Business
NCE draws President AKD’s attention to his pledge of ridding SL of corruption and waste
A critical factor for the success of the new government will be the fulfillment of key election promises, especially the eradication of corruption and waste, which have long hindered the country’s economic and administrative systems, the National Chamber of Exporters (NCE) states in a congratulatory note to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake on his assuming office as the President of Sri Lanka.
‘As we celebrate this transition, we must also acknowledge the significant challenges ahead. Sri Lanka faces severe financial constraints, particularly in meeting its debt repayment obligations. Balancing these commitments while fostering economic growth will require steady leadership and innovative solutions, the NCE congratulatory message adds.
The press release: ‘The National Chamber of Exporters (NCE) extends its sincere congratulations to Mr. Anura Kumara Dissanayake on his historic victory as the newly elected President of Sri Lanka. This decisive mandate reflects the trust and confidence the people have placed in his leadership to guide the country forward.
‘We also take this opportunity to express our deepest gratitude to the outgoing President, Mr. Ranil Wickremesinghe, whose exceptional leadership steered the country through one of its most challenging periods. Under his stewardship, Sri Lanka experienced a remarkable economic recovery, particularly during a time when the nation was on the brink of collapse. His efforts to stabilize the country and lay the groundwork for recovery will be remembered as a key chapter in our nation’s history.
‘We further recognize and appreciate Mr. Sajith Premadasa for his steadfast role as Leader of the Opposition, providing essential checks and balances to the government. His leadership has been instrumental in safeguarding the democratic values of the country.
‘The NCE expresses its gratitude to the people of Sri Lanka for conducting a peaceful election, once again demonstrating the resilience of the country’s democratic processes. The electorate has shown commendable civic responsibility by voting responsibly and ensuring the preservation of democracy.
‘The NCE fully supports President Dissanayake’s commitment to maintaining transparency and accountability in governance, which are essential for restoring public trust and fostering a more efficient and productive state. Additionally, the removal of bureaucratic red tape is crucial for accelerating economic growth. Exporters and businesses have faced unnecessary delays and obstacles due to outdated administrative processes. We urge the new administration to streamline procedures and create a more business-friendly environment that empowers entrepreneurs and exporters to drive the economy forward.
‘We also urge the newly elected President to prioritize an export-driven economy as a key strategy for sustainable development. Increasing export revenues is vital not only for easing the country’s debt burden but also for improving the balance of trade and boosting national income. The NCE believes that Sri Lanka’s economic future depends on empowering exporters, creating favorable trade policies, and facilitating access to new global markets.
‘The NCE stands ready to offer its assistance in steering the country toward economic resilience. We look forward to working closely with the government in driving growth within the export sector and ensuring that the policies implemented contribute to the long-term prosperity of Sri Lanka.
‘Once again, we congratulate President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and wish him great success in leading Sri Lanka through these challenging times toward a brighter and more prosperous future.’
The inaugural Sri Lanka Fintech Summit 2025 concluded with industry leaders and regulators establishing two critical national priorities: a bold target to reduce physical cash usage and a push for consolidated regulatory oversight.
In a key decision, participants set a clear three-year goal to lower the ratio of cash in circulation to GDP from 4.5% to 3.5%. The strategy will focus on digitizing high-cash sectors like transport, utilities, and SME payments, while expanding digital access through post offices and cooperatives.
For the long-term health of the ecosystem, stakeholders agreed to lobby for the creation of a single, unified regulatory authority dedicated to fintech oversight. This aims to streamline approvals and provide clearer guidance for innovators.
“Our members needed to leave with concrete action points,” said Channa de Silva, Chairman of the Fintech Forum, Sri Lanka. The summit, designed as a series of closed-door roundtables with regulators including the Central Bank, produced actionable frameworks. “It was about defining KPIs, setting targets, and giving the industry a shared direction,” de Silva explained.
The outcomes signal a concerted shift from discussion to execution, aiming to build a more inclusive, efficient, and secure digital financial economy for Sri Lanka.
By Sanath Nanayakkare ✍️
A new force in Sri Lanka’s food industry, Kukus Group, is gaining momentum with a clear vision to deliver authentic cuisine, high hygiene standards, and affordability. Founded by young entrepreneurs Nadeera Senanayaka, Lakmini Gurusinghe, and Randila Gunasinghe, the group has successfully launched its pilot outlet and is now preparing for a significant nationwide expansion.
The inaugural in Kotte has served as a successful proof of concept. Operating for five months, this modern street-food outlet has garnered a strong customer response, confirming market demand and providing the confidence to fund the group’s ambitious growth strategy.
The inaugural in Kotte
“The positive reception has been overwhelming and has solidified our plans,” said Lakmini Gurusinghe and Randila Gunasinghe. “Our Kotte outlet is the operational model we will replicate – ensuring consistent quality, disciplined operations, and excellent service across all future locations.”
The group’s expansion strategy is built on three distinct thematic brands:
Kukus Street: Targeting young urban customers, these outlets offer a vibrant, casual dining experience with a menu of Sri Lankan rice and curry, kottu, snacks, and BBQ, with most meals priced under Rs. 1,500. Services include dine-in, takeaway, and delivery.
Kukus Beach: Planned for coastal areas, beginning in the South, this concept will feature an urban-style beach restaurant and pub designed for relaxed social dining.
Kukus Bioscope: Celebrating Sri Lanka’s cinematic heritage, this dedicated restaurant concept will create a nostalgic cultural space inspired by the golden eras of Sinhala cinema, with the first outlet slated for Colombo.
The immediate plan includes transforming the flagship Kotte location into Kukus Pub & Bar, pending regulatory approvals. The long-term vision is to develop 18 outlets nationwide: 10 Kukus Street locations, 5 Kukus Beach venues, and 3 Kukus Bioscope establishments.
“Kukus Group is more than a hospitality brand; it’s a celebration of Sri Lankan flavors and culture,” the founders concluded. “Our mission is to build trusted, recognizable brands that connect deeply with communities and offer lasting cultural value alongside authentic cuisine. We are dynamic and excited to proceed with this strategic expansion,” they said.
By Sanath Nanayakkare
Fcode Labs marked its seventh anniversary by hosting its annual Awards Night 2025 at Waters Edge, celebrating team achievements and reinforcing its organizational values.
The event featured keynote addresses from Co-Founders & CEOs Buddhishan Manamperi and Tharindu Malawaraarachchi, who reflected on the company’s annual progress and future strategy. Chief Operating Officer Pamaljith Harshapriya outlined operational priorities for the next phase of growth.
Awards were presented across three key categories. Prabhanu Gunaweera and Dushan Pramod received Customer Excellence awards for partner collaboration. Performance Excellence awards were granted to Munsira Mansoor, Thusara Wanigathunga, Thushan De Silva, Adithya Narasinghe, Avantha Dissanayake, Amanda Janmaweera, Sithika Guruge, and Sandali Gunawardena. The Value-Based Behaviour awards were given to Thilina Hewagama, Udara Sembukuttiarachchi, and Kavindu Dhananjaya for exemplifying company values.
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