Business
Sri Lankan hair extension specialist benefits from export order surge
Says SL should be part of the billion-dollar industry
By Sanath Nanayakkare
One may often hear panelists at business forums waxing eloquent about domestic value additions to imported raw materials for re-export and earning valuable foreign exchange for the country.
But one would rarely hear about a self-made Sri Lankan woman entrepreneur who is slowly but steadily attracting global attention towards Sri Lanka — for transforming imported human hair supply into stylish hair solutions for women — who face loss of hair and suffer from low esteem.
The Island Financial Review recently had an interview with the presidential award-winning hair extension specialist, Dr. Kaveesha Bethmage who is the owner /CEO of Salon Kaveesha International (Pvt) Ltd in Dematagoda where 30-hair extension artisans are employed.
“No matter which country we are from and what our differences may be, we all have a strong view of hair. Hair is a subject that is very important to women and their self-esteem. We often see our hair as a reflection of our identity because it is both personal and public. The positive or negative view of hair can greatly affect a woman. Hair, its length, texture and colour, all affect how a person looks and how they will be perceived. Lack of hair is not only directly associated with the appearance of a woman, but it also can significantly contribute to a loss of confidence resulting in many other negative personal implications. This is especially important for women with medical conditions that result in receding hairline. Needless to say more, hair is one of the assets for women”, says Kaveesha.
“Salon Kaveesha’s hair extensions are a quick fix for length and volume. Our products make our clients feel more confident as they blend with their own hair. This is always custom work, and my team is well-trained to adapt the extensions to the client’s hair structure, texture, colour and style preferences”, she says.
Delving into the pig picture of the industry she says,” Only a very few people know that the hair extension industry is more or less like the jewellery industry because the raw materials of both industries are valuable and hard to find. However, there is a distinct difference between the two supplies. A woman with the right volume of hair can look stunning without any jewellery. But the other way round is never true. This is why the hair extension industry is a billion-dollar industry in the world.
Sri Lanka can claim a sizable market share in this industry as many foreigners wouldn’t mind travelling to Sri Lanka to get this service and enjoy a short stay here,” “We already have a lot of expats coming to get our products and services. Our newly launched website has paved the way for us to receive an increasing number of orders from the USA, Canada, UK, Italy, Germany, Australia, the Middle East etc. Our AI-driven online platform enables virtual hair extension try-on for potential clients. So, they can see themselves virtually with their preferred hair extensions and place their orders. Usually, the lead time for delivery of an export order is about two weeks, and the prices vary according to the type and style of the chosen extension,” Kaveesha says.
“We have a range of hair extensions for those who can visit Sri Lanka as well as who can’t physically be here, but love to use our products after virtually experiencing it. I am glad that we have seen an increase in the number of online orders since we started exporting in 2020, on a small scale during covid-19 pandemic. The salon was founded in 2003, and our hard work has paid off with our export footprint. I think it’s high time we expanded our business to make it more industrial and globally competitive, and be more visible to the global audiences,” she says.
Kaveesha’s local clientele comprises celebrities, professionals, businesspeople, academics, politicians among other clients.
“Now we want to sell our hair products to the entire world. With this objective in mind, I am planning to establish a new hair products factory including the salon near the Katunayake International Airport to provide easy access to my clients. Then they can have their desired hair extensions within minutes of leaving the arrivals terminal. I know from experience that is how fast they want this critical service.” she says.
According to her, the new eco-friendly facility will cost about Rs. 45 million and it will create at least 60 jobs for industry veterans and novices.
“Our vision is to take Salon Kaveesha to international prominence as a leading provider in the hair and beauty industry. I am confident that the banks I deal with, will support me in financing the new project given the establishment’s proven track record, and my industry experience of more than 20 years.” she says.
Kaveesha points out that one challenge for her business is getting the right equipment and accessories for her trade.
“Hair extensions, hair-to-hair transplants and making innovative hair products from finest human hair is a specialized trade. But we can hardly find the sophisticated tools in Sri Lanka for it. We have to go abroad from time to time to purchase them,” she says.
Buddini Jayanika, manager at Salon Kaveesha said that they have donated many hair wigs to women in marginalized groups who faced hair-loss due to medical conditions and couldn’t afford to buy one. She also mentioned that her CEO believes in giving back to society, and therefore, Salon Kaveesha supports several CSR activities.
The embellishment annually donates hair extensions to cancer patients and underprivileged individuals to boost their confidence and self-esteem. It also provides stationery to students of disabled army soldiers every year to support their education.
Kaveesha’s husband, Lasantha Bethmage is an investor cum director of the establishment.
In line with the new government’s policy of “A Thriving Nation- A Beautiful Life,” President Anura Kumara Disanayake directed officials to take the necessary steps to increase export revenue to $36 billion by 2030.
The President expressed these views during the meeting of the Export Development Council of Ministers (EDCM), held on Monday (27) at the Presidential Secretariat.
Export revenue, which stood at USD 16.1 billion in 2024, is expected to rise to USD 18.2 billion this year, with a long-term goal of reaching USD 36 billion by 2030 through a comprehensive action plan.
The discussions emphasized the importance of strengthening domestic production and transitioning to an export-driven economy. Participants also highlighted the need to leverage Sri Lanka’s strategic location, human resources, and natural assets to develop a sustainable industrial growth plan.
This focused on revitalizing struggling domestic manufacturing industries, enhancing the competitiveness of export sectors, promoting the services industry, and capturing global markets through innovative strategies. Additionally, attention was drawn to attracting Foreign Direct Investment under a national framework, creating a conducive environment for new investments, reducing production costs, and ensuring the availability of essential infrastructure and resources.
Key decisions and discussions at the meeting included:
A decision was made to establish a VAT refund system at the airport for goods purchased by tourists.
To address delays and inefficiencies in the inspection of export products, plans have been made to replace the manual system with an automated scanning system that complies with international standards. This system will be installed at the Katunayake airport, with funding allocated by the Ministry of Industries.
It was also decided to permit the “inspection of railway engines” manufactured in Sri Lanka, which had previously posed a barrier to exports, to be conducted within the country.
It was decided to introduce renewable energy sources to reduce costs within the export industry and to launch a program to encourage exporters to adopt modern technology, enhancing cost efficiency while conserving electricity.
It was decided to provide funding from the CESS fund to implement programs focused on entrepreneurs and investors to achieve export targets.
Investment Facilitation Committee was established to facilitate investment in the export sector by providing investment support for both domestic and foreign investments.
It was decided to provide export incentives for the export of gems and jewellery by identifying the correct export value through an appropriate method.
The government has focused on the export of electronic equipment and devices manufactured locally, and discussions were held regarding providing customs duty concessions on raw material imports for this purpose.
Special attention was given to the digitalization of data systems related to the export industry in the implementation of the above decisions.
There was also a focus on increasing the bank guarantee limits for incentivizing service exports.
The meeting also addressed challenges currently facing the export sector and potential solutions. Issues related to the inspection of apparel exports were highlighted, and resolutions were formulated with the consensus of all stakeholders.
The EDMC, established on September 11, 1980, has met sporadically over the years. However, it had not convened between 1992 and 2020, and even in 2020, no significant decisions were implemented. This meeting in 2025 marks the resumption of the committee’s activities after a gap of 28 years, making it a notable milestone.
The committee comprises representatives from various ministries, including Trade, Shipping, Plantations, Agriculture, Industry, Textiles, Fisheries, Finance, Foreign Affairs, Supply Chain, and Rural Development. Its primary objective is to enhance Sri Lanka’s global competitiveness by formulating and implementing national export development policies and programs.
Notable attendees at the meeting included Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Sunil Handunnetti, Minister of Transport, Highways, Ports, and Civil Aviation Bimal Rathnayake, Minister of Plantation and Community Infrastructure Samantha Vidyarathne, Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Co-operative Development Wasantha Samarasinghe, Minister of Rural Development, Social Security, and Community Empowerment Dr. Upali Pannilage, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) Mangala Wijesinghe, Secretaries of relevant ministries and a group of state officials.
By Ifham Nizam
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is not just an emerging field; it is central to shaping the future, said Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology (SLIIT) Chancellor Professor Lakshman Ratnayake.
He added: “This initiative addresses Sri Lanka’s need for a skilled, job-ready workforce, while also positioning the nation as a hub for innovation in South Asia.”
In a historic milestone for higher education in Sri Lanka, SLIIT and Deakin University, Australia, have joined forces to introduce the nation’s first Australian Bachelor’s Degree in AI.
This groundbreaking program enables Sri Lankan students to complete Deakin University’s globally acclaimed AI degree entirely within Sri Lanka, marking a new chapter in the two-decade-long partnership between the institutions.
The official launch which took place last Thursday at the NH Collection, was attended by key figures, including Australian High Commissioner Paul Stephens, Pro Professor Bas Baskaran from Deakin University and Professor Lakshman Ratnayake, Chancellor of SLIIT. The event celebrated the innovative collaboration aimed at delivering world-class education tailored to the growing demand for AI expertise in Sri Lanka and the South Asian region.
The three-year program offers a comprehensive curriculum combining SLIIT’s local expertise with the academic excellence of visiting Deakin faculty. Students will gain in-depth knowledge in AI, machine learning, data science, robotics, and ethical AI, ensuring a strong foundation in both theory and practical application. Designed with industry input, the program equips graduates with the skills needed to thrive in the rapidly evolving technology sector.
What makes this initiative particularly appealing is its flexibility. Students have the option to transfer and complete any part of their degree in Australia, providing a seamless international education experience. Additionally, merit-based scholarships covering up to 25% of tuition fees are available for high-achieving students, making quality education more accessible.
Speaking at the event, Australian High Commissioner Paul Stephens highlighted the growing Australia-Sri Lanka education partnership, noting its vital role in strengthening bilateral relations. “With over 30 bilateral partnerships and more than 18,000 Sri Lankans currently studying in Australia, this collaboration underscores the enduring value of our educational ties. This AI degree program is a significant step forward, reflecting our shared commitment to fostering innovation and addressing global challenges.”
Professor Bas Baskaran, Pro Vice Chancellor of Deakin University, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the program’s transformative potential. “This isn’t just another degree. It’s a gateway to the future, designed to shape leaders in one of the most critical fields of our time. Our partnership with SLIIT has always been about delivering excellence, and this initiative takes our collaboration to new heights.”
He said that with a focus on hands-on learning and industry-focused projects, the program ensures students are prepared to tackle real-world challenges. Collaborative projects with peers in Australia further enhance the international scope of the program, providing a truly global perspective.
As Sri Lanka continues to embrace technology and innovation, the launch of this AI degree represents a critical step toward building a future-ready workforce. Prof. Lalith Gamage, Vice Chancellor of SLIIT, remarked, “This program is more than just an academic milestone; it’s a testament to what we can achieve through collaboration. By fostering AI expertise, we are not only shaping the future of our students but also contributing to the growth and resilience of Sri Lanka’s economy.”
Aitken Spence Travels recently opened its doors in Jaffna, marking a significant milestone in its efforts to expand its outbound travel services and bring world-class travel solutions to the people of north. As a leading travel agent and being one of the oldest IATA agencies (International Air Transport Association) in the country, the company is delighted to expand its operations covering Jaffna.
The opening of the new branch was graced by the presence of the senior management of Aitken Spence Travels, alongside an esteemed gathering of distinguished invitees. Among the attendees were prominent business leaders, influential community representatives, and respected local dignitaries from Jaffna.
The Jaffna branch is conveniently located at No. 10A, Point Pedro Road, Jaffna, providing a central and easily accessible location for anyone seeking world-class travel services. The office will be dedicated for any travel related services including air tickets, overseas hotel bookings and excursions, visa services, pilgrim tours, sports tours, musical tours or MICE services (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions). Be it a business or leisure trip experts of Aitken Spence Travels are ready to serve the increasing demands of the Jaffna market.
“Aitken Spence Travels aspires to cater to the growing inbound clientele from India, becoming a bridge that opens doors to the wonders Sri Lanka has to offer. This new branch reflects our dedication to making international travel more accessible across the island while delivering the exceptional service and expertise that Aitken Spence Travels is renowned for”, commented, Stasshani Jayawardena, Joint Deputy Chairperson and Joint Managing Director of Aitken Spence PLC and Head of the Group’s Tourism Sector.
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