Business
Attention on adulteration and counterfeit problems in Sri Lanka automotive lubricants and fluids market

All Island Service Station Owners Association urged to use proper supply chain links
by Sanath Nanayakkare
Totachi Industrial Co. Ltd, Japan and GS Lubricants, Sri Lanka recently conducted an informative and interactive seminar at Shangri La Colombo, where the members of the All Island Service Station Owners Association (AISSOA) gained important knowledge on automotive lubricants and fluids to ensure that they know their products inside out to serve their customers better.
With the title ‘Insights on automotive lubricants and fluids for sustainable business growth’, the event had brought hundreds of members of the AISSOA together to impart vital knowledge about the innovative products in their industry.
A comprehensive discussion took place at the event focused on adulteration problem in the Sri Lankan lubricants market, its adverse impact on the automobiles through which AISSOA members were educated on the issue.
They gained insights on the need for establishing proper supply chain links to not be duped by fake products for the wellbeing of their customers.
Totachi Industrial Co. Ltd., is a Japanese company reputed for manufacturing high quality lubricants including engine oils, gear oils, coolants & other automotive fluids together with filters, brake pads and related products. Totachi markets and sells these products in more than 50 countries including Sri Lanka.
In addition to spreading awareness on innovative products by Totachi, the event served as a platform for building new partnerships with the members of the AISSOA while strengthening the existing partnerships.
The participants were educated on the certifications and specifications of the lubricant industry by showcasing the uniqueness of Totachi Lubricants and its products.
During the welcome speech the purpose of the event was explained by Priyantha Perera, CEO – GS Lubricants Limited.
The keynote speech was delivered by Pawara Dasanayake, President of the Association and he appreciated the efforts of Totachi company for bringing government regulating bodies to educate the members of the association on legislation procedures and future challenges of the industry.
Guest speaker, Thanuj Wijesooriya (Deputy Director) Public Utility Commission spoke on the importance of using lubricants which are manufactured to the highest certification of API and its benefits to the car owner as well as the impact to the environment.
The next guest speaker, Samantha Karunaratne, Director Competition Promotion Consumer Affairs Authority educated the audience on the fake and grey products in the market as well as the initiatives being taken to reduce and control such malpractices.
Evangelin Ramos- Product Manager, Totachi Industrial Ltd. Japan made a special presentation showcasing the Totachi product range and its highest standards in manufacturing which helped broaden the product awareness among the audience.
The panel discussion which followed comprised: Thanuj Wijesooriya, Chelaka Herath, Pawara Dasanayaka, Nishantha Amerasinghe , Association President & Secretary, Sunil Weththasinghe, Chairman – GS Lubricants, Priyantha Perera, CEO – GS Lubricants and Evangelin Ramos, Product Manager – Totachi Industrial Ltd.Japan.
The panelists provided substantial information on lubricant industry specifications such as API/ILSAC/ACEA & JASO etc. and showcased the uniqueness of Totachi engine oils, gear oils, coolants and other special Fluids.
The panelists familiarized all service station owners about the standards the lubricant industry will need to adapt in the future, showcasing ongoing R&D activities and new standards that will be set by certification bodies in the near future.
They illustrated how Totachi Lubricants have adopted all the state-of-the-art innovations with the best practices of the industry and the highest standards they have used in the production process.
Totachi Industrial Co. Ltd was founded in 1998 by a group of chemical engineers in Hokkaido, Japan, which has a rich history rooted in Japanese tradition, craftsmanship and ingenuity.
Bringing together a wealth of industry experience in the automotive, marine and industrial lubricant sectors, Totachi has been constantly committed to pushing boundaries and setting new standards of quality in their products.
Totachi boasts state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities strategically located around the world in eight countries. These facilities adhere to the highest standards of production, ensuring that every drop of Totachi lubricant meets exact specifications adhering to all International lubricant standard approvals such as API (American Petroleum Institute), ILSAC (International Lubricants Standardization and Approval Committee),ACEA (The European Automobile Manufacturers' Association), JASO (Japanese Automotive Standards Organization) and distribution in over 50 countries including Sri Lanka.
By partnering with Totachi, service station owners can offer superior products and services to their valued customers. Through this strategic partnership with AISSOA, Totachi is forging a path towards a brighter future together with its partners.GS Lubricants is the exclusive distributor of Totachi products in Sri Lanka.
Business
ComBank unveils new Corporate Branch at Head Office

The Commercial Bank of Ceylon has transformed its iconic ‘Foreign Branch’ into the ‘Corporate Branch,’ reaffirming its commitment to delivering dedicated, comprehensive financial solutions to corporate and trade customers.
The Bank said this transformation represents a new milestone in its illustrious journey, and resonates with the rich commercial heritage of Colombo, a city that has long served as a vital trading hub in the region.
Strategically located at the Bank’s Head Office at Commercial House, 21, Sir Razeek Fareed Mawatha (Bristol Street), Colombo 1, this rebranded Corporate Branch stands as a first of its kind in Sri Lanka —a premier financial hub tailored exclusively to the needs of corporate customers, the Bank said. The transformation aligns with the Bank’s vision of providing unparalleled service excellence, bespoke financial solutions, and fostering long-term business partnerships.
Commenting on this strategic initiative, Commercial Bank’s Managing Director/CEO Sanath Manatunge stated: “It is our aspiration that just as the historic Delft Gateway, at which our Head Office is located, once opened the path to the Dutch Fort, our Corporate Branch will chart a new era of enduring and prosperous business collaborations, that will extend beyond Sri Lanka’s shores.”
Business
Fits Retail and Abans PLC Unveil Exclusive DeLonghi Premium Coffee Experience

Fits Retail has partnered with retail giant Abans PLC to showcase the iconic DeLonghi coffee machines at two of Colombo’s most prestigious locations: Abans Elite Colombo 3 and Abans Havelock City Mall showrooms.
At these dedicated demonstration zones, visitors can discover the unparalleled precision engineering and user-friendly technology that have made DeLonghi machines the preferred choice for discerning coffee lovers in more than 46 countries worldwide. Renowned for consistently delivering café-quality espresso, cappuccino, and even specialty cold brews, DeLonghi machines exemplify Italian innovation at its finest.
Yasas Kodituwakku, CEO of Fits Retail, expressed excitement about the collaboration: “This partnership represents our unwavering commitment to bringing global coffee excellence to Sri Lankan connoisseurs. With Abans PLC, we’re creating more than just demonstration spaces; we’re curating premium destinations for an authentic coffee experience.”
“As pioneers of premium lifestyle experiences in Sri Lanka, our collaboration with Fits Retail aligns seamlessly with our vision of elevating everyday moments into exceptional experiences,” said Tanaz Pestonjee, Director Business Development at Abans PLC.
Business
Members’ Night of the Sri Lanka – Russia Business Council of The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce

The Sri Lanka-Russia Business Council (SLRBC) of The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce (CCC) hosted a Members’ Night on March 27, at the Sophia Colombo City Hotel. The event, attended by His Excellency Levan S. Dzhagaryan, Ambassador of Russia to Sri Lanka, offered a valuable platform for business leaders, embassy officials, and Members to discuss and explore opportunities for deeper Sri Lanka-Russia collaboration, a CCC news release said.
SLRBC President, Mr. Jude Fernando, kicked off the evening with a speech highlighting the importance of strengthening international ties, which was followed by H.E. Dzhagaryan’s address on the need for continued engagement between the two countries. The event featured networking opportunities, allowing Members to connect with key stakeholders and discuss future business ventures, followed by a delightful dinner.
The event was made possible with the generous support of sponsors, including OCEAN 7 Logistics (Pvt) Ltd, Bally/Walkers Tours, Fibre cement associations, Ceylon Fresh Teas, SCANWELL Logistics, Regency Teas, Shan Teas, and others, whose contributions were key to its success.
The SLRBC is committed to further facilitating trade and cultural exchange between Sri Lanka and Russia, continuing to foster stronger business relationships.
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