By Ifham Nizam

The 22nd edition of Profood Propack & Agbiz 2025 was launched in grand style at the Cinnamon Grand recently, highlighting the Sri Lankan food processing industry’s immense potential to contribute to national economic growth.

The event, attended by key industry stakeholders, government officials and innovators, reinforced the sector’s vital role in driving exports, supporting local farmers and integrating advanced technology into food production.

Speaking at the event, Industries Deputy Minister Chathuranga Abeysinghe commended the efforts of the Sri Lanka Food Processors Association, its chairman Tushita Wijesinghe, and its committee members for their dedication to innovation and excellence.

The minister emphasized how the food processing industry does not operate in isolation but instead fuels a network of associated sectors, including packaging, research and development, machinery, and sustainable agriculture.

He noted that despite fiscal challenges, the government is committed to supporting the industry due to its extensive value chain, which impacts a significant portion of the population.

“Sri Lankan food processing is not just about exports—it’s about sustaining our farmers, modernizing supply chains, and ensuring fair trade, Abeysinghe said. With 27% of Sri Lanka’s population relying on agriculture, the food industry plays a pivotal role in rural development and economic stability.

Moreover, the global food market presents lucrative opportunities, particularly in organic and innovative food segments, where Sri Lanka’s unique value proposition stands out. With increasing demand for sustainability, traceability, and high-quality food, Sri Lanka’s food processors have a competitive advantage in catering to international markets.

A key focus of the event was the role of innovation in transforming the food industry. Chairman of the Awards Committee, Damitha Perera, highlighted the importance of nurturing young talent, particularly from universities and research institutions. “For the past 4-5 years, we’ve been promoting innovation at the university level because we’ve seen promising products emerge, he said.

To bridge the gap between academia and industry, commercial viability and market alignment have become focal points. The institutional category awards, recognizing the most innovative product, process, and green innovation, were designed to encourage young researchers to create market-ready solutions. However, Perera noted a challenge—students often remained too focused on their own innovations without exploring the broader exhibition. He urged university staff to ensure students actively engage with industry experts and corporate exhibitors to expand their knowledge.

“It’s not just about developing a product—it’s about understanding the market, learning from industry leaders, and commercializing innovations effectively, he stated.

One of the major themes discussed at the event was strengthening supply chains. With increasing demand for organic, processed, and functional foods, Sri Lanka’s food industry has the potential to position itself as a global player. The Ministry of Industries is working closely with the Ministries of Agriculture and Plantation to streamline supply chains, promote sustainable practices, and enhance technological capabilities.

By Hiran H Senewiratne

The stock market yesterday indicated a dull sentiment against the backdrop of the government signing a bilateral credit agreement with Japan, market analysts said.

Further, absence of clear cut policies for the stock market added insult to injury. As a result, mixed sentiments noted in both indices. The All- Share Price Index went down by 7.68 points, while the S and P SL20 rose by 0.4 points. Turnover stood at Rs 2.1 billion with two crossings.

Those crossings were reported in JKH, which crossed 16.1 million shares to the tune of Rs 328 and its shares traded at Rs 21 and Hemas Holdings 525,000 shares crossed for Rs 63.2 million; its shares traded at Rs120.

In the retail market top six companies that have mainly contributed to the turnover were; Hemas Holdings Rs 486 million (4.1 million shares traded), RIL Properties Rs 116 million (7.7 million shares traded), Hayleys Rs 108 million (774,000 shares traded), Sampath Bank Rs 105 million (875,000 shares traded), JKH Rs 93.8 million (4.4 million shares traded) and Melstacope Rs 75.4 million (584,000 shares traded). During the day 67.6 million share volumes changed hands in 11800 transactions.

It is said that manufacturing sector counters led the market with JKH, while banking sector and hotel sector counters too actively participated.

Yesterday, the rupee was quoted at Rs 295.40/55 to the US dollar in the spot market, stronger from Rs 295.60/75 the previous day, dealers said, while bond yields were broadly steady.

A bond maturing on 15.09.2027 was quoted at 9.40/45 percent, down from 9.40/47 percent.

A bond maturing on 15.02.2028 was quoted at 10.00/05 percent.

A bond maturing on 01.07.2028 was quoted at 10.17/25 percent, from 10.19/20 percent.

A bond maturing on 15.09.2029 was quoted at 10.73/75 percent, from 10.73/76 percent.

A bond maturing on 15.10.2030 was quoted at 10.95/11.00 percent, down from 10.95/11.02 percent.

On International Women’s Day 2025, Samsung Sri Lanka proudly reaffirms its commitment to fostering diversity, inclusion, and groundbreaking innovation under the theme #AccelerateAction. This year, Samsung Sri Lanka is excited to showcase how women are at the heart of our evolution in technology and business. With a focus on empowering every voice, the company is sharing powerful testimonials from female leaders across various divisions, emphasizing that recruiting, retaining, and elevating diverse talent is the cornerstone of its success.

Empowering Women Across Every Division

Recruiting, Retaining & Developing Diverse Talent

Nadeesha Lakmali, Assistant Manager, HR Business Partner explains,

“At Samsung, empowering women in tech isn’t just an initiative—it’s who we are. We are committed to recruiting, retaining, and elevating diverse talent because innovation thrives when women lead, create, and shape the future of smart technology. Our focus on talent development ensures that every team member has the opportunity to grow, share ideas, and contribute to a transformative vision.”

This commitment extends to robust training programs and mentorship opportunities that nurture potential and create pathways for professional advancement.

Supporting Women in Leadership, Decision-Making & Business

Kumudhi Gayanjalee, Assistant Manager, Business Management Team adds,

“At Samsung, we don’t just support women in leadership—we champion them. By fostering financial empowerment and strategic decision-making, we ensure that women drive business success and lead the future of innovation. We are dedicated to creating an environment where every decision is made with inclusivity and strategic insight, paving the way for robust leadership models that benefit our organization and the industry at large.”

This dedication to leadership extends through targeted initiatives and leadership development programs, designed to elevate women into key decision-making roles across the organization.