Business
CCC launches online market place to promote exports amid growing demand
The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce with a view to support companies to promote exports from Sri Lanka, entered into a partnership agreement to integrate an “Online Market Place”, developed by Epic Lanka Technologies (Pvt) Ltd. The platform will be integrated to Chamber’s e-commerce portal https://bizinfosrilanka.lk
During the signing ceremony held on August 7, Manjula de Silva, Chief Executive Officer of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, emphasised that with the introduction of this initiative, priority will be given to promote organisations manufacturing sustainable products that would in return provide environmental, social and economic benefits. “As our global economy grows, it is critical that local businesses can compete in this marketplace. The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce is looking forward to bring solutions forward that expand opportunities for businesses to participate in the global economy,” said Manjula de Silva, CCC / CEO.
“By choosing Doxpro Shopex online marketplace model, the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce is truly distinguishing itself and Epic Lanka Technologies is honoured to be working alongside them on this journey,” said Thareendra Kalpage, CEO, Epic Lanka Technologies. “By fully utilizing the capabilities of the Doxpro Shopex Marketplace Platform, CCC is set up for marketplace success.”
According to figures collected by the International Trade Centre (ITC) – Geneva from EU countries such as France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands and Spain, it was found that sustainable product sourcing has become a top priority for retailers in these key European Union markets. The emphasis on environmentally-friendly products, fair and ethical trade, and decent jobs in supplier companies have strong consumer support and it is expected that such businesses will increase significantly in the next five years.
In addition, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and women entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka will also be encouraged to register with the Online Market Place to promote their products to Exporters as partners of the value chain. The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce recently established a Centre for SMEs in a bid to play a more active role in building this dynamic sector of the economy.
Local exporters will be able to source products required through the proposed online system and the Chamber will work closely with the Regional Chambers of Commerce and Product Trade Associations to attract suppliers from various parts of the country. The platform is expected to be launched in October 2020.
Product details uploaded to the Online Market Place will be promoted via social media in addition to the Sri Lankan Diplomatic Missions based overseas, Foreign Diplomatic Missions in Sri Lanka and across 130 Overseas Trade Promotion Organisations.
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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