of Commerce” regarding directives issued by the Deputy Minister of Finance and the Central Bank of Sri Lanka.

Issuing a statement, the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce confirmed that no employee or representative of it was involved in the media report or the statements made during the referenced press briefing.

“Any official views or positions of the Ceylon Chamber are communicated directly by authorised representatives through our established channels. For accurate information regarding our work and statements, please refer to our official website at www.chamber.lk, or contact the Ceylon Chamber directly,” it added. (Newswire)

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The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce (CCC) has issued a 10-point proposal to newly elected President Anura Kumara Dissanayake regarding several issues faced by the nation at present.

As per a statement shared by the CCC on ‘X’, the issues include the restructuring of Sri Lanka’s debt, the on-arrival visa system, and the agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

The CCC’s 10-point proposal urges the President to prioritize the following 10 areas on the economic front in the first six months of the term;

1. Complete external debt restructuring building on the recent announcement of the commercial creditors. Further, continue with the IMF program with the aim of a successful third review and fourth tranche disbursement.
2. The expected changes in expenditure outlined in the Manifesto to be implemented if backed by credible revenue proposals that don’t burden the existing taxpayer. Relook at matters related to revenue collection such as RAMIS and SVAT.
3. Resolve visa on arrival issue immediately
4. Implement Digital Public Infrastructure & Digital ID
5. Commit towards the implementation of the National Single Window for Trade and take steps to achieve the low-hanging fruits that will provide benefits to the trade and people.
6. Form the necessary delivery space for the reforms. The Chamber’s Vision 2030 document recommended a National Implementation Oversight Committee tasked with reform delivery.
7. Implement the legislation related to the Economic Transformation Act, Public Debt Management Act, Public Financial Management and the Sri Lanka Electricity Act
8. Avoid implementing ad-hoc gazettes/circulars that can adversely impact the functioning of the private sector. Changes are to be made in consultation with the private sector and relevant stakeholders.
9. Follow through on the Government Action plan that was prepared based on the IMF Governance Diagnostic Assessment.
10. Recommence the Trade Agreement negotiations with China, India & Indonesia.

Sharing its statement, the Ceylon Chamber assured its unstinted commitment and wholehearted support to engage productively with the newly elected President in transforming Sri Lanka towards a developed economy. (Newswire)

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National Peoples’ Power (NPP) Leader MP Anura Kumara Dissanayake engaged in a discussion with the Chairman of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce (CCC) Duminda Hulangamuwa on Thursday (Aug 01).

The discussion at the Head Office of the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), saw the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce delegation handing over a copy of its comprehensive policy document titled ‘Vision 2030’ to the NPP Leader.

The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce delegation included its Vice Chairman Krishan Balendra, Deputy Vice Chairman Bingumal Thewarathanthri, and board members Amal Cabraal, Sarath Ganegoda, Supun Weerasinghe, and Vinod Hirdaramani.

The NPP delegation consisted of its Executive members Prof. Anil Jayantha and Prof. Harshana Suriyapperuma. (Newswire)

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A meeting has taken place between a delegation of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce and representatives of the National People’s Power (NPP).

According to the NPP, Its Leader MP Anura Kumara Dissanayake participated in the discussion held at the head office of the Janatha Vimukthi Peramana (JVP) today (Jan 31).

A lengthy discussion had taken place regarding the issues faced by the business sector in Sri Lanka in the face of the economic and political crisis and the NPP’s policy approaches to solving the economic crisis.

On behalf of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, its president, Duminda Hulangamuwa, local managing partner of Ernst & Young, Bigumal Thevarathantri of Standard Chartered Bank, Supun Weerasinghe, chief executive officer of Dialog Axiata, and Murtaza Jafferjee, President of Advocata Institute, were present for this meeting.

In addition to MP Anura Dissanayake, the General Secretary of the JVP, Tilvin Silva, National Executive Members of NPP KD Lalkantha, Vijitha Herath and Engineer Kumara Jayakodi also participated, representing the NPP. (NewsWire)

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The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce has raised concerns about recent developments in the healthcare sector, particularly regarding the quality of pharmaceutical products procured for the public healthcare system.  

In a statement, the Ceylon Chamber pointed out, while the shortage of essential medicines has stemmed from the economic crisis, it persists due to the lack of a robust and transparent procurement system.

“We recommend that swift action be taken to ensure and enhance the public procurement of medicines in a transparent manner which requires registration with the regulator following approved and established guidelines,” it said. 

The Ceylon Chamber added that along with its affiliated associations and professional bodies, it stands ready to support the policymakers in improving and uplifting the current state of the healthcare system.

Full statement: 

The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce is concerned about recent developments in the healthcare sector, particularly regarding the quality of pharmaceutical products procured for the public healthcare system.  While the shortage of essential medicines has stemmed from the economic crisis, it persists due to the lack of a robust and transparent procurement system.

We recommend that swift action be taken to ensure and enhance the public procurement of medicines in a transparent manner which requires registration with the regulator following approved and established guidelines. The National Medicines Regulatory Authority must play a much stronger, transparent, and independent role in ensuring that high-quality medicines are procured, including essential medicines that are procured through an emergency process.

Further, the pricing of medicines should adopt a market pricing formula developed by relevant experts similar to that adopted for other commodities such as fuel and gas that were previously subject to price controls. A pricing formula will ensure sustainability in the quality of medicines procured.

We recognise the recent directive of the President to streamline the procurement system. The Ceylon Chamber along with its affiliated associations and professional bodies such as the Sri Lanka Medical Association stand ready to support the policymakers in improving and uplifting the current state of the healthcare system that will benefit the people of the country. (NewsWire)

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