Business
Germany supports Sri Lanka to increase its export capacities of organic products to the EU
The Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Sri Lanka (AHK Sri Lanka), in collaboration with the German Agency of International Development Cooperation (GIZ), conducted a seminar with an integrated press conference in Kandy on 29th November 2021 to raise awareness among potential exporters and industry representatives to increase export capacities of organic products to the EU.
The event was held in the presence of Andreas Hergenroether, Chief Delegate – Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Sri Lanka, Mr. H. M. R. Bandara – Provincial Director, Department of Agriculture, Ms. Shalindri Perera, Change Agent – GIZ and 15+ exporters of organic products in the central province. Sri Lankan exporters in the organic sector were briefed on the procedure of exporting organic products from Sri Lanka to the EU and support mechanisms such as matchmaking support and the ‘develoPPP.de program’ of the German Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). The initiative is co-funded by the European Union and the German Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).
Andreas Hergenröther, Chief Delegate of Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Sri Lanka, stated: “The European Union (EU) is by far the fastest-growing organic market worldwide. We are convinced that Sri Lankan organic exporters could become strategic suppliers”. He highlighted that the global market for organic food reached EURO 106 billion in 2019. Retail sales in the European Union (EU) were valued at EURO 41.4 billion. As the largest organic retail sales market in the EU, Germany accounted for EURO 11.97 billion in 2019. Major Sri Lankan organic products exported to the EU include cinnamon, coconut-based products, organic tea, tropical fruits such as papaya, pineapple, banana, and vegetables such as potato, carrots, leeks, and legumes.
Ms. Shalindri Perera, Change Agent, from GIZ introduced the develoPPP.de Program to the organic-sector exporters and discussed the criteria required to embark on a develoPPP.de programme together with the GIZ SME Sector Development Program in Sri Lanka. The required criteria included being a for-profit business, making a 50% contribution to the project, and a minimum annual turnover. Private companies engaged in the organic sector, with project ideas with a clear community/social impact were encouraged to apply for the developpp.de Program.
During the event, AHK Sri Lanka the official representative of German business in Sri Lanka presented information on key topics concerning the EU legislations for organic farming, technical regulations and controls, certifications, standards, packaging, labelling, logistics, risk management, and other requirements of the European consumer.
Moreover, Ms. Udani Mendis representing Bio Food Pvt Ltd a leading Sri Lankan organic products exporter explained the importance of certification & their success story in the EU market. Ashoka Abeywickrama, former CEO of Chamber of Commerce and Industries of Central province expounded on the prospects of organic farming in central province.
AHK Sri Lanka is part of the German Chamber Network supported by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi). With 142 locations in 92 countries around the world, the members of the German Chamber Network (AHKs) offer their experience, connections, and services – including coordination and certification of industry-driven vocational training – to German and companies of the respective partner countries.
The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH has been working in Sri Lanka since 1956. On behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and the Federal Foreign Office, GIZ is working on topics such as support for the reconciliation process, private sector development and education and vocational training.
Business
Constituent Change in the S&P Sri Lanka 20 Index
The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) announces the following change in S&P Sri Lanka 20 index constituents made by S&P Dow Jones Indices at the 2026 Mid-Year rebalance.
The exclusion and inclusion as announced by S&P Dow Jones Indices, effective from 22nd June 2026 (after the market close of 19th June 2026) are presented below.
The S&P SL 20 index includes the 20 largest companies, by total market capitalization, listed on the CSE that meet minimum size, liquidity and financial viability thresholds. The constituents are weighted by float-adjusted market capitalization, subject to a single stock cap of 15%, which is employed to reduce single stock concentration.
The S&P SL 20 index has been designed in accordance with international practices and standards. All stocks are classified according to the Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS®), which was co-developed by S&P Dow Jones Indices and MCSI and is widely used by market participants throughout the world.
To be eligible for inclusion, a stock must have a minimum float-adjusted market capitalization of 500 million Sri Lankan rupees (Rs), a six-month median daily value traded of Rs 0.25 million and have positive net income over the 12 months prior to the rebalancing reference date. For information, including the complete methodology, please visit: www.spindices.com
Effective from 22nd June 2026 the stocks in the S&P Sri Lanka 20 in alphabetical order are as above.
Business
Teejay Group navigates industry headwinds with financial strength and strategic focus
The Teejay Group recorded revenue of LKR 60.04 billion during the period, reflecting a 10% year-on-year decline, primarily due to continued softness in global textile demand. This performance was largely impacted by reciprocal tariffs imposed by the United States, intensified pricing pressures across key markets, and the resulting decline in volumes, all of which collectively weighed on topline growth.
Group Gross Profit declined by 36% year-on-year to LKR 5.02 billion, mainly attributable to lower production volumes, underutilization of plant capacity, sustained pricing pressures, and an unfavorable product mix. Together, these factors adversely affected margin performance amid a challenging operating environment.
The Group reported a Profit After Tax (PAT) of LKR 54.7 million, representing a 98% year-on-year decline. This was primarily driven by higher rupee-denominated costs and non-recurring items, provision for doubtful debts, and restructuring costs associated with right-sizing initiatives.
Ajit Gunewardene, Chairman of the Teejay Group said, “The year was marked by persistent global demand softness and pricing pressures, which impacted results. Despite this, we focused on operational efficiency, cost discipline, and strengthening our financial resilience. These actions position the Group to navigate ongoing uncertainty while remaining committed to long-term value creation for our shareholders.”
Despite these near-term challenges, the Teejay Group continues to maintain a strong financial position, supported by disciplined working capital management and a robust liquidity base. As at 31 March 2026, cash and cash equivalents stood at LKR 8.3 billion, while the Group’s net asset base increased by 3% year-on-year to LKR 32.4 billion, reinforcing the resilience of its balance sheet.
Business
Fairfirst celebrates 7 years of supporting the Sri Lanka Police K9 Unit
Fairfirst Insurance has once again partnered with the Sri Lanka Police K9 Unit, continuing its support for the seventh consecutive year. This partnership reflects the company’s long-standing commitment to giving back to the community.
Through this initiative, Fairfirst will provide comprehensive insurance coverage for the highly trained canines attached to the Sri Lanka Police K9 Unit. These dogs play a critical role in supporting police operations across the country, assisting with crime detection, narcotics investigations, search and rescue missions, and public safety efforts.
As a company that believes business should create a meaningful impact beyond insurance, Fairfirst remains committed to initiatives that support communities and recognise the vital contributions of those who help keep society safe. This shared commitment to protection and responsibility continues to drive the company’s long-standing partnership with the Sri Lanka Police K9 Unit.
Commenting on the continued partnership, Ravishankar Wickneswaran, CEO of Fairfirst Insurance, said, “It is a privilege for us to continue supporting the Sri Lanka Police K9 Unit for the seventh consecutive year. These dogs serve the country with incredible discipline and loyalty, often in challenging situations. Supporting their wellbeing is one small way for us to give back, and it reflects the FairfirstWay of standing by those who protect and serve our communities every day.”
Fairfirst looks forward to continuing this partnership and contributing to the wellbeing of the Sri Lanka Police K9 Unit in the years ahead.
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