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John Keells CG Auto opens BYD showroom & service center: Launches Plug-in Hybrid BYD SEALION 6 DM – i

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2 years ago

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The ceremonially opening of the BYD Service Center by (from left) CG Corp Global Managing Director Nirvana Kumar Chaudhary, BYD Auto Industry Co. Ltd, General Manager of Asia - Pacific Auto Sales Division, Liu Xueliang, Chairperson of the John Keells Group, Krishan Balendra

Plug-in Hybrid BYD SEALION 6 DM – i launched in Sri Lanka

Iterates commitment to develop EV infrastructure and sustainable transportation

John Keells CG Auto, the authorized distributor for BYD passenger vehicles in Sri Lanka, proudly opened the doors of the BYD showroom and the service center in Colombo with the launch of the Plug-in Hybrid BYD SEALION 6 DM – I, a JKH news release said.

The grand opening ceremony, held at the showroom situated at 447, Union Place, Colombo 02, was attended by prominent dignitaries including BYD Auto Industry Co. Ltd, General Manager of Asia – Pacific Auto Sales Division, Liu Xueliang, Chairperson of the John Keells Group, Krishan Balendra and CG Corp Global Managing Director Nirvana Kumar Chaudhary.

Speaking at the ceremony, BYD Auto Industry Co. Ltd. General Manager Auto Sales Division (Asia- Pacific), Liu Xueliang committed to supporting Sri Lanka with the adoption of a sustainable transport ecosystem. “Over the past 27 years, we have worked on perfecting every aspect of creating a sustainable transport eco system across different regions. Our expertise and experience in technologies ranging from batteries, electric motors, electronic control systems and automotive grade chips have made us the global leader in New Energy Vehicles. We are delighted to funnel this knowledge and expertise to Sri Lanka and support the nation in creating a sustainable transportation industry.”

The BYD SEALION 6 DM – i, the first plug-in hybrid automobile launched in Sri Lanka, showcases the manufacturer’s advanced electricity- based Dual Motor – Intelligence (DM-i) plug-in hybrid technology. Supplemented by an engine for additional support, the BYD SEALION 6 DM – i is distinguished by its high-power motor drive and large-capacity power battery as the main supply,” the release said.

“The technical prowess of the SEALION 6 DM – i includes a high-efficiency engine and an electric hybrid system that boasts a highly integrated powertrain, reducing both weight and volume by 30%. With an impressive range of 1092 kilometers, the SEALION 6 DM – i combines cutting-edge features like a 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen, a safe head-up display, the Ocean Aesthetics Design Concept, and the Oceanic Crystal gear lever. service center expected to offer comprehensive support to the new generation of automobiles in the country. Located at 186, Vauxhall Street, Colombo 2, the service center is home to the first NEV-focused workshop in Sri Lanka. The state-of-the-art facility, equipped to service fully electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid automobiles purchased from John Keells CG Auto, offers access to engineers and specialists trained by BYD. Moreover, the center includes specialized tools and equipment for high voltage (HV) repairs and services.

“Notably, the service center has been fitted out with unique BYD tools such as the Vehicle Diagnostic System (VDS), radar calibration system, and battery testing equipment which ensure precise maintenance. The workshop is also equipped with a 30kW fast charger and a 7kW wall charger for vehicle charging and testing purposes.

“Additional features include a temperature controlled battery storage room, body and paint repair facilities, vehicle detailing, wheel alignment, brake bleeding, A/C recharging, and comprehensive washing facilities. The company further ensure environmental compliance with the installation of an advanced water treatment plant and stringent fire safety protocols that meet all industry standards.”

Commenting on the dawn of a new era in sustainable transportation, John Keells Holdings Chairperson Krishan Balendra said: “Our partnership with BYD in November 2023 marked a significant milestone for the John Keells Group and Sri Lanka’s automotive landscape. This collaboration aligns with our commitment to sustainability and innovation, offering a transformative shift towards cleaner, more efficient transportation solutions. By introducing BYD’s advanced new energy vehicles to Sri Lanka, we are not only expanding our portfolio but also supporting the country’s broader environmental goals.

“We are also dedicated to fostering a robust ecosystem for new energy vehicles which includes establishing a comprehensive charging infrastructure, developing a state-of-the-art service center, ensuring a steady supply chain, and providing careers for skilled technicians to support this transition. We are confident that this initiative will pave the way for a greener future and enhance the overall mobility experience in Sri Lanka.”

Also speaking at the event CG Corp Global Managing Director Nirvana Kumar Chaudhary added, “CG Corp Global is proud to support Sri Lanka’s journey towards sustainable development. The introduction of BYD’s advanced NEVs will play a crucial role in achieving our environmental goals. We are committed to fostering innovation and supporting initiatives that drive economic and environmental progress in Sri Lanka.”

About JKCG Auto

John Keells CG Auto (Private) Limited (JKCG) is a subsidiary of John Keells Holdings PLC and CG Auto Pte. Ltd, having entered the automotive industry in 2023. JKCG Auto is the authorized distributor of BYD passenger vehicles, parts, and services in Sri Lanka, committed to building customer confidence in New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) and setting new standards for NEVs while supporting the development of an ecosystem for NEVs in Sri Lanka.

About JKH

JKH is the largest conglomerate listed on the Colombo Stock Exchange, operating with over 70 companies in seven diverse industry sectors. With a history of over 150 years, John Keells Group provides employment to over 14,000 persons and has been ranked as Sri Lanka’s ‘Most Respected Entity’ for the last 18 years by LMD magazine. John Keells Holdings PLC was ranked first for the fourth consecutive year in the ‘Transparency in Corporate Reporting Assessment’ by Transparency International Sri Lanka. A full member of the World Economic Forum and a participant of the UN Global Compact, JKH drives its CSR vision of “Empowering the Nation for Tomorrow” through John Keells Foundation and through the social entrepreneurship initiative, ‘Plasticcycle’, which is a catalyst in significantly reducing plastic pollution in Sri Lanka.

About BYD

BYD is a multinational high-tech company devoted to leveraging technological innovations for a better life. Founded in 1995 as a rechargeable battery maker, BYD now boasts a diverse business scope covering automobiles, rail transit, new energy, and electronics, with over 30 industrial parks in China, the United States, Canada, Japan, Brazil, Hungary, and India. From energy generation and storage to its applications, BYD is dedicated to providing zero-emission energy solutions that reduce global reliance on fossil fuels. Its new energy vehicle footprint now covers 6 continents, over 70 countries and regions, and more than 400 cities. Listed in both Hong Kong and Shenzhen Stock Exchanges, the company is known to be a Fortune Global 500 enterprise that furnishes innovations in pursuit of a greener world. For more information, please visit www.bydglobal.com.

About CG Corp. Global

With a prolific history of over 140 years, CG Global is a distinguished multinational corporation headquartered in Dubai, with its Global Electric Mobility headquarters in Singapore. From its humble beginnings, it has grown to become Nepal’s largest business enterprise. Today, CG Corp Global employs 20,000 people and operates across more than 32 countries worldwide, spanning diverse business sectors. The group has been constantly investing into Sri Lanka since 2001 in hospitality sector with reputed properties Taj Samudra Colombo, Jet Wing, CHC, etc; major acquisitions in financial services sector under Union Bank of Colombo keeping confidence in Sri Lanka economy and people.


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Cabinet nod to accept increased Loan Grant provided by the Asian Development Bank under Policy Based Loan Facilities – 2026

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9 hours ago

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2026/06/16

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Approval of the Cabinet of Ministers was granted at their meeting held on 16.03.2026 to obtain United States Dollars 380 million from the policy – based loan facilities of the Asian Development Bank in the year 2026.

United States Dollars 100 million out of it is allocated for Trade, Investment and Industries Development Programme – Sub Programme 1. However, amidst the economic uncertainty resulting from the current Middle East crisis and the climatic tragedies, the Asian Development Bank has agreed to assist
by increasing a supplementary financing package of United States Dollars 100 million so that it will beMincreased up to United States Dollars 200 million.

Accordingly, the Cabinet of Ministers approved the resolution furnished by the President in his capacity as the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development to take further measures to obtain the said loan grant.

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Development deficit getting in the way of SL joining RCEP – Trade Ministry Secretary

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23 hours ago

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2026/06/16

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Principal panelists at Pathfinder Foundation forum.

Sri Lanka is not quite ready to join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), since it is lacking sufficient development, Trade Ministry Secretary K.A. Vimalenthirarajah said.

‘At present the Trade Ministry is establishing Sri Lanka’s readiness to join RCEP, which consists of 15 countries, through several channels, Vimalenthirarajah said at a recent round table discussion titled, ‘Sri Lanka’s Pathway to RCEP and the Emerging Global Trading Order’, organized by the Pathfinder Foundation and held at the Colombo Club, Taj Samudra.

‘Sri Lanka is actively accelerating its compliance efforts to join the 15-nation RCEP having submitted its required accession questionnaire in early 2026, he explained.

Vimalenthirarajah added: ‘The Cabinet has established a high-level policy and working committee and also obtained some technical assistance from multilateral partners because complying with RCEP requirements is challenging. Subsequently, this body responded to the follow-up questions that came up and had discussions with RCEP representatives and it expects more follow-up questions with regard to Sri Lanka’s readiness to join RCEP.

‘Sri Lanka has also secured political and diplomatic support from current RCEP members, including Australia, New Zealand, and Indonesia, to facilitate its entry process.’

Meanwhile, state officials, including Industries and Entrepreneurship Development Deputy Minister Chathuranga Abeysinghe, are implementing key economic structural reforms, a new tariff policy, and transparent investment criteria required by the bloc. Because formal accession protocols for RCEP are still being finalized, Sri Lanka is also simultaneously negotiating bilateral trade and investment agreements with regional members to accelerate integration.

Abeysinghe, participating virtually in the event said that Sri Lanka cannot achieve sustained export growth and attract large-scale investment by relying solely on its domestic market. ‘As a small economy, the country’s future lies in deeper integration with regional and global value chains. RCEP connects 15 economies, including Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, China and ASEAN member states, collectively accounting for nearly 30% of global trade, he explained.

Abeysinghe added: ‘Access to such a market would create new opportunities for Sri Lankan businesses, particularly the country’s Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), which currently contribute only around 10 percent to national exports.

‘However, Sri Lanka is at least a decade behind in implementing many of the reforms required to fully participate in modern global trade. Recognizing this challenge, the government is now moving forward with several critical reforms: A new tariff policy to improve competitiveness and eliminate barriers to trade, transparent and predictable investment criteria, investment facilitation reforms to improve the ease of doing business, new legislation including the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Act and SOE reforms to strengthen investor confidence and measures to improve investment protection and unlock new sources of capital, including venture capital and angel investment funds.

‘Sri Lanka’s exports currently stand at approximately US$ 17 billion and have grown only gradually over the years. Expanding market access through bilateral and multilateral agreements, while continuing domestic reforms, is essential if the country is to achieve its long-term economic ambitions.’

By Hiran H Senewiratne

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Pussalla Agri Ventures secures EU, USDA organic certs, paving way for high-value exports

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23 hours ago

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2026/06/16

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Roshan Ranawake, Managing Director of Control Union Sri Lanka, presents the certification to Philip J. Wewita, Chairman of Pussalla Agri Ventures (Pvt) Ltd, in the presence of Dr. Chamindi Jayasooriya, Director, and members of the Pussalla Agri Ventures team.

In a landmark development for Sri Lanka’s organic spice sector, Pussalla Agri Ventures has been awarded both EU Organic and USDA Organic certifications for its premium Ceylon cinnamon products. The certifications were officially conferred at Control Union Sri Lanka, signaling a major milestone in the company’s strategic transformation toward fully certified organic operations.

The recognition strengthens Pussalla Agri Ventures’ position as an emerging exporter of certified organic products, with its flagship offering, organic Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum, also known as Cinnamomum zeylanicum), cultivated in Sri Lanka’s traditional cinnamon-growing regions.

Notably, the dual certification opens doors to some of the world’s most lucrative and compliance-driven organic markets, including the European Union and the United States.

Pussalla Agri Ventures began its structured transition into organic cinnamon cultivation several years ago, building a fully integrated system covering cultivation, processing, and value addition. The company currently manages extensive cinnamon cultivation lands and operates under strict organic agricultural principles, ensuring compliance with global certification standards.

These certifications, issued through Control Union Sri Lanka, validate that the company’s farming and processing systems meet rigorous international requirements, including restrictions on synthetic chemicals, comprehensive traceability controls, and environmental sustainability practices. These certifications add to an existing portfolio that already includes SL GAP, Food GMP, and Cosmetic GMP certifications.

Company representatives described the achievement as a “milestone” in the Pussalla organic journey, one that paves the way for expanded access to premium export markets in Europe and the United States. According to them, the certifications are expected to enhance buyer confidence, particularly among health-conscious consumers and clean-label food brands.

Pussalla Agri Ventures emphasised that its organic cinnamon is sourced entirely from its own cultivated estates.

“This estate-to-exporter integration ensures full control over quality, traceability, and processing integrity. The company’s model allows cinnamon to be harvested, processed, and packed under continuously monitored conditions, maintaining strict alignment with international organic standards,” they noted.

Speaking further they said:

“Sri Lanka supplies the majority of the world’s True Ceylon Cinnamon, a spice prized for its delicate aroma, low coumarin levels, and reputed medicinal properties. The growing global demand for certified organic spices has created new opportunities for local producers who meet international compliance standards. Pussalla Agri Ventures’ certification achievement places it among a select group of Sri Lankan exporters adopting globally recognised organic systems, thereby enhancing the country’s reputation in high-value spice markets.”

“As organic food sales continue to rise in North America and Europe, certifications such as these are becoming essential rather than optional. For Pussalla Agri Ventures, the journey from conventional to certified organic is not merely a compliance exercise but a strategic repositioning aimed at long-term sustainability and premium pricing power.”

By Sanath Nanayakkare

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