Business
Dreamron in LMD’s Most Respected Entities in Sri Lanka for 2021

Dreamron, the largest exporter of cosmetics in Sri Lanka with a significant local presence, made its entry into “Sri Lanka’s Most Respected Entities” by LMD (Lanka Monthly Digest) in its special edition which was released in August, 2021. This remarkable recognition in Dreamron’s 20 year old journey of continuous progress is an endorsement for Dreamron’s value creation for the country in an industry that is dominated by the multinationals.
In line with Dreamron’s vision of becoming the most admired & respected local cosmetics manufacturer and marketer by meeting or exceeding expectations of all stakeholders with specific focus on fulfilling the quality demands of the consumer through an array of world class products which are locally manufactured fully complying and conforming to both global and local quality standards. It is Dreamron’s desire to be an aspirational catalyst to surface the beauty that runs skin deep to reveal the true worth in the overall personality of the beauty conscious consumer through 03 key brands namely Dreamron, Evon and Aurica. The portfolio of businesses under the Dreamron group also include; contract manufacturing for other local and MNC cosmetic brands and Beauty College to elevate the professional standards of the industry in addition to exports to over 27 countries at present with more promising opportunities in the pipe-line.
Commenting on the recognition, Dreamron Group Managing Director/CEO Dr. Kishu Gomes said: “At a time when our nation needs more and more local companies to expand their footprint locally and more importantly in the export markets, this accolade while being so significant for Dreamron, also a huge inspiration to other local manufactures in making a greater contribution to the country’s economic growth. We are delighted to be within the elite list of large conglomerates, high profile blue-chip companies and other industry leaders across multiple industries. This recognition will encourage us further grow the business in a sustainable manner to elevate the quality of life of all Sri Lankans”
Dr. Priyanka Perera, Chairman, a veteran in the field of cosmetics with international experience and exposure single handedly drove the organization from strength to strength over the past 20 years and it’s on a revolutionary transformation to be a much stronger business to more aggressively take on the multiplying challenges for the betterment of all stakeholders of the business.
Dreamron recently appointed, an iconic and multitalented personality in multiple disciplines – of course the core being beauty, former Miss Sri Lanka for Miss Universe Stephanie Siriwardhana to strengthen Dreamron’s brand equity in a more relevant way under the tag-line ‘’ A World Class You” – a tag-line probably only she can personify as a Sri Lankan with global admiration.
“Sri Lanka’s Most Respected Entities” listing and ranking is based on an annual survey commissioned and conceptualized by Lanka Monthly Digest (LMD) and conducted by Nielson, where a sample of 800 corporate respondents (managerial level and above) from listed companies,evaluate the perception of the organization based on 12 different attributes such as Vision, Quality Consciousness, Sustainability & CSR, Management Profile, Financial Performance, National Perspective, Honesty, Dynamism, Innovation, HR and People Management, Crisis Management and Corporate Culture.
Business
Seven Acts under the subject of institutions implemented under the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development to be amended

The Cabinet of Ministers has approved the joint proposal presented by the Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development to include the aforesaid amendments of the Acts to the Legal Compilation Program of the government in the year 2025 for the amendment of the following Acts.
• National Gem and Jewellery Authority Act, No. 50 of 1993.
• Technical Development Act No. 36 of 1969
• Sri Lanka institute of textile and apparel Act, no. 12 of 2009
• Sri Lanka Export. Development Act, No. 40 of 1979
• National Enterprise Development Authority Act No. 17 of 2006 and National Enterprise Development Authority Act No.18 of 2014 (Amendment)
• National Crafts Council and Allied Institutions Act No. 35 of 1982
• National Crafts Council and Allied Institutions Act No.4 of 1996 (Special Provisions)
[It has been planned to amend the above acts that come under the subject of institutions implemented under the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development this year to create a strong and suitable institutional framework to expedite economic conversion in Sri Lanka]
Business
‘A meeting of minds, markets and opportunities’

The Global Franchise Forum 2025, held at the Sheraton Hotel in Colombo recently was seen by dignitaries present as delivering significant benefits to Sri Lanka’s economy, entrepreneurs and the country’s global standing. Gaurav Marya, chairman, Franchise India Group, complimenting the event said, among other things, that the event was a ‘meeting of minds, markets and opportunities’.
The event attracted global brands, investors and business leaders, connecting them with Sri Lanka’s entrepreneurial community and was seen as laying the groundwork for long-term economic growth and collaboration.
Gaurav Marya, further said:
“We are thrilled to see such an enthusiastic and relevant audience in Sri Lanka. The energy in the room reflected the hunger for growth and the readiness of Sri Lanka’s entrepreneurs to embrace global brands and scale with purpose.”
Knowledgeable observers added: ‘Franchising offers a tested pathway for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to grow sustainably. Through partnerships with established global brands, Sri Lankan entrepreneurs now have better access to proven business models, reducing startup risks and improving scalability. This promises to generate significant employment opportunities in sectors like hospitality, healthcare, retail, and education, thereby strengthening the social and economic fabric of the country.
“The forum also helped reinforce Sri Lanka’s strategic position as a gateway to South Asia. Highlighting the country’s growing consumer base, skilled workforce and improving business environment, the event attracted international attention, signaling Sri Lanka’s readiness to play a larger role in regional trade and investment flows.
“Support from respected organizations—including the Indo-Lanka Chamber of Commerce, ICC Sri Lanka, and FCCISL—helped foster new partnerships and cross-border collaboration opportunities. By encouraging foreign investment and knowledge-sharing, the forum is set to help Sri Lankan businesses become more competitive regionally and globally.
“Panels, workshops, and one-on-one business meetings equipped attendees with vital knowledge about franchising strategies and global business practices. The presence of industry experts offered Sri Lankan entrepreneurs valuable tools for success, promoting a culture of innovation and strategic growth.”
Reflecting on the broader significance of the event, Gaurav Marya added,
“Sri Lanka is clearly moving toward economic recovery. Despite global headwinds, including recent trade policy shifts, the Global Franchise Forum 2025 Sri Lanka Edition has helped catalyze timely conversations and build sustainable partnerships that support long-term economic development and resilience.”
By Ifham Nizam
Business
National Savings Bank appoints Ajith Akmeemana,Chief Financial Officer

National Savings Bank (NSB) announces the appointment of Ajith Akmeemana as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), effective immediately.
Ajith Akmeemana has nearly 35 years of experience in the financial services industry driving financial strategies and ensuring sustainable organizational growth and profitability.
He brings extensive experience in corporate planning, asset-liability management, treasury management and corporate finance activities, complemented by C-suit leadership roles at Nations Trust Bank and Bank of Maldives. His career commenced at Standard Chartered Bank, Sri Lanka, and includes a strong foundation in audit and advisory services at Ernest & Young.
Akmeemana is a Fellow Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka and holds an MBA from the University of Manchester, UK. He is also a Graduate Member of the Sri Lanka Institute of Directors and an Associate Member of the Institute of Bankers of Sri Lanka.
Commenting on his appointment, Akmeemana said, “It is an honor to join National Savings Bank, an institution with a strong legacy and an essential role in Sri Lanka’s financial sector. I look forward to supporting NSB’s mission and contributing to its continued growth and success.”
The Chairman, Board of Directors, GM/CEO, and the entire NSB team warmly welcome Akmeemana and are confident in his ability to lead the Bank’s financial operations in alignment with its strategic direction.
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