Business
UN Global Compact Network Sri Lanka amplifies industry leadership
UN Global Compact Network Sri Lanka is introducing a transformative patron structure for its Working Groups, set to take effect in 2025. This initiative strengthens the Network’s commitment to advancing corporate sustainability by amplifying the leadership of select companies within their respective issue areas. The Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed on March 20, 2025, at the 80 Club, in the presence of the Network’s Board Members.
Network Sri Lanka’s Working Groups have long provided a platform for businesses to exchange knowledge and drive industry-wide progress on sustainability. With this new structure, leading companies will take on an enhanced role in guiding participants within their Working Groups, offering mentorship, strategic insights, and best practices to drive collective action.
As Patrons, these companies will host events, provide guidance, and shape the direction of their respective Working Groups, ensuring that discussions translate into tangible, scalable solutions aligned with national and global sustainability priorities.
Meet the Patrons and Their Areas of Leadership
MAS Holdings (Pvt) Ltd – Gender & Diversity
MAS Holdings will lead the Gender & Diversity Working Group, championing inclusive business practices, gender equality, and women’s leadership in corporate Sri Lanka.
A. Baur & Co (Pvt) Ltd – Business & Human Rights
A. Baur & Co will lead efforts within the Business & Human Rights Working Group, championing ethical business practices, human rights protections, and responsible corporate conduct.
Talawakelle Tea Estates PLC – Climate Emergency Task Force
Talawakelle Tea Estates will drive action within the Climate Emergency Task Force, supporting businesses in climate change mitigation, adaptation and resilience strategies.
Kelani Valley Plantations PLC – Water & Ocean Stewardship
Kelani Valley Plantations will support the Water & Ocean Stewardship Working Group, focusing on sustainable water management and conservation practices.
Dilmah Ceylon Tea Company PLC – Water & Ocean Stewardship & Sustainable Supply Chain & SME
Dilmah will take on a dual Patron role, sharing its expertise in sustainable supply chains and water stewardship, particularly in global supply chain sustainability and marine biodiversity conservation efforts.
Teejay Lanka PLC – Sustainable Supply Chain & SME
Teejay Lanka will support the Sustainable Supply Chain Working Group, bringing its expertise in ethical sourcing, circularity, and sustainable manufacturing.
“As a steward of A. Baur & Co. (Pvt.) Ltd.’s 127-year legacy, built on ethical governance and the unwavering dedication of our people. Ensuring a living wage is not just a moral imperative, it’s also a smart business strategy. When the employees have the financial security they need, they’re more productive, engaged, and loyal. We recognize that this transformative change cannot be achieved in isolation. By working together with other stakeholders, we can create a ripple effect that benefits everyone. Through our commitment to advocating for a living wage, we aim to inspire broader private sector participation, facilitate the exchange of best practices, and strengthen the ecosystem for equitable economic growth in Sri Lanka.” – Rolf Blaser, Managing Director / CEO, A. Baur & Co. (Pvt.) Ltd.
Network Sri Lanka is the Country Network of the UN Global Compact, mobilizing businesses to integrate sustainability into their core strategies. Through its Working Groups, the Network facilitates peer learning, collaboration, and collective action to drive meaningful change across industries.
The total outstanding market liquidity surplus or excess funds available in Sri Lanka’s banking system for lending and transactions declined by Rs. 36.65 billion in a week, according to the Central Bank’s latest economic indicators report.
An economic researcher analysing the data noted: “Treasury bill and bond auctions likely drained liquidity. If this tightening persists, short-term interest rates could rise, raising borrowing costs and potentially slowing economic growth. The situation warrants close monitoring, especially as the manufacturing sector is already facing a slowdown whether due to seasonal or structural factors.”
The report also highlighted the following developments in Sri Lanka’s economy:
Fiscal improvements: The deficit has narrowed but remains elevated.
Sectoral trends: The stock market rallied, and the services sector showed slower expansion (tourism, retail and IT driving resilience).
Total expenditure and net lending increased to Rs. 1,301.9 bn during the three months ending March 2025 compared to Rs. 1,197.5 bn in the corresponding period of 2024.
During the three months ending March 2025, the overall budget deficit decreased to Rs. 234.5 bn compared to Rs. 281.3 bn recorded in the corresponding period of 2024
The rupee value of T-Bills and T-Bonds held by foreign investors decreased by 2 per cent in comparison to the previous week.
“The April 2025 industrial slowdown points to weaker output, likely due to seasonal factors such as holidays or subdued demand. However, this was partially offset by an expansion in the Services PMI, offering some relief. The broader economic outlook for Sri Lanka remains uncertain, as these mixed signals unfold as Sri Lanka would receive a tariff letter from the US in the coming weeks. With market liquidity already tightening due to government borrowings from the banking system, policymakers face mounting challenges in balancing growth and stability,” the economic researcher noted.
By Sanath Nanayakkare
AIA Sri Lanka’s ‘Pawfect Match’ campaign, in partnership with animal welfare groups, inspired 500+ adoptions of stray pets. The initiative highlighted adoption, responsible ownership, and compassion, tackling Sri Lanka’s stray animal crisis. AIA thanks all supporters for their life-changing impact.
The campaign served as a reminder that even small acts of kindness like adopting a stray can make a big impact. It also provided an opportunity for the public to learn more about responsible pet ownership, animal rights, and the importance of compassion toward all creatures.
Calton Sweet House Pvt. Ltd., a key part of Calton Group, was honored as the Best National Industry Brand in the Medium-Scale Food and Beverage Sector at the National Industry Brand Excellence Awards 2024, organized by the Industrial Development Board. Deshamanya Mahesh De Silva, Director of Finance and IT at Calton Group, accepted the award.
Established in 1991, Calton Sweet House has over 30 years of excellence, specializing in cakes, snacks, and frozen bakery items, with 20+ outlets across Negombo, Katunayake, and Colombo, including at Bandaranaike International Airport. The company holds ISO, HACCP, and GMP certifications, ensuring top-quality standards.
Starting as a small store in 1983, Calton Group now employs 300+ staff and operates multiple businesses, including Calton Hyper Market and Calton Catering, while partnering with global brands like Unilever and Upfield. The group remains committed to serving customers with high-quality, safely packaged food products.
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