Business
Foreign trade is not just about importing and exporting goods, says German Delegation in Sri Lanka
Foreign trade is not just about importing and exporting goods; it’s about building long-lasting partnerships, opening markets, and engaging in a global dialogue, Marie Antonia von Schönburg, Chief Delegate of the Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Sri Lanka said in Colombo Last week.She said so while speaking at the Global CEO Forum Sri Lanka held at Galadari Colombo, on 21st of September 2023.
“As we navigate the intricate web of international relations, economic challenges, and geopolitical uncertainties, it becomes increasingly evident that strong and visionary leadership is vital to ensure the prosperity and stability of our nations”, she said.
Speaking further she noted: “Turbulent times are not a new phenomenon. History has witnessed countless crises, conflicts, and economic upheavals. Yet, the challenges we face today are uniquely complex due to our interconnected global economy and the rapid pace of technological advancement. In such times, only leaders who understand the intricacies of foreign trade will make a significant impact.”
“First and foremost, leaders must recognize the crucial role that foreign trade plays in our economies. In today’s world, no nation can prosper in isolation. Trade is the lifeblood of modern economies, fueling growth, creating jobs, and stimulating innovation. Foreign trade is not just about importing and exporting goods; it’s about building long-lasting partnerships, opening markets, and engaging in a global dialogue.”
“However, foreign trade is not without its challenges, and more so in turbulent times. Trade tensions, protectionist policies, and geopolitical conflicts can disrupt the flow of goods and capital. To lead effectively in such an environment, leaders must show a deep understanding of these dynamics and the ability to navigate them skillfully. As a starter, leaders must be ethical and responsible. These attributes serve as the foundation of trust and credibility on the global stage. Ethical leadership involves upholding moral principles, especially when faced with challenging decisions.”
“Responsible leaders understand that their choices impact the well-being of both present and future generations. In a VUCA environment (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity) adaptability is the key. Turbulent times demand never-changing flexibility in response to ever-changing circumstances. Leaders must be ready to pivot and adjust their trade strategies in the face of constantly evolving challenges. This means having the foresight to anticipate disruptions and the agility to respond swiftly.”
“Promoting transparency and fairness is another critical aspect in foreign trade. Resorting to protectionism or engaging in unfair trade practices have long-lasting negative consequences. True leadership means upholding the principles of free and fair trade, ensuring a level playing field for everyone, and working towards a rules-based international trading system.”
“A highly skilled and adaptable workforce is a key requirement to be competitive in the global marketplace. Likewise, modern infrastructure is essential for the efficient movement of goods and services. When leaders prioritize these investments, they not only stimulate economic growth but also enhance their nation’s ability to compete on the world stage.”
“Moreover, leaders should harness the power of technology to facilitate trade. E-commerce, digital platforms, and data analytics are revolutionizing the way we conduct international business. Forward-thinking leaders must embrace these innovations and create an environment that fosters digital trade and cross-border cooperation.”
“In turbulent times, leaders must not forget about the environmental and social dimensions of foreign trade. Climate change and social inequalities are global challenges that cannot be ignored. Forward-looking leaders need to align their trade policies with sustainability goals, promoting responsible production and consumption patterns while addressing social injustices. A growing demand of consumers and investors to be socially and environmentally responsible is making this a strategic imperative.”
“Effective leadership in foreign trade requires collaboration and partnership on a global scale. No nation can address the challenges of our time by themselves. Leaders must actively engage in international forums – like Global CEO Forum -, support multilateral organizations, and work towards global solutions. By doing so, they strengthen their nation’s position and contribute to a more stable and prosperous world.”
“Leadership in turbulent times, especially from a foreign trade perspective, demands a unique set of skills and attributes. It requires responsibility, adaptability, transparency, and a commitment to fairness. It calls for investments in human capital and infrastructure, the embrace of technology, and a keen awareness of environmental and social concerns. Most importantly, it requires a global mindset that recognizes the interconnectedness of our world.”
“In the realm of foreign trade, our leaders have a profound responsibility to navigate us through turbulent waters, ensuring that our nations continue to thrive and that our world becomes a more prosperous and harmonious place for all,” she said.
Senior business leaders, economists and international development experts, alongside the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, will headline the Sri Lanka Economic & Investment Summit 2026, organised by The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce on 12 and 13 October at the Shangri-La Colombo.
The Summit will open with a keynote address by T. Krishnakumar, Chief Executive Officer, Reliance Consumer Products Ltd, who brings more than four decades of experience in the consumer brands and FMCG sectors. Having previously served as President of Coca-Cola India and Southwest Asia, with extensive experience in building businesses and driving growth across emerging markets, Krishnakumar, more popularly known as Kk, now leads Reliance Consumer Products as it expands across categories and builds new customer, partnership and market opportunities.
Day 2 will bring together four international perspectives across discussions on economic resilience, regional connectivity, sector growth and digital transformation.
Lilia Aleksanyan, Senior Country Economist for Sri Lanka at the Asian Development Bank, will open the day’s discussions with a focus on Sri Lanka’s economic resilience. Her work covers the country’s macroeconomic outlook, policy advice and macro-fiscal and financial-sector reform. Her international policy experience also includes roles at the French Ministry of Finance and the French Central Bank.
The Summit will then turn to Sri Lanka’s connections with regional markets, with P. D. Singh, Chief Executive Officer, India & South Asia, Standard Chartered Bank, delivering the keynote for the session on trade corridors and value chains. Singh counts close to three decades of experience in banking and finance, with senior leadership roles spanning Standard Chartered, JPMorgan Chase Bank and HSBC.
The Sector Deep Dives will bring international perspectives to discussions on healthcare and energy.
Tushar Shroff, Chief Financial Officer, Zydus Lifesciences Ltd, will deliver the keynote for the healthcare discussion, drawing on more than three decades of experience in corporate finance, strategic investment and financial transformation. His career spans senior finance and leadership roles with ABB, Piramal Healthcare, Intas Pharmaceuticals and Vedanta Group, giving him a broad perspective on the business and investment decisions shaping the healthcare sector.
For the energy-focused deep dive, Edore Onomakpome, Regional Infrastructure Industry Manager for Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Nepal at the International Finance Corporation, will bring extensive experience in infrastructure investment and project finance across emerging markets. Since joining IFC in 2013, she has held senior roles across Africa and South Asia, including managing IFC’s infrastructure portfolio across 16 countries.
The Summit will conclude its keynote programme with Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, who will deliver the keynote for “Nation Building in the Digital Age.” The Prime Minister also oversees the Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education, bringing a direct policy perspective to discussions on digital transformation, innovation, education and the skills needed for a changing economy.
Together, these perspectives will bring regional, international and policy insight to SLEIS 2026 as Sri Lanka considers how to strengthen economic resilience, attract investment, deepen regional connections and develop new sources of growth.
Held under the theme “Positioning Sri Lanka in a Changing Global Economy: Resilience, Reform, and the Future of Economic Policy,” SLEIS 2026 will take place on 12 and 13 October 2026 at the Shangri-La Colombo.
The Sri Lanka Economic & Investment Summit 2026 is supported by its valued sponsors and partners. Platinum Sponsor – Standard Chartered Bank Sri Lanka, Gold Sponsor – VISA Worldwide (Pvt) Ltd., Bronze Sponsor – South Asia Gateway Terminals (Pvt) Ltd., Strategic Development Partner – Asian Development Bank, Telecommunication Partner – Dialog Telecommunication, Television Partner – Dialog Television, Session Sponsors – David Pieris Motor Company (Pvt) Ltd., Hemas Holdings PLC, Sunshine Holdings PLC, International Construction Consortium (Pvt) Ltd., Microsoft Sri Lanka (Pvt) Limited, Official Logistics Partner – Hayleys Advantis Limited, Official Airline – SriLankan Airlines Ltd., Official Hospitality Partner – Shangri-La Colombo, Airline Partner – China Eastern Air Holding Co. Ltd.
Registrations for SLEIS 2026 are now closed. The Ceylon Chamber looks forward to welcoming participants to the discussions on Sri Lanka’s future trajectory on 12 and 13 October.
Commercial Bank of Ceylon has launched ‘Prestige’, a three-tier banking proposition aimed at high-net-worth (HNW) clients, combining wealth management, advisory services and lifestyle benefits.
The initiative replaces the bank’s existing ‘Elite’ private banking brand with Ruby, Sapphire and Diamond tiers, designed to cater to customers according to their wealth profiles and banking relationships.
The bank said Prestige would provide dedicated relationship managers, priority branch services, preferential rates on loans and deposits, enhanced card privileges, family banking programmes and offshore account solutions.
Its wealth and investment management services include access to capital-protected income solutions, dual-currency investments, institutional deals and estate and portfolio governance.
Clients will also have access to specialist financial and corporate advisory services, including assistance with international relocation, overseas property and capital repatriation.
The programme includes lifestyle benefits such as VIP airport lounge access, travel concierge services, property management and medical coordination, as well as access to selected art and culinary events.
The bank said its flagship Prestige banking residence at R.G. Senanayake Mawatha, Colombo 07, had been refurbished, with the service to be extended to other economically important cities.
Commercial Bank Managing Director/CEO Sanath Manatunge said Prestige was intended to support customers in managing their wealth, business interests, family needs and long-term legacy.
Existing Elite clients are being transitioned to the new programme, the bank said.
Ceylinco Life has rewarded 80 members of its sales force with overseas tours to Vietnam and China for their outstanding performance in the company’s 2025 sales competitions.
The group comprised 62 sales achievers who travelled to Vietnam and 18 who visited China.
The Vietnam tour included visits to Hanoi’s Ho Chi Minh Complex, One Pillar Pagoda, Tran Quoc Pagoda and Hoan Kiem Lake. The group also travelled to Ha Long Bay, where they went on an Aurora Cruise and explored attractions including Sung Sot Cave, Luun Cave and Titop Island.
The tour also featured a sunset party aboard the cruise, with music and refreshments.
The 18 achievers who travelled to China visited several of Beijing’s major historical and cultural attractions, including Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City and the Summer Palace. They also took a boat ride on Kunming Lake.
A highlight of the China tour was a visit to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, including a round-trip cable car ride. The group also attended an acrobatic show at Chaoyang Theatre and visited the Panda Garden at Beijing Zoo.
The company said the tours were organised to recognise and reward sales personnel for their performance and achievements.
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