Business

National Chamber of Exporters of Sri Lanka urges citizens to ‘vote wisely’ in September presidential election

Published

2 years ago

2024/09/17

Jayantha Karunarathna - President (L) / Shiham Marikar - SG&CEO (R)

As Sri Lanka stands on the cusp of a critical Presidential Election this September, the National Chamber of Exporters (NCE) calls upon all citizens to vote with both their hearts and minds. Our beloved nation is at a crossroads, and the decisions made at the ballot box will define the course of Sri Lanka’s future. It is vital that each voter considers the key challenges we face and elect leaders who possess the vision, capability, and integrity to steer us through these turbulent times.

Sri Lanka’s financial situation remains fragile, and we must not overlook the urgency of addressing it. In the coming years, we will begin the repayment of substantial international loans, a burden that could weigh heavily on the country if not handled wisely. Strengthening our foreign reserves is crucial, not just to meet these obligations but to provide a cushion for future economic stability. Voters must prioritize leaders who have clear plans for financial management, debt repayment strategies, and sustainable economic policies that can bolster our national reserves.

The state of the economy is another pressing concern. Years of economic uncertainty, rising inflation, and unemployment have left our economy vulnerable. It is clear that short-term, reactionary solutions will no longer suffice. We require a President who not only understands the complexities of the current economic landscape but is also prepared to implement long-term, strategic plans. Only through steady, well-thought-out leadership can we hope to stabilize the economy and ensure a prosperous future for all citizens.

Jayantha Karunaratne, President of the NCE, emphasized, “Strong leadership has never been more critical. The challenges facing Sri Lanka demand a leader with unwavering resolve, someone who can unite the nation in the face of adversity and make the difficult decisions required for recovery. This is not the time for indecision or political gamesmanship. We need a leader with the strength and clarity of vision to navigate through difficult waters and foster collaboration between all sectors of society.”

Equally important are solid, long-term policies that look beyond immediate challenges to address the root causes of our difficulties. Whether in financial management, education, infrastructure, or healthcare, it is essential that the next President focuses on creating sustainable frameworks that will benefit future generations. These policies must be carefully planned, inclusive of expert advice, and open to adaptation as the global and local economic landscapes evolve.

Respect for the Constitution is a cornerstone of any democratic society. Sri Lanka is no exception. Our future leader must be someone who respects the rule of law and operates within the boundaries of our Constitution. Governance should be transparent, with every action made in the best interests of the nation. A leader who upholds democratic principles, protects civil liberties, and ensures the fair application of justice will be essential in restoring trust in our political system.

We must also not forget the growing number of Sri Lankans who are struggling to meet basic needs. Economic instability has taken a heavy toll on the most vulnerable members of our society. Our next President should be someone with compassion, who genuinely cares about uplifting the underprivileged. Welfare programs, social support, and targeted assistance for those who are suffering must be part of any candidate’s platform. No one in Sri Lanka should be left behind as we work toward recovery.

A comprehensive economic revival is not only necessary but urgent. The next leader must have actionable plans that can be implemented swiftly to revive growth, attract foreign investment, and boost local industries. Economic recovery will be a long road, but with the right leadership, we can see the rebirth of a stronger, more resilient economy that offers opportunities for all citizens, regardless of their background or social standing.

Karunaratne further stressed the importance of the export sector: “Supporting the export sector is also of paramount importance. As a key driver of foreign exchange earnings and economic growth, exporters play a crucial role in the recovery of our economy. The next President must have clear and robust policies that enable exporters to thrive, ensuring they have access to the resources, support, and international market opportunities they need to succeed. The strength of Sri Lanka’s export industry is directly tied to the health of our economy, and a flourishing export sector will help the country regain its financial footing.”

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Business

The Ceylon Chamber’s Commercial Document Registration Division expands export support

Published

14 hours ago

2026/07/11

Thilina Walpola

The Commercial Documents Registration Division (CDRD) of The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce has expanded its export support services with the introduction of the Free Sale Letter for Pharmaceuticals, providing Sri Lankan pharmaceutical manufacturers and exporters with an additional document certification service to support their export processes and compliance requirements in international markets.

The new service expands CDRD’s portfolio of trade documentation solutions, which includes Certificates of Origin and the certification of key commercial documents required by overseas buyers, customs authorities, and regulatory bodies. These services assist exporters across sectors by helping ensure their documentation meets applicable requirements for international trade.

Established in 1925 as one of the authorised institutions to issue Certificates of Origin in Sri Lanka, CDRD has supported the country’s international trade for nearly a century. Today, the Division provides certification and verification services to exporters, manufacturers, freight forwarders, logistics providers, and other trade stakeholders, supporting businesses in meeting documentation requirements for global markets.

In addition to pharmaceutical certification, CDRD facilitates the certification of Commercial Invoices, Packing Lists, Price Lists, Health Certificates, Phytosanitary Certificates, Certificates of Analysis, Bills of Lading, Survey Reports, Beneficiary Certificates, and other export-related documents. The Division also issues Free Sale Letters and Surveyor Appointment Letters, while supporting exporters through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Electronic Document Attestation System (e-DAS), enabling secure and efficient document authentication.

Through established processes, digital solutions, and its e-service platform, CDRD continues to enhance the efficiency and accessibility of trade documentation services. Available 24/7 and 365 days of the year, the platform enables exporters to submit and manage documentation requirements conveniently while ensuring that certified documents meet internationally accepted requirements. By providing reliable documentation support and adapting its services to changing trade needs, the Division assists Sri Lankan businesses in managing export requirements and accessing international markets.

For more information on obtaining commercial document registration services, contact Achala via achala@chamber.lk / 0115588886

Business

Siyapatha Finance unveils newest branch in Bandarawela

Published

14 hours ago

2026/07/11

Thilina Walpola

Siyapatha Finance PLC recently expanded its island-wide footprint with the successful inauguration of its 64th branch in Bandarawela. Strategically located in scenic hill town in the Badulla District, the latest branch offers convenient and wider access to tailored, customer-centric financial solutions.

The branch was ceremoniously declared open by Siyapatha Finance PLC Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mathisha Hewavitharana, joined by Chief Operating Officer (COO)Rajeev De Silva, Ms.D.M. Dewmi Tharindi, a student of Bandarawela Dharmapala Vidyalaya who won the Under-18 Girls’ 3,000m event at the Junior National Athletics Championship, the Senior Management and staff members as well as Traffic OIC Kandasami, Trade Association Secretary Sunanda Rathnayaka, representatives of the government and private banks and insurance companies and well-wishers.

Sharing his thoughts, Siyapatha Finance PLC CEO Mathisha Hewavitharana remarked: “We are deeply honoured to be of service to the people of Bandarawela. Opening this branch is a pivotal step in our 2026 expansion strategy and a reflection of our commitment to strengthen our presence in Sri Lanka. It is a region that showcases potential for greater economic development primarily through the country’s traditional agricultural practices. We look forward to reaching as many different communities as possible in the coming years.”

The Bandarawela branch offers a comprehensive product portfolio including leasing, fixed deposits, gold financing, business loans, personal loans, fast draft, and factoring to Smart Pay, the Company’s bill payment facility. With a thorough understanding about the current socio-economic dynamics of the region, the well-trained team at the newest branch is dedicated to providing flexible financial solutions to aspiring individuals as well as small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs).

Business

Dialog recognised as Sri Lanka’s Most Loved Service and Telecommunications Brand for third consecutive year

Published

14 hours ago

2026/07/11

Thilina Walpola

Dialog Axiata PLC, Sri Lanka’s #1 connectivity provider, has once again been recognised as Sri Lanka’s Most Loved Brand in the Service and Telecommunications sectors, while also ranking among the top Corporate Brands in the LMD Brands Annual. Marking its third consecutive year at the top of both categories, the recognition reflects the company’s commitment to enriching Sri Lankan lives and enterprises through technology, while creating value for customers, communities and the nation.

The accolades were awarded through the LMD Brands Annual survey, conducted independently by PepperCube Consultants on behalf of Media Services. Based on responses from 400 readers across Sri Lanka, representing a broad demographic and geographic mix, the survey identified the brands that resonated most strongly with consumers in terms of trust, loyalty and brand affinity.

Lasantha Theverapperuma, Group Chief Marketing Officer of Dialog Axiata PLC said, “Being recognised as Sri Lanka’s Most Loved Brand across both the Service and Telecommunications sectors is a meaningful endorsement of the trust and confidence that Sri Lankans continue to place in Dialog. This recognition reflects our commitment to understanding and serving the evolving needs of our customers while expanding access to digital connectivity, services and opportunities. As we continue to innovate and grow, we remain focused on creating value for communities and supporting Sri Lanka’s digital and socioeconomic progress.”

The recognition also reflects Dialog’s continued focus on innovation, customer-centricity and investments that support Sri Lanka’s digital future, including expanded 5G connectivity, AI-powered digital experiences and broader access to digital services.

Beyond connectivity, Dialog continues to support communities, livelihoods and the environment through initiatives such as Govi Mithuru, which provides AI-driven agricultural advisory services to over one million farmers, and Shishyadhara, which has enabled subsidy distribution to more than 450,000 underprivileged students. The company also continues to advance its Net Zero 2050 ambition through energy optimisation, renewable energy adoption and the expansion of solar-powered network infrastructure.

Further underscoring the brand’s standing among Sri Lankan consumers, Dialog was also recognised as the ‘Service Brand of the Year’ for the fifth time and the ‘Telecommunication Brand of the Year’ for the 15th consecutive year at the SLIM-KANTAR People’s Awards 2026.