1. www.catswebnews.lk , Business 2026

 

The future of aging lies in preventive health: Christell shines a spotlight on longevity

Christell Luxury Wellness hosted ‘Age Gracefully’, an exclusive evening bringing longevity, preventive health, regenerative medicine, beauty and wellness into the spotlight. Held at The Shoppes at City of Dreams, the event brought together distinguished guests, industry leaders and luxury wellness partners around a critical question that frames our everyday lives: How can we live longer, healthier and better?
At the heart of the evening was an overview of longevity and preventive health led by Dr. Shanika Arsecularatne, CEO & Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine Specialist of Christell Luxury Wellness. The event focused on the concept of longevity through a luxury wellness experience, encouraging people to focus on their long-term health through awareness, preventive measures, health optimization and a proactive mindset to ageing.
While the global conversation around longevity is rapidly growing, Christell's emphasis on longevity and preventive health has been built for over 30 years. As a trusted name and trendsetter in Sri Lanka's beauty and wellness industry, Christell has continuously evolved with advances in science, technology and regenerative medicine. Age Gracefully represents the next chapter of that journey — advancing beyond looking good to living healthier and ageing better.
Guests experienced this philosophy through interactive health and wellness experiences, including a “Check Your Health Status” quiz, Vitamin Level Test demonstration and Hair Scan demonstration, alongside luxury beauty, fragrance and wellness experiences by Exclusive Lines, Zam Gems and Dilmah.
The evening highlighted an important shift in modern lifestyle that has become prevalent around the world: prevention begins long before illness strikes, and good health and longevity are closely intertwined. As Sri Lanka begins to embrace this new conversation, Christell continues to champion a future where beauty, science, preventive health, regenerative medicine and longevity come together. The measure of a healthy life is no longer simply to live longer – it is to live better, for longer.

04.09.2026

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From Sri Lanka to the Global Stage: Maliban’s HumanTill Wins Crystal at MAD STARS 2026

Maliban’s purpose-driven HumaniTill: It’s a Second Chance to Life campaign has achieved international recognition by winning a Crystal Award at MAD STARS 2026 under the Brand Experience & Activation Stars | Culture & Context category, marking another milestone for Sri Lankan creativity on the global stage.
The recognition celebrates a campaign that transformed a simple yet powerful idea rooted in empathy into a meaningful brand experience, demonstrating how creativity can go beyond communication to create positive social impact.
MAD STARS, one of Asia’s most recognised global creative platforms, celebrates innovative ideas across advertising, marketing, and brand experiences. The awards recognise work that demonstrates creativity, cultural relevance, strategic thinking, and the ability to create meaningful connections with audiences, positioning winning work among the region’s most impactful creative initiatives.
The HumaniTill campaign was introduced under the Maliban Jeewithaloka Programme, with the aim of becoming a source of strength and hope for Sri Lankans facing life-changing challenges. The initiative was carried out in collaboration with the Meththa Foundation, a humanitarian organisation that has been supporting people with disabilities for over three decades by providing customised artificial limbs and helping them regain mobility, independence, and confidence.
Unlike a conventional donation box, HumaniTill was designed as a life-sized human figure featuring a transparent arm and leg, symbolising individuals who have lost limbs due to accidents or illness. The installation served as a powerful reminder of the importance of giving and the possibility of providing someone with a second chance at life.
The Crystal Award at MAD STARS 2026 further reinforces the impact of HumaniTill, recognising the campaign’s ability to combine purpose, creativity, and community participation into a powerful brand experience.

Commenting on the recognition, Positha Perera, Group Head, Corporate Communications at Maliban Group of Companies, stated, “At Maliban, inspiring goodness is a way of life. Through HumaniTill, our aim was to give people not only mobility, but a second chance at life. This recognition at MAD STARS 2026 is a testament to the power of meaningful ideas and the collective effort of everyone who supported this initiative. We are grateful to the Meththa Foundation for their invaluable contribution in helping bring hope and opportunity to those who need it most.”

The recognition at MAD STARS 2026 adds to Maliban’s growing portfolio of purpose-led initiatives that create meaningful impact beyond its role as one of Sri Lanka’s most trusted household brands.

Through HumaniTill, Maliban continues to demonstrate that creativity can inspire compassion, encourage action, and help transform lives, reinforcing its commitment to building a society driven by goodness, empathy, and hope.

14.09.2026

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Sathosa Motors Secures ISO 9001:2015 Certification, Strengthening Quality Standards

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Sathosa Motors PLC (SML), the authorised distributor of Isuzu vehicles in Sri Lanka, has secured ISO 9001:2015 certification, strengthening its focus on quality management, customer satisfaction and operational excellence across its business operations.
The certification was awarded by Bureau Veritas Certification Holding SAS – UK Branch following an audit of the company’s management system. The internationally recognised certification confirms that Sathosa Motors’ management system complies with the requirements of the ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System standard.
The certification covers several key areas of the company’s operations, including the import and sale of brand-new Isuzu vehicles, the sale of Isuzu Genuine Spare Parts, and after-sales services covering vehicle repair and maintenance.
According to Sathosa Motors, the certification provides a structured framework for maintaining consistent processes throughout the customer journey, from purchasing an Isuzu vehicle to obtaining genuine spare parts and accessing after-sales services.
The certification is also significant for the company as it applies on a multi-site basis, extending beyond its head office in Colombo to a number of locations within the Sathosa Motors network.
These include the company’s workshops in Peliyagoda, Vauxhall Street and Kurunegala, as well as genuine spare-parts operations in Rathnapura, Badulla, Dambulla, Kandy, Panchikawatta, Matara, Kurunegala and Negombo.
The multi-site certification reflects the company’s efforts to maintain common quality-management practices across its network and provide customers with consistent service standards at different locations.
Sathosa Motors said the achievement goes beyond recognition under an international standard, providing a framework to further strengthen process discipline, accountability, service consistency and continuous improvement within the organisation.
The certification comes as Sathosa Motors continues to develop the presence of Isuzu in the Sri Lankan automotive market. The company expects the strengthened quality-management framework to contribute towards greater customer confidence in its vehicles, genuine spare parts and after-sales support.
Sathosa Motors is also expected to continue developing its internal processes and workforce as part of its broader focus on operational excellence and improving the ownership experience for Isuzu customers.
The ISO 9001:2015 certification marks another step in the company’s efforts to establish quality management as an ongoing part of its business operations while responding to changing customer expectations in Sri Lanka’s automotive sector.

12.09.2026

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Capacity-Building by CDB Empowers SME Entrepreneurs in Kandy

• SMBPlus drives capacity building reaffirming CDB commitment to inclusive economic growth
• Women entrepreneurs encompass over 75% of participants

Citizens Development Business Finance PLC (CDB) reiterated its commitment to strengthening Sri Lanka's small and medium enterprise (SME) sector with an SMB Capacity-Building Programme in Kandy. Held on August 3rd at the Divisional Secretariat Hall B, the programme was driven under CDB's SMBPlus as part of CDB's broader strategy to support entrepreneurs beyond conventional financial services. The focus instead is on equipping them with the knowledge, tools and confidence needed to build resilient businesses.

Notably, more than 75% of the participants were women entrepreneurs, underscoring CDB's continued emphasis on advancing women's economic empowerment across the island's business community, reinforcing them as an integral facet of the nation’s economy.

The programme collated local business owners for a day of practical learning, business development insights and valuable networking opportunities aimed at supporting long-term, sustainable growth. Participants engaged in interactive knowledge-sharing sessions led by industry experts, covering key areas of business development and growth strategy.

Beyond the formal sessions, entrepreneurs were given the opportunity to network, exchange experiences and explore potential future collaborations with fellow business owners in the region — reflecting CDB's belief that community and shared learning are as vital to SME success as capital itself.

Commenting on the initiative, Chamath Siriwardana, Senior Assistant General Manager — Finance, said, "Our commitment to Sri Lanka's SME sector goes far beyond financing. Capacity-Building Programmes like these allow us to support entrepreneurs, particularly women in business, and give them the practical knowledge and networks needed to grow with confidence. Empowering our SMEs is central to building a more resilient and inclusive economy for the country."

The Kandy programme follows the success of the CDB SMB Fair – Kandy, reinforcing the Company's sustained engagement with the region's SME community, well beyond simply providing marketplace access. Together, these initiatives reflect CDB's sustainability-driven approach to creating long-term value for entrepreneurs and fostering inclusive economic development across Sri Lanka.

Through these initiatives, CDB continues to reaffirm its role as a long-term partner to Sri Lanka's entrepreneurs — combining knowledge-sharing, capacity building and sustainable partnerships to help SMEs grow into stronger, more resilient businesses that contribute meaningfully to the nation's economic development.

12.09.2026

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Siyapatha Finance PLC partners with the Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials (PCAF) for Carbon Accounting Standards

Strengthening Climate Accountability Through Global Carbon Accounting Standards

Siyapatha Finance PLC has announced its official membership in the Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials (PCAF), marking a significant milestone in the Company's sustainability journey and reinforcing its commitment to responsible finance and climate action.
The membership reflects Siyapatha Finance's continued efforts to integrate Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles into its business strategy while supporting the transition towards a low-carbon and climate-resilient economy.
PCAF is a collaboration of more than 770 financial institutions across six continents, working together to develop and implement a harmonized framework for measuring and disclosing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with financial activities. By joining PCAF, Siyapatha Finance will adopt the global standard  for measuring emissions associated with financial activities and further strengthen its climate-related disclosures.
Recognizing the financial sector's role in addressing climate change, Siyapatha Finance will use the PCAF framework to better understand emissions associated with its financing portfolio, enabling more informed decision-making on climate-related risks and sustainable finance opportunities while aligning with evolving global sustainability standards.
Siyapatha Finance PLC Chief Executive Officer Mr. Mathisha Hewavitharana said: "Joining PCAF reflects Siyapatha Finance's long-term vision of embedding sustainability into our business strategy. As climate-related expectations continue to evolve, this partnership strengthens our ability to advance responsible finance while contributing to Sri Lanka's transition towards a more sustainable and resilient economy."
Highlighting the importance of the initiative, Siyapatha Finance PLC Senior Regional Manager Mr. Amila Bambarandage said: "By adopting global best practices in carbon accounting, we are strengthening our ability to make informed financing decisions, enhance climate transparency and contribute meaningfully to Sri Lanka's journey towards a low-carbon and sustainable future."
By joining PCAF, Siyapatha Finance becomes part of a growing global network of financial institutions committed to embedding carbon accountability into financial decision-making. This milestone further reinforces the company's leadership in sustainable finance while supporting long-term value creation for customers, stakeholders, communities and the environment.

1109.2026

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Sri Lankan Corporate Health & Productivity Awards 2026 Unveiled to Recognise Organisations Building Healthier, More Productive Workplaces

The Sri Lankan Corporate Health & Productivity Awards (SLCHPA) 2026 was officially launched today, introducing an enhanced edition of the prestigious platform that recognises organisations committed to strengthening employee wellbeing, workplace health and productivity across Sri Lanka. The launch marks the beginning of a new chapter for an initiative that continues to encourage businesses to place their people at the centre of organisational success. Organised by the Chamber of Lankan Entrepreneurs (COYLE), in partnership with the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), and powered by Sampath Bank PLC as the Title Partner, SLCHPA 2026 aims to celebrate organisations that recognise the importance of investing in their people as a foundation for sustainable business growth. Through this partnership, JETRO brings Japanese expertise and global perspectives on workplace wellbeing and productivity, further strengthening the Awards’ focus on promoting internationally relevant workplace practices across Sri Lanka. Since its inception, SLCHPA has evolved into a platform that encourages businesses to look beyond traditional measures of success and recognise the role of a healthy, engaged workforce in driving organisational performance. Over the years, the Awards have highlighted organisations that have introduced impactful workplace initiatives while inspiring companies across sectors to continuously improve their approach towards employee wellbeing, workplace culture and productivity

Building on this strong foundation, SLCHPA 2026 will be bigger and better, with a renewed focus on recognising more organisations, showcasing innovative workplace initiatives and creating greater value for participating companies. The Awards will provide businesses with an opportunity to benchmark their practices, gain national recognition and demonstrate their commitment towards creating workplaces where employees can thrive. The importance of workplace health and productivity continues to grow as organisations navigate an evolving business landscape. By creating supportive work environments, companies can enhance employee wellbeing and engagement, strengthen workplace culture, improve talent retention and drive long-term sustainability. Through SLCHPA 2026, organisations will have the opportunity to showcase how investing in people creates meaningful value for employees and employers alike. Commenting on the launch, Suren Chandraratna, Chairman of COYLE, said, “SLCHPA was created to recognise organisations that understand the importance of their people and the connection between employee wellbeing and business success. Through this initiative, we aim to encourage

more companies to prioritise healthier workplaces and create a positive impact across Sri Lanka’s business community.” To ensure that the Awards maintain credibility and recognise genuine workplace excellence, the SLCHPA 2026 evaluation process will follow a structured and transparent approach. Organisations can participate by submitting their applications under relevant categories, highlighting their workplace initiatives, employee wellbeing programmes, productivity improvements and measurable outcomes. These submissions will then undergo a detailed assessment based on established criteria, with winners selected across categories based on their demonstrated commitment and excellence in workplace practices. With applications and registrations for SLCHPA 2026 opening soon, organisations of all sizes and sectors are invited to participate in this prestigious platform. Companies are encouraged to showcase their achievements, gain recognition for their workplace initiatives and become part of a national movement that celebrates healthier, more productive and future-ready workplaces in Sri Lanka.

11.09.02026

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The Colombo Border by Prime Lands Residencies PLC is a landmark residential development that redefines urban living at the gateway to Colombo. Situated in the rapidly emerging residential hub of Peliyagoda, the project has been designed to offer a complete lifestyle experience that combines convenience, connectivity, recreation, sustainability, and community living.
Spread across approximately 6.5 acres of Prime real estate, The Colombo Border comprises three residential towers, Brielle, Cosmos, and Amaa, offering thoughtfully designed two- and three-bedroom residences and few four-bedroom penthouses. Approximately 5 acres of the development have been dedicated to landscaped gardens, leisure spaces, recreational amenities, and open green areas, creating a vibrant and enriching environment where residents may enjoy a balanced lifestyle surrounded by comfort, convenience, and nature.
The completion of the superstructure of all three towers marks a major milestone for The Colombo Border, bringing one of Colombo's largest integrated residential developments significantly closer to completion with handover set to commence from 2027 mid onwards.
The pace at which the project has advanced reflects the strength of the construction planning behind it, as well as the coordinated execution of two specialized engineering teams working in parallel across the site. Prime Construction (Pvt) Ltd, the Group’s in-house construction arm, leads the construction of two towers, while Sanken Lanka (Pvt) Ltd leads the construction of the other tower.
The successful completion of the superstructure of all three towers, achieved through the coordinated efforts of two dedicated construction teams, reflects the meticulous planning, seamless execution, and engineering excellence of Prime Lands Residencies PLC.
Redefining modern condominium living in Sri Lanka, The Colombo Border offers residents an exceptional lifestyle through its strategic location, expansive green spaces, premium amenities, sustainable design, and a strong sense of community. The development has earned the confidence of homeowners and investors alike. With Tower Cosmos now completely sold out with limited two and three BR apartments are available starting from Rupees 48M upwards, the project reflects The Colombo Border’s outstanding market appeal and long-term investment potential. The Colombo Border presents an ideal opportunity for existing homeowners looking to expand their investment portfolio, as well as new buyers seeking a future-ready home in one of Colombo's fastest-growing residential destinations.
Commenting on the milestone, Sandamini Perera, Chairperson of Prime Lands Residencies PLC said, “The completion of the superstructures across all three towers represents another important achievement for the Group and for the wider development of the project.” She noted that maintaining this pace of construction, without compromising on quality, reflected the Group's consistent commitment to delivering its projects on schedule, adding, “The trust placed in the Prime brand by buyers is valued at every stage of the project. It represents an investment in which the company will continue to honor with quality engineering and construction excellence as The Colombo Border moves into its next phase.”
As The Colombo Border progresses steadily towards completion Prime Lands Residencies PLC continues to demonstrate its unwavering commitment to creating more than just another residential development. Conceived as a landmark lifestyle destination, The Colombo Border reflects the company's vision of shaping the future of urban living through exceptional design, superior construction quality, and enduring value. With Tower Cosmos already sold out, and a strong demand for Towers Brielle and Amaa, the development stands as a testament to the confidence buyers place in Prime Lands Residencies PLC and its ability to deliver transformative communities that redefine Colombo's residential landscape.

11.09.2026

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Groundworth Launches ‘Antara’ - Exclusive Land Release in the Heart of Thalawathugoda

Groundworth (Pvt) Ltd has launched “Antara by Groundworth”, an exclusive land development in the heart of Thalawathugoda, one of Colombo’s most established and sought-after residential suburbs. Located within the belt of Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte and minutes from the Battaramulla administrative hub, Antara offers 12 premium residential plots in a mature, peaceful and well-connected neighbourhood.  
Positioned within an established residential setting, Antara combines the ease of a fully developed address with quick access to schools, healthcare, retail, and key transportation hubs. Given the growing scarcity of land in this area, the development presents a chance to establish a presence in a proven, high-value location. 
Commenting on the launch, Kasun Andrahennadi, Managing Director and Co-Founder of Groundworth Group, stated: “Antara is about acquiring a place in one of Colombo's most established residential areas, where the strength of the surrounding neighbourhood is just as valuable as the land itself. We have created a limited opportunity for customers to build in a mature setting while being close to schools, healthcare, retail, transportation, and Sri Lanka's administrative heart.” 
Antara is located just 1 km from the Battaramulla–Pannipitiya Road, the main arterial road that connects the area, Thalawathugoda Town and Junction. Battaramulla, Parliament, and Colombo's administrative district - a key location within the capital - are all approximately 3 km away and easily accessible. Additionally, the development is surrounded by a range of recreational and daily amenities. Diyasaru Park is approximately 1.7 km from Antara, and Hemas Hospital, Thalawathugoda, is only 1 km away. Keells at Capital Mall is around 1.2 km away, with SPAR, Arpico, and GLOMARK also located nearby. St Nicholas International College and Vidura College are approximately 2 km from the development, offering convenient access to education for families.  
With land sizes starting from 6.5 perches, the development offers the necessary infrastructure for those wishing to build a home in a well-established urban environment, featuring well-developed 22-ft-wide access roads, electricity and pipe-borne water connections, clear deeds, and a peaceful, green, and secure residential setting. Land prices start at LKR 3.3 million per perch.

11.09.2026

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Hayleys Electronics and SolaX Power Take Smart Energy Innovation from Colombo to the Island

Hayleys Electronics Limited, in collaboration with SolaX Power, brought together over 300 industry professionals and stakeholders in Colombo for ‘Unlocking the Power of Tomorrow’, an exclusive knowledge-sharing event focused on the future of intelligent energy solutions.
Held at The Kingsbury Colombo, the event explored advancements in smart inverter technology, hybrid energy storage and intelligent energy management, highlighting how technology is transforming the way energy is generated, stored and managed.
The Colombo event marks the beginning of an islandwide awareness and knowledge-sharing programme by Hayleys Electronics and SolaX Power, which will continue across Sri Lanka in the coming weeks. SolaX Power, Sri Lanka’s No. 1 selling battery and inverter brand, is represented exclusively by Hayleys Electronics as its authorised dealer. The upcoming sessions have been strategically planned across Galle, Negombo, Kurunegala, Jaffna and Trincomalee to extend the programme’s reach beyond Colombo and connect stakeholders across the island with the latest developments in smart energy technologies.
Speaking on the initiative, Hasith Prematillake, Managing Director of Hayleys Fentons, said, “The transition towards smarter energy is about creating systems that are more intelligent, efficient and adaptable. Through our collaboration with SolaX Power, we are bringing global technological expertise closer to Sri Lankan stakeholders and supporting the country’s journey towards a smarter and more sustainable energy future.”
Clyde Gabriel, Chief Operating Officer, Hayleys Electronics Limited, said, “Unlocking the Power of Tomorrow reflects our commitment to creating greater awareness of the technologies shaping the next generation of energy solutions. Through direct knowledge-sharing with SolaX Power’s global team, we aim to equip industry professionals with insights into smarter energy technologies and strengthen access to globally recognised solutions in Sri Lanka.”
The programme will continue with sessions at Jetwing Lighthouse, Galle on 5 September; Seedüwa Ramsis, Negombo on 8 September; The Epitome Hotel, Kurunegala on 11 September; Jetwing Jaffna on 15 September; and Coral Bay Hotel, Trincomalee on 18 September.

09.09.2026

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Port City Colombo Strengthens Gulf Investment Ties at ‘Sri Lanka Beyond Your Dreams’ in Dubai

Port City Colombo participated as Platinum Sponsor at the second edition of Sri Lanka Beyond Your Dreams, a landmark diplomatic and investment engagement hosted by the Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Dubai and the Northern Emirates at the Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City on 2nd September 2026. The evening brought together over 400 senior UAE-based business leaders, investors, diplomats, and institutional stakeholders alongside Sri Lanka's most senior government representatives.
The event was graced by H.E. Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Foreign Trade of the United Arab Emirates, as Guest of Honour and Hon. Vijitha Herath, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism of Sri Lanka.
The event was further elevated by the presence of a high-level Sri Lankan government delegation, underscoring the Government of Sri Lanka's strong commitment to deepening economic diplomacy with the UAE. The delegation included Mr. G. Pradeep Saputhanthri, Secretary to the Prime Minister; Mr. Duminda Hulangamuwa, Chairman of the Board of Investment of Sri Lanka; Mr. Mangala Wijesinghe, Chairman of the Export Development Board; and Mr. Somasena Mahadiulwela, Director General of Commerce.
H.E. Prof. Arusha Cooray, Ambassador of Sri Lanka to the United Arab Emirates, acknowledged and appreciated the tireless efforts of the Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Dubai in organising and executing an event of this magnitude and prestige, underscoring the significance of the evening as a platform for deepening the bilateral economic relationship between Sri Lanka and the UAE.
Delivering the keynote address, Minister Herath reaffirmed the centuries-old relationship between Sri Lanka and the Arab region, emphasising the UAE's vital role as a key economic partner. He underscored the critical importance of finalising a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with the UAE, which he noted would establish a robust framework to elevate trade, investment, and bilateral economic cooperation to new heights, and affirmed that Sri Lanka is open and ready for business as a reliable partner for Gulf investments.
Pointing to the practical vehicle through which the deepening UAE-Sri Lanka partnership can be realised, Minister Herath noted: “As a SEZ with a dedicated legal and regulatory framework and competitive incentives, Port City Colombo is where Sri Lanka’s economic mission becomes a physical reality. For UAE businesses and investors, PCC offers a modern and internationally designed platform and a natural gateway to South Asia’s growth, while keeping you connected to the opportunities and strengths of the Gulf.”
H.E. Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, addressing the gathering as Guest of Honour, highlighted Sri Lanka's growing relevance to UAE investors. “Sri Lanka offers considerable opportunities for our investment community, which continues to seek long-term, high-impact projects in growing economies. From immediate reconstruction needs to the immense potential of its logistics, technology, and tourism sectors, Sri Lanka stands out as one of the most appealing destinations for UAE capital,” he said.
Port City Colombo's participation as Platinum Sponsor reflected its role as one of Sri Lanka's primary investment propositions to the GCC region. Mr. Harsha Amarasekera PC, Chairman of the Colombo Port City Economic Commission, addressed attendees on the regulatory framework and investment proposition underpinning the SEZ. “Port City Colombo is not simply a development project. It is Sri Lanka's gateway for international investment and a strategic bridge between the GCC and South Asia," he said. “At a time when Gulf investors are increasingly seeking diversified, resilient, and globally connected growth platforms, Port City Colombo offers a compelling proposition: a modern Special Economic Zone with an internationally benchmarked regulatory framework, a trusted and neutral business environment, and direct access to one of the world's fastest-growing regions.” He further noted that for GCC businesses, Port City Colombo serves as a complementary extension of their regional operations, enabling capital, enterprise, talent, and innovation to flow seamlessly between the Middle East and South Asia.
Mr. Thulci Aluwihare, Deputy Managing Director of CHEC Port City Colombo (Pvt) Ltd, highlighted the progress of the development, with over USD 2 billion in investments secured to date and a target of exceeding USD 4 billion in the coming years. He also outlined the opportunities available within the SEZ for UAE businesses seeking to invest, establish, or expand their presence in South Asia, spanning real estate development, financial services, regional headquarters, and business continuity operations.
Delivering the closing remarks, H.E. Alexi Gunasekera, Consul General of Sri Lanka in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, spoke to Sri Lanka's ongoing transformation: "Sri Lanka is ready to welcome you as a strategic partner in business, trade, and tourism. We invite you to invest, collaborate, and actively participate in shaping a transformative future for Sri Lanka beyond your dreams," he said.
The evening also saw the signing of an investment promotion agreement between the Colombo Port City Economic Commission and CHEC Port City Colombo (Pvt) Ltd. and the Umm Al Quwain Free Trade Zone Authority, formalising a new institutional partnership between the two special economic zones. The agreement was signed by Mr. Johnson Modayil George, General Manager, on behalf of the Umm Al Quwain Free Trade Zone Authority, and by Mr. Revan Wickramasuriya, Director General of the Colombo Port City Economic Commission, and Mr. Thulci Aluwihare, Deputy Managing Director of CHEC Port City Colombo (Pvt) Ltd., on behalf of Port City Colombo.
The first formal partnership of its kind between Port City Colombo and a UAE free zone authority, the partnership creates a direct and institutionally supported route into South Asia's most internationally enabled business platform for UAE-based businesses; for Port City Colombo's growing community of registered businesses, it opens structured access to the UAE's well-established free zone ecosystem

09.09.2026

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A World of Privileges, Just a Visa Card Away: Redefining Premium Experiences for Sri Lankan Consumers

A World of Privileges, Just a Visa Card Away: Redefining Premium Experiences for Sri Lankan Consumers

The way Sri Lankan consumers define premium living is evolving. Today, affluent consumers are increasingly looking beyond traditional measures of success and placing greater value on experiences that create lasting memories, personalized services, and greater convenience.

Whether it is travelling to new destinations, enjoying exceptional hospitality, discovering unique dining experiences or accessing lifestyle benefits that complement their everyday lives, consumers are seeking experiences that are meaningful and tailored to their preferences.

Responding to this changing lifestyle landscape, Sampath Bank PLC, in partnership with Visa, has introduced the Sampath Bank Private Banking Visa Infinite Privilege Credit Card, bringing a new premium lifestyle proposition to Sri Lanka.

Designed for Sri Lanka’s affluent consumers, Visa Infinite Privilege, one of the highest-tier Visa credit card, goes beyond everyday payments by offering access to curated benefits across travel, hospitality, dining, leisure and lifestyle experiences - meeting consumers where they are today, with privileges that support a more bespoke way of living, travelling and experiencing the world.

A More Rewarding Way to Travel the World

For many Sri Lankan consumers, travel has become an important part of modern lifestyle, with greater interest in discovering new places while enjoying comfort, convenience and personalized experiences.

Through Visa Infinite Privilege, cardholders can access premium travel and hospitality benefits designed to make their journeys more rewarding.

• Love a stay with extras: ALL Accor+ Explorer brings hotel privileges, dining benefits and special offers across Accor’s hospitality network.
• Seamless journeys over travel hassles: Visa Infinite Privilege provides expedited airport processing, priority access, and elevated travel benefits tailored for affluent travelers
• Prefer being recognized on arrival: Banyan Group’s with Banyan programme adds enhanced recognition and privileges for a more personal hospitality experience.
• Personalized itineraries over copy-paste holidays: Essentialist offers curated travel recommendations and experiences shaped around individual preferences.

 

Dining That Goes Beyond the Plate

Dining has become an important part of how consumers celebrate occasions, connect with others and discover new experiences.

With specially created Infinite Taste | Beyond The Menu programme for the refreshed Visa Infinite portfolio, Visa Infinite Privilege cardholders get access to a curated dining proposition that goes beyond restaurant reservations, truly taking them beyond the menu and bringing them closer to chef-led concepts, exclusive tables and thoughtfully designed culinary experiences.

Built for consumers who see dining as a way to explore, celebrate and connect, the proposition turns exceptional meals into memorable moments shaped around access, craft and discovery.

Privilege, Built into Everyday Living

Modern consumers increasingly value access that makes everyday life feel more rewarding and  personal - from the brands they engage with to the leisure experiences they choose.

Through Harrods Rewards Gold Tier, Visa Infinite Privilege cardholders can access rewards and selected benefits from one of the world’s most recognized retail destinations, adding a touch of global refinement to their lifestyle choices.

For those who enjoy leisure with a sense of occasion, the Visa Golf Programme offers access to premium golfing benefits, bringing together sport, networking and relaxation as part of a more curated way of living. Extending this focus on exclusive sporting experiences, Visa Infinite Privilege also gives cardholders two complimentary padel game sessions annually, opening access to one of the world’s fastest-growing premium sports.

Premium living today is about more than ownership. It is about access, convenience and experiences that add value to everyday life.

The Sampath Bank Private Banking Visa Infinite Privilege Credit Card reflects this changing mindset by bringing together a range of carefully curated benefits designed around the evolving expectations of Sri Lankan consumers.

By combining Sampath Bank’s Private Banking expertise with Visa’s premium lifestyle ecosystem, the proposition enables cardholders to experience more from their everyday spending, whether they are travelling, dining, relaxing or exploring new experiences.

For Sri Lankan consumers looking for a more rewarding way to access premium experiences, a world of privileges is now just a Visa card away.

09.09.2026

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Maliban Group Shines with Two Gold Dragons Among Seven Accolades at Dragons of Sri Lanka 2026

The Maliban Group of Companies has been recognised for creative excellence and impactful brand communication at the Dragons of Sri Lanka 2026 Awards, securing an impressive tally of two Gold Dragons, one Silver Dragon, two Bronze Dragons, and two Black Dragons across multiple categories.
The recognition highlights the Group’s continued commitment to developing purposeful campaigns that connect with consumers through creativity, innovation, and strategic execution. The awarded campaigns spanned experiential marketing, sustainability, media, content creation, brand trials, sales generation, and brand activation and awareness, reflecting the Group’s ability to create meaningful brand experiences across its diverse business categories.
The Dragons of Sri Lanka Awards represent one of the country’s most respected platforms recognising excellence in marketing effectiveness and communication. As an official extension of the Dragons of Asia, the awards are part of a globally recognised network celebrating results-driven marketing excellence since 2000. The Dragons of Asia is positioned alongside leading international marketing effectiveness platforms such as the Cannes Lions, Effie Awards, and IPA Effectiveness Awards, making recognition at the Dragons a significant benchmark for brands and agencies across the region.
For the Maliban Group of Companies, this achievement reflects the strength of campaigns developed through strategic insight, creative excellence, and purposeful brand engagement. The seven recognitions demonstrate the Group’s ability to create impactful communication that builds meaningful connections with consumers.
The “Maliban Chocolate Biscuits. Kids Will Do Anything for This Taste” campaign for Maliban Biscuit Manufactories Sri Lanka received a Gold Dragon in the Brand Activation and/or Awareness category, while “The Superhero That Replaced Child Advertising” campaign for Maliban Dairy & Agri Products Sri Lanka secured a Gold Dragon in the Content Creation category, recognising their ability to create engaging and impactful consumer experiences.
The “HumanTill. A Lived Experience of Giving” campaign for Maliban Biscuit Manufactories Sri Lanka secured a Silver Dragon in the Event or Experiential category and a Bronze Dragon in the Cause, Environment or Sustainability category. The “The One Breath Challenge” campaign received a Bronze Dragon in the Media category and a Black Dragon in the Creative Excellence category, while the “Maliban Kiri Consumer Promo” campaign for Maliban Milk Products Group Sri Lanka received a Black Dragon in the Brand Trial or Sales Generation category.
The achievement reflects the collective efforts of the Maliban Group’s teams and agency partners, whose collaboration transformed creative ideas into campaigns that generated meaningful engagement and impact. The recognition reinforces the Group’s focus on developing communication that is relevant, purposeful, and connected with consumers.
With a legacy spanning more than seven decades, the Maliban Group of Companies continues to combine its heritage with contemporary approaches to creativity, innovation, and brand building. The recognition at Dragons of Sri Lanka 2026 further strengthens the Group’s commitment to creating work that challenges conventions, builds stronger consumer relationships, and delivers meaningful outcomes across its diverse businesses.

09.09.2026

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47th AGM of the Sri Lanka – Japan Business Council of The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce

The Sri Lanka – Japan Business Council (SLJBC) of The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce recently held its 47th AGM, with the Ambassador of Japan and the Patron of the Council, His Excellency Akio ISOMATA, attending  as the Chief Guest.

Addressing the gathering, Ambassador  ISOMATA outlined three priorities for deepening bilateral economic relations: an effective and forward-looking trade and investment policy, the promotion of domestic industrial policy, and expanded investment in renewable energy. He noted that Sri Lanka's ongoing review of its Free Trade Agreement policy would be important in shaping the country's future negotiating landscape. He encouraged Sri Lanka to look Eastward toward Southeast Asia and Japan, proposing that the country adopt an export-oriented industrial model.  The Ambassador welcomed the Government's National Export Development Plan 2026 and National Mineral Policy 2026 as consistent with Japan's vision of connecting Sri Lanka's export-related manufacturing sectors with India's high-growth manufacturing base.

In his address, President Athulla R F Edirisinghe reflected on nearly seven decades of humanitarian and development support extended by Japan to Sri Lanka, and paid tribute to the Chairman of the Sasakawa Peace Foundation Mr. Yohei Sasakawa, for his magnanimity in establishing the Foundation. Reflecting on the history of Japanese investment in the region from the 1970s onward, he observed that Sri Lanka had missed many opportunities to attract  Japanese foreign direct investment. Highlighting the 2025 proposal for a Sri Lanka – Japan Economic Corridor by the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry Japan, he called on Sri Lankan businesses, industry associations, and the wider community to come together in dialogue with the Government to ensure the country does not miss this opportunity as well.

2026/27 Committee: President: Mr. Athulla R F Edirisinghe – Director, Hirohama Ceylon (Pvt) Ltd, Senior Vice President - Mr. Ruwan Waidyaratne – Managing Director, Hayleys Advantis Ltd, Vice – President - Mr. Shamil Mendis – Managing Director, Spear International (Pvt) Ltd, Treasurer - Mr. Rohitha Mendis – Managing Director of Prudential Shipping Lines (Pte) Ltd, Immediate Past President - Mr. Mahen Kariyawasan – Managing Director, Andrew The Travel Company (Pvt) Ltd, representatives from Amano Lanka Engineering (Pvt) Ltd, BOV Capital (Pvt) Ltd, Brandix Apparel (Pvt) Ltd, Heritage Teas (Pvt) Ltd, Kalhari Enterprises (Pvt) Ltd, Lanka Harness (Pvt) Ltd, Dentsu Grant (Pvt) Ltd, MAC Holdings (Pvt) Ltd, and Vidullanka PLC. By invitation: HVA Foods PLC (subsidiary of George Steuart & Co), Spillburg Holdings (Pvt) Ltd, and Vaughan Chemicals (Pvt) Ltd.

08.09.2026

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Thyaga Introduces Greetly, a Smarter Way to Gift Through Greeting Cards

Thyaga has introduced Greetly, a new greeting card gifting solution designed to make everyday gifting more thoughtful, convenient, and useful for both the giver and the receiver.

Greetly brings together two things people already love: the personal touch of a greeting card and the freedom of a Thyaga voucher. Each Greetly card comes with a Thyaga voucher inside, allowing customers to turn a simple greeting into a meaningful gift that the recipient can actually choose and enjoy.

The product was created to solve a common gifting problem. Greeting cards are thoughtful, but often the gesture ends with the message. Traditional gifts, on the other hand, can be difficult to choose, especially when the giver is unsure of what the recipient really wants. Greetly bridges that gap by keeping the emotional value of a card while adding the flexibility of a multi-merchant gift voucher.

Using Greetly is simple. Customers can purchase a Greetly card, scan the QR code on the packaging, top up the Thyaga voucher with their preferred amount, write a personal message, and gift it to someone special. The recipient can then redeem the voucher across Thyaga’s wide merchant network, giving them the freedom to choose from multiple brands and categories.

This makes Greetly suitable for a wide range of occasions including birthdays, thank-you moments, congratulations, farewells, festive gifting, last-minute gifting, and everyday appreciation. It also gives customers a practical solution when they want to gift something more meaningful than a card, but more flexible than a fixed product.

A key part of Greetly’s value is convenience. By making the product available through retail locations and selected online channels, Thyaga is making smart gifting easier to access during everyday shopping moments. Customers no longer need to plan far ahead or visit multiple places to arrange a thoughtful gift. They can simply pick up a Greetly card, top it up, and gift it with ease.

Greetly is currently available at selected outlets and channels including SPAR Supermarket, Jeya Book Centre, The Third Place @ Trace Expert City, Simplytek Colpetty, Nisaco Mall, Uber Eats, and Thyaga Head Office, Jawatta.

07.09.2026

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ProFood ProPack & AgBiz 2026 Attracts Nearly 30,000 Visitors

By Vipula Amarasinghe

The 23rd edition of ProFood ProPack & AgBiz 2026, Sri Lanka’s leading exhibition covering the food processing, packaging and agriculture sectors, concluded successfully at the Sirimavo Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH), attracting nearly 30,000 visitors.
Held from August 21 over three days, the exhibition brought together businesses, entrepreneurs, industry professionals, academics and consumers from Sri Lanka and overseas, providing opportunities to explore new products and technologies, exchange knowledge, develop partnerships and identify new business opportunities across the food and agriculture value chain.
Organised by the Sri Lanka Food Processors Association (SLFPA) in collaboration with Lanka Exhibition & Conference Services (Pvt) Ltd (LECS), this year’s exhibition occupied six halls and featured nearly 450 stalls. Around 30 international exhibitors also participated, adding an international dimension to the event.
The opening ceremony was attended by Minister of Industries and Entrepreneurship Development Sunil Handunnetthi and Secretary to the Ministry Thilaka Jayasudara. The event was endorsed by the Ministry of Industries.
A major attraction was the Innovation Pavilion, where 14 government and private-sector universities presented research, innovations and technology solutions relevant to the food and related industries.
The Institute of Food Science and Technology Sri Lanka (IFSTSL) also conducted an industry seminar and activities involving university undergraduates, aimed at strengthening cooperation between academia and industry and encouraging young people to pursue careers in food science and technology.
The SLFPA introduced its new Career Connect initiative during the exhibition to link employers with interns, graduates and young professionals seeking opportunities in the food-processing sector.
SLFPA President Aruna Senanayake said the future of food processing depended on having people with the right skills connected to the right opportunities. The Career Connect platform was officially launched by Minister Sunil Handunnetthi.
The exhibition also placed emphasis on small and medium-sized enterprises through an SME Pavilion organised by the Ministry of Industries. The pavilion provided emerging businesses with greater exposure and opportunities to connect with customers and industry stakeholders.
Meanwhile, the Knowledge Circle Industry Seminar organised by SLFPA provided participants with insights from industry professionals. The Knowledge Hub was also expanded this year to include an Industry Help Desk, offering guidance to new entrepreneurs seeking information on business and industry opportunities.
The exhibition featured a Home Cooking Challenge, allowing home cooks to prepare creative dishes using products showcased by exhibitors. The initiative added a consumer-oriented element to the event while demonstrating the versatility of participating products and brands.
Following strong visitor attendance and positive feedback from exhibitors, the organisers have announced plans to expand the venue for next year’s exhibition.
For more than 23 years, ProFood ProPack & AgBiz has served as a major platform for Sri Lanka’s food, beverage, processing, packaging and agriculture industries, supporting innovation, entrepreneurship, business development and industry collaboration.
The organisers credited the success of the 2026 exhibition to the participation and support of exhibitors, sponsors, government institutions, universities, professional bodies, industry partners, media organisations and visitors.
The event was supported by leading companies including Cargills Ceylon PLC, Multivac Laraon India (Pvt) Ltd, Maliban Biscuit Manufactories (Pvt) Ltd, Nikini Automation Systems and Pakona Engineers India (Pvt) Ltd as Platinum Sponsors, while Aussee Oats Milling (Pvt) Ltd, Freelan Enterprises (Pvt) Ltd and Nestlé Lanka Ltd supported the event as Gold Sponsors.

07.09.2026

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Hayleys Agriculture Launches Grain & Food Processing Machinery Business at ProFood, ProPack & AgBiz 2026

Hayleys Agriculture Holdings Limited launched its new Hayleys Grain & Food Processing Machinery business at ProFood, ProPack & AgBiz 2026, held from 21st  to 23rd  August 2026 at the BMICH, Colombo, marking a significant expansion of its portfolio into specialised machinery and technology solutions for Sri Lanka’s grain and food processing industries.

Hayleys Agriculture used the ProFood, ProPack & AgBiz 2026 platform to introduce the new business to industry stakeholders, alongside a range of advanced solutions designed to support greater efficiency, quality, hygiene and food safety across grain and food processing operations.
The Hayleys Grain & Food Processing Machinery portfolio includes grain drying and storage systems, high-quality rice milling machinery, specialised food processing equipment, food metal detection systems, hygiene solutions, online process control systems and other processing technologies designed to meet the evolving requirements of the Food and Beverage Industry.

The launch represents a further step in Hayleys Agriculture’s evolution from its strong foundations in agricultural inputs towards becoming a broader, solutions-led organisation across the agricultural and food value chains, with an increasing focus on mechanisation, technology and value addition.
Another key highlight of the exhibition was the unveiling of the revamped Govi Aruna range from Sunfrost (Pvt) Ltd, alongside Island Magic Peanut Spread. Featuring a refreshed visual identity and brand proposition, the Govi Aruna range continues to build relevance around convenient, quality products suited to everyday Sri Lankan cooking.

Visitors were able to experience the versatility of the portfolio through live tasting sessions and interactive chef demonstrations, featuring familiar Sri Lankan favourites alongside contemporary food creations. The activation provided consumers with a first-hand understanding of the products, ingredients and their different applications.

Hayleys Agriculture also highlighted its growing focus on agricultural mechanisation and precision technology through an immersive agricultural drone experience. Visitors were introduced to the role of drone technology in modern farming through an interactive AR-based gaming experience, while the Agri Equipment segment showcased agricultural drones and other mechanisation solutions aimed at improving efficiency, productivity and precision across farming operations.

The exhibition further demonstrated the breadth of Hayleys Agriculture’s presence across Agri Equipment, Grain & Food Processing Machinery, Animal Health, Environmental Management Services, Crop Protection and Planting Materials, Fertilisers and Value-Added Agricultural Produce, reflecting the company’s expanding role across the wider agricultural ecosystem.

Commenting on the company’s participation, Jayanthi Dharmasena, Managing Director of Hayleys Agriculture Holdings Limited, said:

“Hayleys Agriculture has built its foundation by supporting farmers and the wider agricultural sector with quality inputs, expertise and solutions. Today, we are broadening that role through greater investment in mechanisation, technology and value-added solutions that respond to the evolving needs of the industry.
The launch of Hayleys Grain & Food Processing Machinery marks an important step in this journey, enabling us to bring high-quality machinery and technology solutions to Sri Lanka’s grain and food processing industries. At the same time, the revamped Govi Aruna range reflects our continued focus on building relevant, value-added food propositions for today’s consumer.

Our participation at ProFood, ProPack & AgBiz 2026 reflects our commitment to connecting innovation with practical industry needs and creating greater value across the agricultural and food value chains.”
With the introduction of Hayleys Grain & Food Processing Machinery, together with continued investments in agricultural mechanisation, technology and value-added food solutions, Hayleys Agriculture is further strengthening its position as an integrated solutions provider across Sri Lanka’s agricultural and food value chains, supporting greater productivity, efficiency and long-term industry growth.

07.09.2026

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Sri Lanka Economic and Investment Summit 2026 to Examine How Sri Lanka Can Build a More Resilient Economy for the Future

 

As Sri Lanka moves beyond economic stabilisation, attention is increasingly turning to how the country can maintain its growth momentum while preparing for the challenges ahead. This will be among the key questions at the Sri Lanka Economic & Investment Summit 2026 (SLEIS 2026), organised by The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce on 12-13 October, where policymakers, business leaders and international experts will examine how Sri Lanka can build greater resilience while continuing to pursue growth and investment.
Recent economic and global disruptions have highlighted the importance of strengthening the foundations of the economy, from macroeconomic stability and institutions to business resilience and the ability to respond to changing conditions. Titled “Beyond Crisis Management: Building a Shock-Resilient Sri Lankan Economy,” the session will examine the vulnerabilities exposed by recent economic and external shocks and consider what needs to be put in place to ensure that future disruptions do not repeatedly set back economic progress.
Ms. Lilia Aleksanyan, Senior Country Economist for Sri Lanka – Asian Development Bank, will deliver the keynote address at the session, and will be joined at a panel discussion by Dr. Chandranath Amarasekara, Senior Deputy Governor – Central Bank of Sri Lanka, Ms. Sabrina Esufally, Executive Director – Hemas Holdings PLC, and  Dr. Roshan Perera, Consultant – Centre for Poverty Analysis and Former Director – Central Bank of Sri Lanka. The discussion will be moderated by  Mr. Dhananath Fernando, Chief Executive Officer -Advocata Institute.
The session will consider how Sri Lanka can strengthen macroeconomic stability, safeguard livelihoods and improve the resilience of businesses and key economic institutions. It will also examine the role of international partnerships, investment, innovation and business leadership in building an economy that can adapt to changing conditions without losing sight of longer-term development goals.
Rather than focusing only on how the country responds when the next crisis arrives, the discussion will consider what needs to be put in place beforehand, including stronger institutions, sound economic policies, greater diversification, resilient businesses and the capacity to respond quickly when external or domestic pressures emerge.
The session will form part of the second day of SLEIS 2026, held under the theme “Positioning Sri Lanka in a Changing Global Economy: Resilience, Reform, and the Future of Economic Policy.”
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., 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 are now open at https://sleis.chamber.lk/. For more information, contact Alikie on 011 558 8805 (alikie@chamber.lk) or Shanuka on 0701082541 (events.division@chamber.lk).

07.09.2026

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Home Lands Completes 60% Piling Work of ‘Central Park Boulevard Port City Colombo’ in Record Time

Market Leader Home Lands has announced that Central Park Boulevard Port City Colombo has reached a significant construction milestone, with 60% of its piling work now officially completed, just under three months after the project's launch, placing its rate of progress 10% ahead of plan. With construction progressing ahead of target, the development's piling programme is advancing strongly, reinforcing Home Lands' commitment to timely delivery and its ability to execute large-scale developments through sound planning, financial strength, and a fully integrated business model.

A total of 192 piles are being constructed as part of the development, with 9 piling machines mobilised and three major contractors: Access Engineering PLC, Sanken Construction’s San Piling (Pvt) Ltd., and D P Jayasinghe Piling Company (Pvt) Ltd., currently engaged in the works. Supported by the contractors' extensive fleets and expertise in piling, the scale of operations reflects the pace and efficiency with which construction is progressing at the site.

Central Park Boulevard Port City Colombo represents a landmark investment in Sri Lanka's real estate sector, at Port City Colombo. The project investment of USD 150 million by Home Lands, with the total project value estimated at over USD 300 million, is the largest real estate investment by a single Sri Lankan developer, expected to attract large foreign currency inflows into Sri Lanka by way of global marketing efforts targeting a global clientele. Located in the prestigious Central Park District, the ultra-luxury twin-tower development introduces the branded global lifestyle concept to Sri Lanka and offers residents a premium living environment overlooking nearly 40 acres of Central Park and the Indian Ocean.

For investors, Home Lands' track record provides further confidence in its ability to deliver. As Sri Lanka's number one, most trusted, and most innovative real estate brand, Home Lands has been recognised as Best Developer – Sri Lanka at the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards in 2021, 2024, and 2025, and became Sri Lanka's only real estate Superbrand in 2025. With more than 5,000 residences sold, over 3,750 homes delivered with 400 more units ready to deliver within this year, and over 2,850 units currently under construction, Home Lands brings more than two decades of experience, scale, financial strength, and proven delivery capability to Central Park Boulevard Port City Colombo.
“Construction progress of Central Park Boulevard Port City Colombo is well underway, with 60% of the piling work completed already” said Mr. Nalin Herath, Chairman of Home Lands Group of Companies. “Our vision to bring a truly world class lifestyle development to Port City Colombo takes shape with the steady construction progress of Central Park Boulevard Port City Colombo”

Home Lands has also reinforced its long-term confidence in Port City Colombo through the acquisition of its second land parcel within the Central Park District, shortly after securing its first. The second land parcel acquired, spanning over 3 acres in extent, is similar in size and located adjacent to the land on which Central Park Boulevard Port City Colombo is being constructed. The acquisition further demonstrates the company's financial strength and continued commitment to investing in Sri Lanka’s future driven by the potential of Port City Colombo.

With piling for Central Park Boulevard now 60% complete and construction progressing ahead of target, Home Lands once again reinforces its commitment to delivering landmark developments on schedule while creating lasting value for homeowners and investors, further strengthening its position as the developer of choice for those seeking the best in lifestyle choices and high returns.

07.09.2026

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DIMO Expands Bosch Diesel Service Network with New Kurunegala Facility

DIMO has expanded its specialized after-sales network with the opening of a new DIMO Diesel Lab branch in Kurunegala, bringing fuel injection pump repair and diagnostic services of the Bosch diesel service network closer to customers in the North Western Province and surrounding regions.

Using Bosch diagnostic equipment, genuine spare parts, and internationally recognized repair standards, the new facility operates as part of Bosch Diesel Service Workshop network, providing diesel injection pump repairs and diesel injector repairs. The workshop brings together trained technicians who deliver accurate diagnostics and reliable repair solutions for diesel-powered vehicles and equipment.

Commenting on the expansion, Mr. Mahesh Karunaratne, Chief Operating Officer - Automotive Engineering Solutions of DIMO, said, "A vital aspect of the value we provide to our customers is after-sales service. The DIMO Diesel Lab's opening in Kurunegala broadens our nationwide service network and provides customers in this significant economic region with quicker access to specialized diesel fuel injection knowledge supported by Bosch’s global standards. By making world-class diesel fuel pump repair solutions more accessible, we are helping customers keep their operations moving efficiently while fuelling the dreams and aspirations of communities and businesses that depend on reliable transport, agriculture, and industrial machinery."

Mr. Sandeep Kamat, Managing Director of Bosch Sri Lanka and Country Manager for Nepal, Bhutan, and Maldives, added, "Bosch’s global diesel servicing standards are becoming more widely available throughout Sri Lanka because of our partnership with DIMO. In order to provide high-quality repairs that enhance the performance, reliability, and longevity of diesel fuel injection systems, the new Kurunegala workshop combines cutting-edge diagnostic technology, genuine Bosch parts, and experienced technical expertise.”

The new facility was officially inaugurated in the presence of Mr. Gahanath Pandithage, Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of DIMO, together with representatives from Bosch and members of DIMO's management and staff. The Kurunegala branch is ideally situated to service a high concentration of commercial vehicles, agricultural machinery, construction equipment, and industrial fleets, given its location within one of Sri Lanka's major commercial and transportation hubs. The new facility reduces travel time, minimizes equipment downtime, and increases operational efficiency by offering specialized diesel repair services closer to customers in the region.

The Kurunegala branch's opening is another step in DIMO's continuous efforts to expand its nationwide after-sales network, helping customers maintain the optimal performance of their diesel-powered vehicles and equipment while increasing accessibility to fuel injection pump repair services under the Bosch Diesel Service network. Backed by 85+ years of Authority in Automotive Excellence, this expansion reflects DIMO's ongoing commitment to delivering world-class after-sales solutions closer to customers across Sri Lanka and fuelling dreams and aspirations of the communities it serves.

07.09.2026

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Groundworth Unveils Exclusive Residential Land Project Near Kottawa Expressway

Groundworth (Pvt) Ltd has entered the premium residential land market around Kottawa with the launch of “The Highway by Groundworth”, an exclusive 12-plot development located just one kilometre from the Kottawa Expressway Interchange.
The new project has been positioned as a residential opportunity for buyers seeking easy access to Colombo and other major destinations while remaining close to schools, healthcare, public transport and everyday amenities.
Located within a rapidly developing residential corridor, The Highway provides convenient connectivity to the Southern Expressway (E01) and Outer Circular Expressway (E02), linking residents with destinations including Colombo, Galle, Matara, Kadawatha and Katunayake.
The project's location also provides access to High Level Road (A4), offering an alternative connection between Pannipitiya and Colombo.
Kasun Andrahennadi, Managing Director and Co-Founder of Groundworth Group, said connectivity was central to the concept behind the development.
“We wanted to create an opportunity where the location does much of the work in defining the value of the property. The Highway is built around one of the strongest practical advantages a property can offer: connectivity,” he said.
According to Andrahennadi, the proximity to the Kottawa Expressway Interchange allows residents to reach key destinations efficiently while retaining access to essential facilities near their homes.
The development is approximately two kilometres from the Makumbura Multimodal Transport Hub and around 2.5 kilometres from Kottawa Town and Junction. Supermarkets, banks, pharmacies, restaurants and other services are also located within the surrounding area, with Softlogic GLOMARK approximately 1.5 kilometres away.
The residential project is also situated close to several schools, including Kottawa Dharmapala Maha Vidyalaya, Ananda College Kottawa, Leeds International and Louver College, which are within approximately two to three kilometres. Homagama Base Hospital is located around 2.5 kilometres from the development.
With only 12 plots available, The Highway has been designed as a limited residential development rather than a large-scale land scheme. Plot sizes begin at six perches, with the project offering clear deeds, 22-foot road frontage, pipe-borne water and electricity connections.
Groundworth said the development is aimed particularly at buyers planning to construct high-end homes in a location where transport connectivity and access to urban facilities are key advantages.
Land prices at The Highway start from LKR 2.1 million per perch.
The launch comes at a time when accessibility to expressways and major transport hubs continues to be an important consideration for residential property buyers, particularly in suburban areas surrounding Colombo.
Groundworth has now opened The Highway for site visits, with prospective buyers able to inspect the location and available plots. The company said only a limited number of plots remain available.

06.09.2026

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SLIM Honours New Generation of Marketing Professionals at 2026 Certification Ceremony

By Vipula Amarasinghe

The Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM) has recognised a new generation of marketing professionals, celebrating the successful completion of a range of professional qualifications at its 2026 Certification Ceremony held at the BMICH in Colombo on August 2.
The ceremony brought together students who completed professional programmes offered by SLIM, including the Professional Certified Marketer (PCM) qualifications in English, Sinhala and Tamil, Certified Digital Marketer (CDM), Pharmaceutical Marketing and BPE programmes.
Deputy Chairman of Hemas Holdings PLC Murtaza Esufally and Director and CEO of Brandix Group Asanka Wimalaratna attended the event as Chief Guests, while former SLIM Presidents Chinthaka Perera and Gayan Perera participated as Guests of Honour.
Addressing the gathering, SLIM President Enoch Perera outlined the institute’s ambition to strengthen its position in the international marketing education arena.
“Our vision is ‘From Local Strength to Global Influence.’ We are committed to positioning SLIM as an internationally recognised marketing institute and creating greater opportunities for every learner,” he said.
Esufally urged the newly qualified professionals to look beyond traditional approaches to marketing and focus on understanding consumers and creating meaningful solutions.
He noted that effective marketers should not merely focus on selling products or building brands, but should understand people, address real-world challenges and contribute to positive change.
He also highlighted the importance of continuous learning and adaptability as artificial intelligence and other technologies reshape the business environment, while stressing that professional growth must remain grounded in integrity.
SLIM Vice President – Education & Research Manthika Ranasinghe emphasised the importance of observation and continuous learning in developing successful marketing professionals.
“Every human insight matters, because every marketing decision ultimately connects with people,” he said.
Meanwhile, SLIM Vice President – Events & Sustainability Rajiv David reminded awardees that receiving their qualifications should be viewed as the beginning of their professional journey rather than its conclusion.
“The reward for your hard work and perseverance is also the beginning of a lifelong journey of learning and leadership,” he said.
Brandix Group Director and CEO Asanka Wimalaratna similarly encouraged the graduates to continue developing their knowledge and skills beyond their formal qualifications.
“The knowledge and skills you have gained will provide a strong foundation, but lasting success belongs to those who embrace continuous learning and personal growth,” he said.
SLIM CEO Chamil Wickramasinghe said the rapidly changing business environment would create both new challenges and opportunities for the newly qualified marketers.
He expressed confidence that the knowledge, skills and values acquired through their SLIM programmes would help them successfully navigate the evolving business landscape.
The ceremony also recognised high-performing students through Best Performance Medals and Subject Prizes, acknowledging excellence across the various programmes.
The event concluded with an after-party that provided an opportunity for graduates, industry leaders, academics and SLIM representatives to network and celebrate the achievements of the latest group of certified marketing professionals.

06.09.2026

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Sampath Bank and Visa Unveil New Premium Credit Card Targeting Sri Lanka’s Affluent Consumers

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Sampath Bank PLC, in partnership with Visa, has introduced the Sampath Bank Private Banking Visa Infinite Privilege Credit Card, bringing a new range of premium travel, dining, hospitality and lifestyle benefits to Sri Lankan consumers.
The launch comes amid a shift in the way affluent consumers view premium living, with greater emphasis being placed on experiences, convenience, personalised services and exclusive access rather than ownership alone.
The new Visa Infinite Privilege card is positioned as a premium lifestyle proposition designed to give cardholders access to a curated portfolio of international and local experiences across travel, hospitality, dining, leisure and retail.
For frequent travellers, the card provides access to a range of benefits intended to make journeys more convenient and rewarding. These include privileges through ALL Accor+ Explorer, offering hotel and dining benefits across Accor’s global hospitality network.
Cardholders can also access enhanced travel services, including expedited airport processing and priority-related benefits, while Banyan Group’s “with Banyan” programme provides additional recognition and privileges at participating properties.
The card’s travel proposition also includes access to Essentialist, which provides curated recommendations and experiences based on individual travel preferences, offering an alternative to conventional, standardised holiday planning.
Dining is another key component of the new offering. Through Visa’s Infinite Taste | Beyond The Menu programme, cardholders can gain access to curated culinary experiences extending beyond conventional restaurant dining.
The programme is designed around exclusive tables, chef-led concepts and distinctive culinary experiences, reflecting the growing importance of food and dining as part of modern lifestyle and social experiences.
Beyond travel and dining, the Sampath Bank Private Banking Visa Infinite Privilege Credit Card extends its benefits into retail, sport and leisure.
Through the Harrods Rewards Gold Tier, cardholders can access selected rewards and benefits associated with the renowned global luxury retail destination.
Golf enthusiasts are also catered for through the Visa Golf Programme, which provides premium golfing benefits combining sport, leisure and networking. In addition, cardholders receive two complimentary padel game sessions each year, giving them access to a rapidly growing international sport.
The introduction of the card represents a collaboration between Sampath Bank’s private banking capabilities and Visa’s global premium payments and lifestyle ecosystem.
The proposition reflects a broader transformation in consumer expectations, particularly among affluent customers who increasingly value access, personalisation and convenience as important elements of premium living.
Rather than focusing solely on purchasing power, the new card seeks to connect everyday spending with experiences across travel, hospitality, dining, leisure and lifestyle.
For Sampath Bank, the partnership with Visa provides an opportunity to strengthen its premium banking proposition while responding to changing expectations among Sri Lanka’s high-value consumer segment.
With a portfolio spanning international travel privileges, curated dining experiences, luxury retail benefits and premium leisure opportunities, the Sampath Bank Private Banking Visa Infinite Privilege Credit Card aims to position premium payments as a gateway to a broader lifestyle ecosystem.

05.09.2026

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SLT-MOBITEL Strengthens Corporate Standing with Three National Business Excellence Awards

By Vipula Amarasainghe

SLT-MOBITEL has strengthened its position as a leading technology and digital services group in Sri Lanka after securing three honours at the National Business Excellence Awards 2026, highlighting achievements across telecommunications, infrastructure and digital healthcare.
At the awards ceremony held recently at Shangri-La Colombo, Sri Lanka Telecom PLC (SLT PLC) received two Runner-up awards, while its subsidiary eChannelling PLC secured a Gold Award.
SLT PLC was recognised as Runner-up in the Infrastructure & Utilities Sector Category and also received a Runner-up award under the Excellence in Performance Management Criteria. The accolades recognise the company's approach to operational performance, strategic management, innovation and the development of a high-performance organisational culture.
Meanwhile, eChannelling PLC received the Gold Award in the ICT Services Sector Category, reflecting its contribution to the expansion of technology-enabled healthcare services in Sri Lanka.
The recognition comes as eChannelling continues to use digital technology to improve access to healthcare services and streamline interactions between patients and healthcare providers. Its performance demonstrates the growing role of digital platforms in transforming the delivery of healthcare services and creating greater convenience for users.
Together, the three awards highlight the diverse capabilities of the SLT-MOBITEL group, extending beyond traditional telecommunications into infrastructure, information and communication technology and digital solutions.
The achievements also come as SLT-MOBITEL continues its broader transformation towards becoming a technology and digital solutions provider. The group has been placing greater emphasis on innovation, operational efficiency and the creation of sustainable value for customers and other stakeholders.
The National Business Excellence Awards are organised by the National Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka and are based on a comprehensive assessment process. Organisations are evaluated on areas including leadership, strategy, governance, operational performance, sustainability and overall business excellence.
The evaluation involves a multi-stage assessment by an independent Technical and Financial Evaluation Committee, followed by a final review by an independent judging panel.
For SLT-MOBITEL, the latest recognition provides an indication of progress in strengthening internal performance while expanding its contribution to Sri Lanka's digital economy.
The awards also underline the increasing importance of performance management and innovation as companies navigate a business environment in which technology is becoming central to customer engagement, service delivery and long-term competitiveness.
The Gold Award for eChannelling further illustrates how digital services can create new opportunities beyond conventional business sectors, particularly in areas such as healthcare where technology can improve accessibility and efficiency.
With its telecommunications infrastructure, digital platforms and technology-driven services, SLT-MOBITEL is positioning its businesses to play a broader role in Sri Lanka's digital transformation.
The three awards therefore represent not only recognition of individual business achievements, but also a reflection of the group's continuing shift towards a more diversified technology-led business model.

05.09.2026

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Emirates SkyCargo Expands Wildlife Protection Role Through Specialist K9 Transport Mission

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Emirates SkyCargo has strengthened its role in supporting global wildlife conservation after successfully transporting two specialist conservation dogs from the United Kingdom to Zimbabwe, where they have now begun frontline training to combat wildlife poaching.
The Belgian Malinois dogs, Vega and Kuda, were flown from London to Harare via Dubai in partnership with UK-based charity Dogs 4 Wildlife. The animals have since been deployed at Matusadona National Park, where they form part of the park’s first specialist conservation K9 team.
The operation highlights the growing role of specialised air cargo services in supporting conservation programmes that depend on the safe and reliable movement of trained animals across international borders.
Since arriving in Zimbabwe, Vega and Kuda have completed more than 185 hours of practical training with six specialist K9 handlers. During their first month, the dogs participated in more than 60 human-scent tracking exercises and have demonstrated their ability to track activity associated with illegal poaching.
The initial phase of the programme has also resulted in the introduction of welfare and Standard Operating Protocols for the dogs, establishing a structured framework for the long-term operation of the conservation K9 unit.
For Emirates SkyCargo, the initiative forms part of a wider strategy focused on responsible logistics and the protection of wildlife. The carrier has adopted a zero-tolerance policy towards illegal wildlife trafficking and has prohibited the transportation of hunting trophies.
Badr Abbas, Divisional Senior Vice President of Emirates SkyCargo, said the company regarded wildlife protection as an important responsibility and highlighted the specialist requirements involved in transporting live animals by air.
The successful movement of Vega and Kuda demonstrates the importance of specialised handling infrastructure and trained personnel when transporting animals internationally. Such operations require careful planning around animal welfare, safety, handling and regulatory requirements throughout the journey.
Beyond the Zimbabwe operation, Emirates is also investing in greater awareness and coordination within the aviation sector to address illegal wildlife trafficking.
The airline recently organised an Illegal Wildlife Trafficking Awareness Workshop in Dubai, bringing together representatives from the Emirates Group, UAE authorities and other organisations involved in aviation, conservation and enforcement.
Participants included representatives of the Ministry of Climate Change & Environment, Dubai Customs, Dubai Police, Dubai Airports, Al Ain Municipality and the International Fund for Animal Welfare.
The workshop used real-world cases and scenario-based discussions to examine methods for identifying potential wildlife trafficking, improving escalation procedures and strengthening coordination between organisations. Animal welfare and biosecurity considerations were also addressed.
Emirates is a founding signatory of the Buckingham Palace Declaration and works with United for Wildlife as part of wider international efforts to disrupt illegal wildlife trafficking.
The company's decision to support conservation-related transport, combined with its internal wildlife-trafficking prevention measures, reflects an expanding role for the aviation and logistics industry in environmental protection.
As international conservation organisations increasingly rely on specialised equipment, personnel and trained animals operating across borders, dependable air cargo networks can become an important component of conservation programmes.
For Emirates SkyCargo, the Zimbabwe mission therefore represents more than the transportation of two dogs. It demonstrates how global logistics capabilities can be connected with conservation objectives while reinforcing the company's broader efforts to prevent the illegal movement of wildlife through the international aviation network.

05.09.2026

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SLT-MOBITEL Launches CONNECT Bundle Combining Broadband, Mobile and Entertainment

By Vipula Amarasinghe

SLT-MOBITEL has introduced a new integrated connectivity package aimed at giving Sri Lankan households and individuals a more convenient way to access internet, voice and entertainment services through a single monthly subscription.
Named ‘SLT-MOBITEL CONNECT’, the new offering brings together fixed broadband, mobile connectivity, voice services and television entertainment, targeting households, professionals, students, entrepreneurs and remote workers seeking a single solution for their digital needs.
The package combines home and mobile services, allowing customers to remain connected both at home and while travelling. SLT-MOBITEL said the new proposition is designed to simplify the management of multiple telecommunications services while providing customers with a broader range of benefits under one package.
Under the home component, customers receive fibre broadband with unlimited data at speeds of up to 100/50 Mbps, along with 50GB of 4G mobile data and unlimited voice calls. The package also includes unlimited midnight data between midnight and 7 a.m. and access to more than 90 PeoTV channels.
Customers subscribing to the home package will also receive an Optical Network Terminal (ONT) and a Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) router at the time of installation. These are provided as one-time equipment provisions to support connectivity from the beginning of the service.
The mobile component of SLT-MOBITEL CONNECT offers 30GB of data, unlimited voice calls and 1,000 SMS messages. Customers can also share their data and voice benefits among up to five additional SIMs at no extra cost.
The home package is priced at Rs. 8,500 per month, while the mobile package is available at Rs. 1,500 per month. Customers opting for both services can access the complete CONNECT package for Rs. 10,000 per month.
The launch comes as demand for reliable and flexible digital connectivity continues to expand, with internet access increasingly becoming an essential part of everyday activities ranging from education and employment to entertainment, communication and business.
By bringing fixed broadband, mobile data, voice and television services together, SLT-MOBITEL is positioning CONNECT as an integrated alternative to managing separate subscriptions for different digital requirements.
The company said the package is intended to create a more seamless digital experience by allowing customers to access essential connectivity and entertainment services through a unified offering.
For families, the ability to share mobile benefits across multiple SIMs could provide greater flexibility, while professionals and remote workers can benefit from having both home broadband and mobile connectivity within the same overall package.
The introduction of SLT-MOBITEL CONNECT represents another step in the telecommunications sector's move towards bundled digital services, as operators increasingly seek to provide customers with broader ecosystems rather than standalone connectivity products.

30.08.2026

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John Keells Expands Salesforce Partnership to Drive Customer Growth in Retail and Automotive

By Vipula Amarasinghe

John Keells Holdings PLC (JKH) is expanding its collaboration with global customer relationship management company Salesforce as the diversified Sri Lankan conglomerate steps up the use of data, artificial intelligence and automation to strengthen customer experiences across its retail and automotive businesses.
The expanded partnership will focus initially on Keells supermarkets and John Keells CG Auto, with technology being used to connect customer information, improve engagement and support more efficient business operations.
Keells supermarkets are using Salesforce technology to enhance the experience of more than two million members of its Keells Nexus loyalty programme. By bringing together customer transactions, preferences, behaviours and interactions, the supermarket chain aims to gain a more comprehensive understanding of its customers and use those insights to deliver more relevant and personalised engagement.
The technology platform includes Salesforce Loyalty Management, Data 360, Marketing Automation, MuleSoft and Agentforce Service. Together, these systems are designed to help Keells move beyond conventional loyalty rewards by enabling the business to respond more effectively to individual customer needs across different channels.
The initiative reflects a wider shift in the retail sector towards data-driven customer engagement, where loyalty programmes are increasingly being used not only to provide rewards but also to understand purchasing patterns and build longer-term relationships with consumers.
The collaboration is also being extended into JKH's automotive business through John Keells CG Auto, the authorised distributor of BYD passenger vehicles in Sri Lanka.
John Keells CG Auto is deploying Salesforce Automotive Cloud to improve the management of vehicle inventory while connecting vehicle information with customer interactions throughout the sales and ownership lifecycle.
The system is expected to provide a unified view of customers and vehicles, allowing the company to connect activities ranging from initial vehicle discovery and purchase to servicing and after-sales support. Such integration is intended to create a more consistent customer experience while supporting the company's expansion into new locations, services and premium automotive segments.
Ramesh Shanmuganathan, Executive Vice President and Group Chief Information Officer of John Keells Holdings, said the group views the experience economy as an important area of future differentiation.
He said the partnership with Salesforce would bring together data, artificial intelligence and customer engagement to convert business insights into action, while creating a scalable technology foundation that could be extended across the wider John Keells Group.
Osanda Warnekulasooriya, Senior Vice President and Head of IT – Retail Sector at John Keells Holdings, said personalisation had to be relevant, timely and trusted, particularly given the scale of the Keells Nexus membership base.
According to Salesforce, the collaboration reflects a broader transformation in the way large enterprises approach customer data. Instead of simply collecting information, businesses are increasingly seeking to activate customer intelligence across multiple touchpoints by combining data, CRM platforms and AI-powered capabilities.
Mankiran Chowhan, Managing Director of Salesforce for India and Sri Lanka, said customers experience a business as a continuous relationship rather than as separate departments or technology systems.
The expanded partnership between JKH and Salesforce highlights the growing importance of integrated digital platforms in Sri Lanka's retail and automotive sectors. For JKH, the investment provides a technology base aimed at improving customer engagement while creating opportunities to use automation and AI as the group's businesses pursue their next stage of growth.

30.08.2026

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GLOBAL CEO ANDRÉ LACROIX BRINGS LEADERSHIP WITH SOUL TO SRI LANKA, LAUNCHES SINHALESE EDITION AT TWO LEADING UNIVERSITIES

1. André meets students, faculty and industry figures at the University of Moratuwa and the University of Colombo to launch the Sinhalese edition of his book and share his ten humanist principles of leadership
2. The Sinhalese edition follows earlier translations into French and Chinese, part of a growing effort to bring the book's ten leadership principles to readers in their own language, wherever they are in the world

Global Chief Executive André Lacroix visited two of Sri Lanka's leading universities today to launch the Sinhalese edition of his book, Leadership with Soul, which challenges conventional leadership thinking and invites current and future leaders to stop, reflect and reinvent their approach to become ever-better leaders.
"The visit comes at a pivotal moment for Sri Lanka. The economy grew 5.1% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2026, extending ten consecutive quarters of recovery since the country's 2022 financial crisis. Sri Lanka is also aging faster than any other country in South Asia, with a median age of around 34 years. With its working-age population set to shrink in the years ahead, giving today's young people the tools and the confidence to lead is more urgent than ever.
The event marks André Lacroix 's first visit to Sri Lanka and a landmark moment for Sri Lanka's testing, inspection and certification (TIC) industry: Leadership with Soul becomes the first leadership book by a FTSE 100 TIC sector leader to be launched in the country and in Sinhalese. As Intertek Group plc CEO, André leads a global Total Quality Assurance business that has been present in the country since 2008 and has since grown to offer its ATIC advantage of Assurance, Testing, Inspection and Certification to customers across Softlines, Cargo, Oil & Gas, Audits & Assurance, and Environmental.
During his visit, André addressed close to 250 students, faculty and senior figures from Sri Lanka's textile and apparel industry at the University of Moratuwa, the country's premier technological university and training ground for many senior leaders in its textile sector. He also addressed an audience of 200 students from the Faculty of Management and Finance at the University of Colombo, the country's oldest and most prestigious public university.
At both universities, André spoke about the ten principles at the heart of Leadership with Soul and answered questions from students. The Sinhalese edition was launched with senior faculty members and industry representatives, and first signed copies of the book were presented to the university libraries.
Dr. T. S. Jayawardana, Senior Lecturer and Head of the Department of Textile and Apparel Engineering at the University of Moratuwa, commended the decision to release a translation of the book: “With Leadership with Soul in Sinhalese, we open the door for students to connect more deeply with its ideas in a language that feels like home. This is not just a translation, it is a step toward placing Sinhalese confidently alongside global languages on the international stage. The book brings together ten powerful leadership concepts, which can guide the youth of Sri Lanka as they prepare to enter the world of work and look to achieve their full potential.”
Professor K. A. S. P. Kaluarachchi, Director, Postgraduate Studies at the University of Colombo, further spoke about the value of the book to leadership literature, “Leadership with Soul offers practical guidance and insights for developing a leadership style centred on awareness of self and others, compassion, integrity, authenticity, trust and transparency. Professor Maduka Udunuwara, Acting Dean of the Faculty of Management and Finance, added: “This work is an invaluable addition to leadership literature.”
Speaking about the launch, André Lacroix said: “Leadership with Soul is more than a leadership book. It is a guide to building organisations where people, purpose and performance go hand in hand. "Drawing on more than three decades of my global leadership experience, it offers practical insights on how to inspire people, create customer-centric organisations, and leave a lasting legacy. Today, we are proud to launch the Sinhalese edition, making these timeless leadership principles accessible to an even wider audience.”
In his book, Lacroix reveals his model for business success, built over more than three decades with world-leading organisations including Ernst & Young, PepsiCo, Burger King, Euro Disney, Inchcape, Reckitt Benckiser and Intertek. He attributes his success to an empathetic, humanist approach to driving sustainable growth and value for all: customers, employees, shareholders, communities and society as a whole.

29.08.2026

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Prime Residencies Celebrates Hand Over of The Palace Gampaha, the Largest Planned Gated Community in Gampaha

Prime Lands Residencies PLC, the real leader in the modern real estate, the condominium development arm of Prime Group, has reached another significant milestone with the successful completion and official handover of The Palace Gampaha the largest planned gated community in Gampaha. The grand handover ceremony marked the official handover of the residences to the homeowners, bringing to fruition a development that commenced construction in 2021 and now stands as one of the area’s most significant residential landmarks.
Strategically located just 2 km from Gampaha Town and 100 meters from Colombo -Kandy main road, The Palace Gampaha has transformed suburban living by creating a master-planned residential community that combines connectivity, security, and modern lifestyle conveniences. Rising ground plus three floors, The Palace Gampaha comprises 480 two and three-bedroom apartments, with prices starting from LKR 27.5 million. The development reflects Prime Residencies' vision of making high-quality, master-planned community living more accessible to Sri Lankan families without compromising on quality, comfort, or lifestyle.
Designed as a complete lifestyle destination rather than simply a residential complex, The Palace Gampaha offers one of the most comprehensive amenity offerings in the area. Spread across 13½ acres, the development has been thoughtfully planned with only 20% of the total land allocated for apartment development, while the remaining 80% is dedicated to landscaped areas and common facilities. Residents enjoy a fully gated and secure environment featuring landscaped gardens, a swimming pool, gymnasium, clubhouse, library, community kitchen,laundry, mini mart, and a daycare center managed by the Lyceum Group, creating a vibrant neighborhood where every essential service is within easy reach.
The development also incorporates sustainable infrastructure and future-ready engineering solutions, including solar power for common areas, an underground electricity cable network, and an advanced sewage treatment plant with water recycling facilities features that enhance operational efficiency while promoting environmentally responsible living.
As the largest condominium community ever developed in Gampaha, the project also represents a significant legal and engineering achievement. Prime Residencies successfully secured all statutory approvals required for handover, including certifications from the Condominium Management Authority together with the registration of the Condominium Plan and Deed of Declaration, ensuring homeowners receive a development that is fully compliant and professionally managed from day one.

Commenting on the milestone, Premalal Brahmanage, Chairman of Prime Group, said:
"The Palace Gampaha represents far more than the completion of another residential project. It reflects our vision of creating large-scale communities that enrich the way Sri Lankans live. Delivering the largest planned gated community in Gampaha is a testament to the trust our customers place in us and the commitment of our team to deliver every promise we make. We are proud to welcome 480 families into a community that has been thoughtfully designed for generations to come."
The successful completion and handover of The Palace Gampaha is yet another testament to Prime Lands Residencies PLC's ability to consistently deliver on its promises from vision and design to construction and final handover. Backed by 30 years of excellence, Prime Group has developed a portfolio of over 70 gated community and apartment developments, completed more than 10,000 land development projects across Sri Lanka, and currently has more than five landmark residential developments under construction.
The Group has also been recognized as 'Developer of the Year - Sri Lanka' at the Real Estate Asia Awards for consecutive years, while earning the Gold Award in the Land and Property Sector at the TAGS Awards-Sri Lanka's premier corporate reporting awards that recognize Transparency, Accountability, Governance and Sustainability in business. These accolades, together with the Group's proven track record of reliable delivery, innovation, and quality craftsmanship, reflect its deep understanding of the evolving aspirations of discerning homebuyers and continue to set new benchmarks for residential development in Sri Lanka.
The successful completion and handover of The Palace Gampaha is yet another testament to Prime Lands Residencies PLC's ability to consistently deliver on its promises.
Expertise Unmatched. Promises Delivered.

29.08.2026

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SLID Summit Calls for Stronger, Future-Ready Boards to Drive Sri Lanka’s Growth

By Vipula Amarasinghe

The Sri Lanka Institute of Directors (SLID) has called for a fundamental shift in corporate governance, urging Sri Lankan boards to move beyond regulatory compliance and take a more strategic role in driving sustainable business growth and national economic competitiveness.
The call came at the conclusion of the Sri Lanka Corporate Director Summit 2026, which brought together 475 participants, including chairpersons, corporate directors, chief executives, regulators, policymakers, investors, governance professionals, academics and senior executives.
Held under the theme “Future-Ready Sri Lankan Boards – From Compliance to Sustainable Growth,” the Summit featured prominent local and international speakers from Sri Lanka, the United Kingdom, United States, Australia, India, Thailand, the Maldives and other markets.
The event also marked an important milestone in SLID’s 25-year journey of promoting corporate governance and director excellence in Sri Lanka.
Discussions at the Summit highlighted the increasingly complex responsibilities facing corporate boards. Speakers emphasised that effective governance today requires more than meeting regulatory obligations, with boards expected to provide strategic direction, oversee emerging technologies, strengthen organisational resilience, protect corporate reputation and develop strong organisational cultures.
Cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, digital transformation, environmental, social and governance (ESG) priorities, geopolitical uncertainty and changing stakeholder expectations also featured prominently in discussions.
Through keynote presentations, panel discussions, a Directors’ Dialogue and interactive sessions, participants examined practical challenges facing modern boardrooms and exchanged experiences with governance experts, regulators and business leaders.
SLID Chairman Dinesh Weerakkody said the discussions should continue beyond the Summit and translate into meaningful changes in boardroom decision-making.
He announced that SLID intends to compile key insights and perspectives from the Summit into a Board Governance Insights Handbook, providing directors with a practical reference for addressing emerging challenges.
“Effective boards are the foundation of strong institutions,” Weerakkody said, stressing their importance to Sri Lanka’s economic transformation.
SLID Chief Executive Officer Anitra Perera said the Summit reflected the Institute’s continued commitment to equipping directors with the leadership capabilities, practical knowledge and international perspectives needed to operate in an increasingly complex global environment.
Summit Chair Charaka Perera said the discussions demonstrated the importance of open dialogue, continuous learning and effective leadership in building future-ready boards. He said the objective was to create a national platform where directors could challenge established thinking, exchange experiences and strengthen the quality of boardroom decision-making.
Technical Chair Sutheash Balasubramaniam emphasised that the ultimate impact of the Summit would be measured by the decisions directors make after returning to their organisations.
While acknowledging compliance as a fundamental responsibility, he said future-ready boards must also shape strategy, build trust, embrace innovation and generate sustainable long-term value.
The Summit received support from numerous sponsors, corporate partners and supporting organisations, including Deloitte Sri Lanka & Maldives as Strategic Partner and LYNEAR Wealth Management as Title Sponsor.
SLID said the momentum generated by the Summit will continue through its director education programmes, particularly the SLID Board Leadership Programme. The Institute aims to further develop globally connected and capable boards that can strengthen organisational resilience, improve investor confidence and contribute to Sri Lanka’s long-term economic growth.

29.08.2026

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TBWA\Sri Lanka Named No. 1 Industry Leader at Dragons of Sri Lanka 2026

By Vipula Amarasinghe

TBWA\Sri Lanka has been named the No. 1 Industry Leader at the Dragons of Sri Lanka 2026, winning seven awards across four campaigns developed for two of its long-standing clients, Hutchison Telecommunications Lanka and Maliban Biscuit Manufactories.
The agency's haul comprised one Gold, two Silver, two Bronze and two Black Dragons, with the winning work recognised across a broad range of categories including Artificial Intelligence, Product Launch or Re-launch, Event or Experiential, Cause, Environment or Sustainability, Media, Creative Excellence and Small Budget.
Leading TBWA\Sri Lanka's performance was Hutch Roaming – The Roaming Hack, which secured a Gold award in Artificial Intelligence and a Black Dragon in the Small Budget category. The campaign demonstrated how technology and creative thinking could be combined to address a practical consumer challenge in an unconventional manner.
Another Hutch campaign, Hutch Pissuwak ('This is Crazy'), won Silver in the Product Launch or Re-launch category, recognising its distinctive creative approach in introducing a Hutch proposition to consumers.
For Maliban Biscuit Manufactories, HumaniTill received Silver in Event or Experiential and Bronze in Cause, Environment or Sustainability. The campaign sought to turn the act of giving into a tangible experience while linking participation with a broader social impact.
Maliban's The One Breath Challenge, developed for Clean Air Day, also earned two recognitions — a Bronze in Media and a Black Dragon for Creative Excellence.
The diversity of the awards was highlighted by TBWA\Sri Lanka Chief Creative Officer Nathasoruban Sivapatham, who said the breadth of the recognised work was particularly rewarding.
He noted that the campaigns addressed significantly different challenges, ranging from the use of artificial intelligence to rethink a roaming proposition to creating an experiential approach to giving.
“For us, that is what creativity is about — finding the idea that best solves the problem, rather than starting with a particular medium or format,” Sivapatham said.
The agency attributed the achievement to its Disruption® in Action philosophy, which encourages teams to challenge conventional approaches and identify new opportunities for brands to engage with consumers.
TBWA\Sri Lanka Managing Director Renuka Marshall said the No. 1 Industry Leader recognition reflected the agency's approach to applying different ways of thinking to each client challenge.
“It's about bringing a different way of thinking to every challenge — not disruption for the sake of being different, but finding better answers for our clients and their audiences,” she said.
Chief Operating Officer Ahmed T. Hassan also credited the agency's client relationships, noting that trust and collaboration played an important role in developing the award-winning campaigns.
The latest achievement marks a significant milestone for TBWA\Sri Lanka, highlighting the agency's growing emphasis on unconventional creative thinking and its ability to translate such ideas into campaigns addressing business, consumer and social challenges.

28.08.2026

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 Capacity Building Programme for 40 Sri Lankan Civil Service Officers In India

A group of 40 Sri Lankan Civil Service Officers attended a comprehensive capacity-building programme on “Disaster Management” at National Centre for Good Governance (NCGG), India, which concluded on 21 August 2026.

As the fifth specialized training under “Disaster Management” theme, the programme aimed to strengthen the capabilities of civil service officers engaged in disaster preparedness, response, recovery, and resilience-building.

The programme covered topics such as disaster preparedness and mitigation strategies; disaster management planning and policy; response mechanisms and field operations; early warning systems; urban and local resilience; building state capacity to manage disaster; and implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, among others.

The participants undertook field visits to key institutions, including National Disaster Management Authority, National Disaster Response Force, Uttarakhand State Disaster Management Authority, and Uttarakhand State Disaster Response Force.

This initiative forms part of a Memorandum of Understanding signed between NCGG and Sri Lanka Institute of Development Administration during the State Visit of President H.E. Anura Kumara Dissanayake to India in 2024 to train 1500 Sri Lankan civil service officers over five years.

Capacity-building stands as a cornerstone of India’s development cooperation with Sri Lanka. Further reinforcing this commitment, Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi, during his State Visit to Sri Lanka in April 2025, announced additional 700customized training slots annually for Sri Lankan professionals. This significantly enhanced capacity-building endeavour of India thus now benefits 1000 Sri Lankans annually.  

23.08.2026

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LANKAPAK 2026 Set to Drive Growth and Innovation in Sri Lanka’s Packaging Industry

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Sri Lanka’s packaging industry is undergoing significant change as businesses face growing demands for sustainability, resource efficiency, innovation, technology and compliance with international market requirements. LANKAPAK 2026, Sri Lanka’s premier international packaging exhibition, will bring together leading industry stakeholder from Sri Lanka and overseas from 23rd to 25th October 2026 at the Sirimavo Bandaranaike Memorial Exhibition Centre (SBMEC), BMICH, Colombo.
Organized by the Sri Lanka Institute of Packaging (SLIP) in collaboration with CDC Events, the 27th edition of LANKAPAK will feature more than 160 exhibition stalls representing over 80 companies from Sri Lanka and overseas, including participants from China, India, Pakistan, Maldives and other South Asian countries.
LANKAPAK 2026 comes at an important time for the packaging sector, as global markets increasingly focus on circularity, waste reduction, recyclability, material efficiency and sustainable production. Packaging is no longer viewed simply as a means of protecting and presenting a product; it has become an important factor in manufacturing efficiency, product development, brand value and export competitiveness.
The exhibition will showcase the latest developments across the packaging value chain, including packaging machinery, processing technologies, printing, plastics, paper, labelling, sustainable packaging, smart packaging and innovative materials. The event will provide businesses with opportunities to explore technologies and solutions that can improve productivity, reduce material and production waste, enhance product quality and respond to changing customer and regulatory requirements.
The development of a competitive packaging industry is closely linked to Sri Lanka’s export ambitions. International buyers increasingly expect products to meet specific packaging, safety, quality and sustainability standards. Strong packaging capabilities can therefore help Sri Lankan manufacturers and exporters improve their market readiness and compete more effectively in regional and international markets.
LANKAPAK 2026 will connect Sri Lankan manufacturers, exporters, SMEs and entrepreneurs with international technology providers, suppliers, buyers and industry professionals, creating opportunities to discover new solutions, develop business partnerships and expand into new markets.
Held concurrently with the exhibition on 23rd and 24th October, the SLIP Annual Packaging Congress 2026 will provide a dedicated platform for industry leaders, academics, policymakers and professionals to discuss key developments shaping the future of packaging.
Under the theme “Rewriting Packaging in the New Global Economic Landscape,” the Congress will focus on sustainability, innovation, emerging technologies, changing global market requirements and the role of packaging in strengthening business and export competitiveness.
Another key feature will be the Packaging Clinic, which will provide practical guidance to businesses on packaging design, material selection, standards, product development, sustainability and export readiness. The initiative will be particularly valuable for SMEs and entrepreneurs seeking expert advice to improve their packaging solutions and prepare their products for wider markets.
The concurrent programme will also include Daily Tech Forum sessions covering emerging technologies, innovative materials, global trends and key developments within the packaging industry.

19.08.2026

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OneDriver.lk wins Silver at BestWeb.LK 2026

HighFlyer Chairman Prof. M. Thilakasiri (left), OneDriver founder Lakmal Wijesiri (centre), and Kayen Akeel, HighFlyer’s Marketing Consultant (right).

OneDriver.lk has been awarded Silver in the Best Automotive Website category at the BestWeb.LK 2026 awards, marking an important milestone in the company’s digital transformation and continued growth.
The award, presented on 12 August 2026, recognises OneDriver’s evolution from a manually operated driver-booking service into a technology-enabled Driver-as-a-Service company, while retaining its focus on safety, reliability and personal customer service.
OneDriver began with Drink’nDrive, a simple concept designed to help customers get home safely in their own vehicles after a night out. A professional driver would travel to the customer and drive both the customer and their vehicle home. The service has since expanded under the OneDriver brand to include airport transfers, corporate travel, events, long-distance journeys, tourism and vehicle servicing.
Today, OneDriver serves more than 2,500 customers through a network of over 35 professional drivers, operating around the clock. The company has positioned itself as Sri Lanka’s leading Driver-as-a-Service provider and the country’s only deeply technology-integrated operator in the sector.
A significant part of this transformation has been its partnership with HighFlyer Global, which has provided technology development, engineering and strategic guidance. The partnership has transformed OneDriver’s early handwritten booking process into an integrated ERP platform covering bookings, driver allocation, pricing, tracking, notifications, invoicing and payments.
The platform also incorporates agentic AI capabilities, enabling management to ask questions in natural language, access business insights and initiate actions. Meanwhile, OneDriver’s internal driver application is available in Sinhala, Tamil and English, helping make the service more accessible to its diverse team.
Despite its technology-driven operations, OneDriver has deliberately chosen not to introduce a customer-facing app. Instead, customers can simply call or send a WhatsApp message to make a booking.
Founder of OneDriver, Lakmal Wijesiri, said the company’s approach is centred on making the customer experience easier. “Technology should make a service simpler, not more complicated. Our customers don’t need another app. They simply want to speak to a real person, book a driver and know that they can get home safely. Behind that simple experience, we have built the technology and systems needed to deliver a reliable and efficient service.”
He added that the BestWeb.LK recognition reflects the company’s journey and its partnership with HighFlyer. “We started with handwritten bookings and a simple idea. Today, we have a technology-driven operation serving thousands of customers. This award is a recognition of that journey and the work of everyone who has helped us grow.”

19.08.2026

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Global Furniture Brand KUKA HOME Enters Sri Lankan Market with First Showroom

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Leo Ye (Operations - Kuka Home), Yohan De Zoysa, Safraz Careem (CEO, Finco Homes), Priyanjith Weerasooria (Deputy Chairman - Finco Holdings), Tarusha Weerasooria (Director - Finco Holdings), Hayman Zhou (Manufacturing Division GM - Kuka Home) and Aiffy Liu (Consultant, Kuka Home)

Global home furnishing company KUKA HOME has entered the Sri Lankan market with the opening of its first showroom in Colombo, bringing its international portfolio of contemporary furniture and home solutions to local consumers.
The brand, which has a presence in more than 120 countries and over 6,000 retail locations worldwide, is represented in Sri Lanka by Finco Homes, the furniture retail arm of Finco Holdings.
Established in 1982, KUKA HOME has built an international reputation through its focus on design, technology and manufacturing. The company operates 14 manufacturing facilities across China, Mexico, the United States and Vietnam, supported by a design centre in Milan, Italy. It also collaborates with design firms in Europe and North America.
Finco Homes CEO Safraz Careem said the partnership was driven by a perceived gap in Sri Lanka's furniture market for an international brand capable of combining contemporary design with the requirements of local households.
"KUKA HOME brings more than four decades of award-winning design, patented technologies and global expertise to Sri Lanka," Careem said, adding that the brand's manufacturing capabilities, product range and international reputation made it a strong fit for the local market.
The new showroom has been designed as a concept store, allowing customers to experience furniture within fully arranged room settings rather than viewing individual products in isolation. The approach is intended to help customers visualise how different furniture pieces can be incorporated into their homes and lifestyles.
The collection focuses on contemporary living and includes designs that combine comfort, functionality and style. The showroom also incorporates smart living concepts aimed at households increasingly adopting technology-driven lifestyles.
Finco Homes Director Tarusha Weerasooria said KUKA HOME's emphasis on research, design, craftsmanship, technology and sustainable production complemented the company's vision for the Sri Lankan market.
The company has placed sustainability among its key business priorities, incorporating environmentally responsible materials into its products while working to reduce its carbon footprint and promote more sustainable manufacturing practices.
The arrival of KUKA HOME adds another international player to Sri Lanka's evolving home furnishing and interior solutions market, giving consumers access to a wider range of globally developed furniture designs.
The new KUKA HOME showroom is located at 12 Alfred House Gardens, Colombo 03, and is open from 9.30 a.m. to 6.30 p.m., Monday to Saturday.
Customers can also explore the brand's wider collection through its Sri Lankan online platform at KUKA HOME's official website.

19.08.2026

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CEAT Strengthens Market Leadership as Sri Lanka’s Most Valuable Tyre Brand

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Representatives of the senior management of CEAT Kelani Holdings, Brand Finance and Echelon Media at the presentation of the ‘Most Valuable Tyre Brand’ 2026 plaque.

CEAT has strengthened its position as a leading brand in Sri Lanka’s automotive industry after being named the country’s most valuable tyre brand in the 2026 Brand Finance “Sri Lanka 100” report.
The recognition places CEAT not only as Sri Lanka’s most valuable and strongest tyre brand, but also as the 11th strongest brand across all sectors in the country. The company’s overall brand value was assessed at Rs. 2.544 billion as at January 1, 2026, up from Rs. 2.325 billion a year earlier.
CEAT has also improved its position among Sri Lanka’s 100 most valuable brands, moving up one place to 43rd overall.
The brand’s strength was reflected in its Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 80.3 out of 100, earning it an AAA- rating, classified as “Extremely Strong.” Brand Finance reported that CEAT achieved particularly strong scores in areas including consumer consideration and reputation, despite operating in a challenging market environment.
The company’s performance extends beyond Sri Lanka. Globally, CEAT was ranked the fourth strongest tyre brand in the world, recording a BSI score of 84.9.
CEAT Kelani Holdings Managing Director Ravi Dadlani said the recognition reflected the company’s sustained engagement with consumers and its consistent approach to developing the brand.
He said long-term brand strength was built through the delivery of quality products, responsiveness to market needs and maintaining relevance as customer expectations and market conditions evolve.
CEAT has established a significant presence in Sri Lanka, selling more than 1.6 million tyres annually and leading the domestic market across several product categories. Its manufacturing portfolio covers tyres for passenger cars, vans, SUVs, commercial vehicles, motorcycles, three-wheelers and agricultural vehicles.
The company currently meets approximately half of Sri Lanka’s automotive tyre demand, while exporting around 20% of its production to 16 countries. Its international operations extend to more than 110 countries, including major markets in Europe and the United States.
CEAT Kelani Holdings has invested more than Rs. 8.5 billion in Sri Lanka during the past decade. It has also committed a further Rs. 4.5 billion investment, underlining its continued focus on manufacturing capacity, technology and innovation.
The company was also recognised earlier this year as the Best Tyre Manufacturer at Sri Lanka’s inaugural Automobile Industry Awards, organised by the Automobile Industry Council of Sri Lanka.
The latest Brand Finance recognition adds to CEAT’s growing record of industry accolades while highlighting the value of sustained investment in manufacturing, product development and brand building.
Brand Finance, which operates in 27 countries, is a global brand valuation consultancy and the first consultancy to provide ISO-compliant brand valuation and evaluation services. Its assessments are aligned with international standards including ISO 10668 and ISO 20671.

19.08.2026

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Ceylinco Life Assets Top Rs. 300 Billion as Insurer Strengthens Financial Position

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Executive Chairman Mr R. Renganathan and Managing Director CEO Mr Thushara Ranasinghe

Ceylinco Life Insurance Limited has crossed the Rs. 300 billion mark in total assets, recording Rs. 302.5 billion as at June 30, 2026, highlighting continued expansion and a strong financial position amid a changing economic environment.
The insurer increased its asset base by Rs. 15.65 billion during the first six months of 2026, representing growth of 5.45 per cent. The company said this translated into average monthly asset growth of approximately Rs. 2.58 billion.
A key indicator of the company’s financial strength is its Risk-Based Capital Adequacy Ratio, which stood at 406 per cent as at June 30. This was more than three times the minimum regulatory requirement of 120 per cent, providing a substantial capital buffer against potential financial and economic volatility.
Ceylinco Life Chairman R. Renganathan said the Rs. 300 billion milestone reflected the company’s financial strength, stability and disciplined approach to growth.
He noted that the company’s strong capital adequacy position demonstrated its focus on prudent risk management and protecting policyholder interests, while providing a solid foundation to manage economic uncertainties and create long-term value for stakeholders.
The company’s expanding asset base is supported largely by its financial investments, including a growing real estate portfolio. Ceylinco Life has been acquiring land strategically for its branch network, allowing it to develop environmentally friendly green buildings while also strengthening its underlying asset base.
Construction is currently underway on the company’s 36th branch building on land owned by Ceylinco Life.
The latest milestone builds on the insurer’s strong performance in 2025, when it maintained its position as Sri Lanka’s life insurance market leader for the 22nd consecutive year. During that year, the company recorded gross written premium income of Rs. 44.18 billion and total income of Rs. 72.43 billion.
Its total assets increased by 14.15 per cent during 2025 to reach Rs. 287 billion, while its Life Fund exceeded Rs. 200 billion.
Ceylinco Life has also continued to strengthen its market standing through customer recognition and industry accolades. At the 2026 SLIM Kantar Peoples Awards, the company was voted the ‘People’s Life Insurance Service Provider of the Year’ for the 20th consecutive year.
The insurer has also been recognised as the Best Life Insurer in Sri Lanka by World Finance for 12 consecutive years and was ranked Sri Lanka’s most valuable insurance brand in both 2025 and 2026.
With assets now exceeding Rs. 300 billion, a substantial capital adequacy buffer and an expanding investment portfolio, Ceylinco Life is positioning itself for continued growth while maintaining a strong focus on financial resilience, policyholder protection and long-term value creation.

16.08.2026

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SLIM SME Development Awards 2026 Returns to Champion Sri Lanka’s Entrepreneurial Excellence

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Dr. Ravi Bamunusinghe (Deputy Jury Head - SMEDA 2026)/ Mr. Maduranga Weeratunga (Project Chairman - SMEDA 2026)/ Mr. Enoch Perera (President - SLIM)/ Mr. Rajiv David (Vice President - Events And Sustainability)/ Dr. Roshan Fernando (Jury Head - SMEDA 2026)/ Mr. Chamil Wickramasinghe (CEO - SLIM)

The Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM) has announced the SLIM SME Development Awards (SMEDA) 2026, continuing its national commitment to recognising and rewarding outstanding achievements among Sri Lanka’s Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in marketing, branding, sales, innovation and sustainable business growth.
Building on the success of previous editions, SMEDA 2026 aims to encourage enterprises across Sri Lanka to embrace professional marketing practices and strengthen their ability to compete in an evolving marketplace. The awards provide businesses with an opportunity to benchmark their performance against recognised standards while gaining national recognition for their achievements and growth potential.
SLIM President, Mr. Enoch Perera said, “SMEDA 2026 is more than an awards programme. It is an investment in the future of Sri Lankan entrepreneurship. At SLIM, we believe that every successful enterprise begins with a strong market orientation, a compelling brand and a customer-first mindset. Through this initiative, we aim to equip our SMEs with the confidence and recognition they need to grow beyond local markets and compete on the global stage. When our SMEs succeed, Sri Lanka succeeds.”
The awards will recognise enterprises across a diverse range of sectors, reflecting the breadth and contribution of Sri Lanka’s SME economy. As in previous editions, participating businesses will be evaluated across key areas of business and marketing performance by an independent panel of experienced professionals.
SLIM Vice President, Events and Sustainability, Mr. Rajiv David highlighted the broader purpose of SMEDA 2026 in supporting the continued development of Sri Lanka’s SME sector. He said, “SMEDA 2026 recognises not only business success, but also innovation, resilience and responsible growth. Beyond recognition, the awards provide SMEs with the visibility, credibility and confidence to scale sustainably and pursue global opportunities.”
Vice President, Education and Research, Manthika Ranasinghe, noted that SMEs remain vital contributors to employment creation, innovation and stronger communities. He added that SLIM is committed to supporting their progress through recognition, market-driven development and greater adoption of professional marketing practices.
SLIM CEO, Mr. Chamil Wickramasinghe added, “SMEDA 2026 is not merely a recognition platform. It is an initiative to empower entrepreneurs by celebrating their achievements, encouraging best practices and highlighting the importance of strategic marketing, branding and customer-centric growth.”
SMEDA 2026 will continue to recognise micro, small and medium enterprises alongside emerging businesses and sector-specific excellence. The evaluation process will examine how participating organisations have applied marketing, branding, customer focus, innovation and sustainable practices to achieve measurable business progress.
Project Chairman, SLIM SME Development Awards 2026, Mr. Maduranga Weeratunga said, “Sri Lanka’s MSMEs represent nearly 80% of all businesses, contribute over 50% to GDP and provide 45% of national employment. Strategic marketing is the bridge connecting local innovation to global value creation. Through SMEDA 2026, we aim to elevate local enterprises into scalable and sustainable brands.”
Head of Jury, Dr. Roshan Fernando said, “Our objective is to recognise organisations that have not only achieved business success but have also demonstrated excellence in marketing, customer focus, innovation and sustainable business practices. SMEDA serves as a benchmark that encourages SMEs to continuously raise their standards.”
Through SMEDA 2026, SLIM aims to extend the value of marketing beyond large corporations and position it as a practical driver of SME development, helping Sri Lankan enterprises build stronger brands, improve competitiveness and contribute more meaningfully to the country’s economic growth.

16.08.2026

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India Expands CEWET Scholarships to 700 Plantation Youth in Sri Lanka

The Government of India has strengthened its support for education and youth development in Sri Lanka’s plantation community by expanding the Ceylon Estate Workers Education Trust (CEWET) scholarship scheme to benefit 700 students annually.
The enhanced scholarship programme was formally implemented at a ceremony held at the Taj Samudra Hotel in Colombo on August 10, 2026. The event brought together Deputy Minister of Plantation and Community Infrastructure Sunderlingam Pradeep, Indian High Commissioner Santosh Jha, the Deputy High Commissioner, members of the CEWET Board of Management, scholarship recipients and their parents.
The expansion follows commitments announced during the visit of Indian Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan to Sri Lanka in April this year. As part of the initiative, the Government of India has provided an additional one-time grant of INR 200 million to the CEWET corpus fund.
The additional funding has enabled CEWET to double the number of annual scholarship beneficiaries from 350 to 700, significantly widening access to educational assistance for young people from plantation communities.
Alongside the increase in beneficiaries, the monthly scholarship payments have also been enhanced. Advanced Level students will receive LKR 2,500 per month, while university undergraduates will receive LKR 7,500, providing additional financial support to students pursuing higher levels of education.
Speaking at the ceremony, High Commissioner Santosh Jha emphasized the longstanding people-to-people ties between India and Sri Lanka, describing the Indian Origin Tamil community as an important living bridge between the two countries.
He also outlined India's broader educational assistance to Sri Lanka under the INR 75 crore package. The initiatives include STEM training for more than 2,000 teachers, educational materials for over 10,000 students, infrastructure improvements at nine plantation schools and the establishment of 60 smart classrooms.
Deputy Minister Sunderlingam Pradeep expressed appreciation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Government of India for their continued assistance to Sri Lanka's plantation community. He described the relationship between the two countries as a brotherly bond and highlighted the importance of sustained investment in education.
The Deputy Minister said education plays a crucial role in overcoming historical disadvantages, reducing social barriers and creating greater opportunities for community development and equality.
The expanded CEWET scholarship programme adds to a wider portfolio of India-supported human resource development initiatives in Sri Lanka, including Indian Council for Cultural Relations scholarships, Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation training programmes and other capacity-building initiatives.
The latest expansion marks another step in strengthening India-Sri Lanka cooperation in education, skills development and youth empowerment, while creating greater opportunities for students from the plantation sector to pursue higher education and improve their future economic prospects.

16.08.2026

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Fabindia Sri Lanka Celebrates One Year of Timeless Craftsmanship, Conscious Living and Meaningful Connections

Fabindia Sri Lanka proudly celebrates its first anniversary, marking a remarkable year of bringing India's rich artisanal heritage, sustainable craftsmanship, and timeless lifestyle experience to Sri Lankan customers.

Since opening its flagship store at Havelock City Mall in partnership with The Swadeshi Industrial Works PLC, Fabindia has been warmly embraced by customers seeking authentic, handcrafted products that celebrate culture, quality, and conscious living.

The launch introduced one of India's most respected lifestyle brands to Sri Lanka, offering beautifully crafted apparel, home furnishings, accessories and gifts inspired by centuries of traditional craftsmanship.

Over the past year, Fabindia Sri Lanka has become more than a retail destination. It has evolved into a place where heritage meets contemporary living, attracting customers who appreciate natural fabrics, sustainable practices, and products with a meaningful story behind them.

Speaking on the milestone, Chulodhara Samarasinghe, Managing Director of The Swadeshi Industrial Works PLC, said: "Our first year has been an inspiring journey of building connections through craftsmanship, culture and conscious living. We are deeply grateful to our customers, partners and dedicated team for embracing the Fabindia philosophy. As we celebrate this milestone, we remain committed to offering products that are authentic, responsibly made and timeless in their appeal."

Fabindia’s philosophy of empowering artisan communities, preserving traditional skills, and promoting sustainable lifestyles continues to resonate strongly with consumers seeking products with purpose. Through every handcrafted garment, home accessory and lifestyle collection, the brand reflects a commitment to preserving heritage while embracing modern elegance.
The first anniversary is also an opportunity to thank its loyal customers, whose continued support has been instrumental in the success of Fabindia Sri Lanka's partnership and its journey to deliver exceptional products that blend tradition with contemporary style.   

Established in 1960, Fabindia is one of India's leading lifestyle brands, connecting over 55,000 artisans and farmers with modern markets. The brand is renowned for its commitment to traditional craftsmanship, sustainable sourcing, natural materials, and products that celebrate the richness of Indian heritage.  
To commemorate the occasion, the store will celebrate with exclusive anniversary offers, curated collections and special in-store experiences, inviting customers to rediscover the beauty of handcrafted living.
As Fabindia Sri Lanka enters its second year, the brand looks forward to strengthening its relationship with Sri Lankan consumers by continuing to inspire mindful living, celebrate artisanship, and deliver exceptional products that blend tradition with contemporary style.  

16.08.2026

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Digital Summit Asia – Sri Lanka 2026 to Bring Regional Digital Leaders to Colombo

The Digital Marketing Association of Sri Lanka (DMASL) is set to host Digital Summit Asia – Sri Lanka 2026 from October 1 to 2 at Water’s Edge, Colombo, bringing together digital industry leaders, technology professionals, marketers, entrepreneurs and policymakers from across Asia.
The summit will begin with an exclusive C-Suite Event on September 30, providing senior business leaders with an opportunity to engage in strategic discussions on the evolving digital economy.
This year’s summit marks an expansion of the event’s regional identity and international outlook, with organisers seeking to establish Sri Lanka as a key meeting point for digital innovation, collaboration and technology-driven business development in Asia.
The event will be held under the theme “The Epicentre. A Mind That Forms.” The theme reflects the organisers’ belief that new ideas and innovation emerge when people from different industries, cultures and professional backgrounds come together to exchange knowledge and challenge established thinking.
Digital Summit Asia – Sri Lanka 2026 is expected to feature regional and international speakers as well as leading Sri Lankan professionals from the digital, technology, marketing and creative industries.
The programme will provide a platform for participants to explore emerging trends, share industry knowledge and identify opportunities for cross-border partnerships. It will also create opportunities for businesses and professionals to develop relationships within Asia’s expanding digital ecosystem.
DMASL said the summit forms part of its broader effort to strengthen Sri Lanka’s role in the regional digital economy. With Asia continuing to experience rapid growth in technology, digital transformation and creative industries, the event aims to connect Sri Lankan businesses and professionals with international markets and industry networks.
The organisers are also expanding the summit’s international collaborations, including a strategic partnership with ADFEST, a globally recognised platform in the creative communications industry. The partnership is expected to strengthen connections between Sri Lanka’s digital and creative sectors and international industry communities.
The growing network of local and international partners is intended to support the summit’s objective of creating meaningful regional connections while showcasing Sri Lanka’s capabilities in digital innovation and creative technology.
For businesses, the summit is expected to provide opportunities to identify emerging technologies, understand changing consumer and digital trends, and explore potential collaborations with regional companies and professionals.
For Sri Lanka, the organisers see the event as an opportunity to promote the country not only as a participant in Asia’s digital economy but also as a destination for regional knowledge exchange, innovation and business collaboration.
With its expanded regional focus, Digital Summit Asia – Sri Lanka 2026 is positioning Colombo as a platform where ideas, technology and business networks can converge, potentially strengthening the country’s visibility within Asia’s rapidly evolving digital landscape.
The summit will take place at Water’s Edge from October 1 to 2, with the C-Suite Event scheduled for September 30.

14.08.2026

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Sri Lanka Economic & Investment Summit 2026 to Examine the Next Phase of Growth, Reform and Competitiveness

As Sri Lanka moves beyond economic stabilisation, the next challenge is turning policy direction and reform into sustained economic progress. With stabilisation no longer the only priority, attention is increasingly turning to what comes next - how to sustain growth, build competitiveness and translate reforms and investment into lasting economic progress.
This will be among the key questions at the Sri Lanka Economic & Investment Summit 2026 (SLEIS 2026) organised by The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce on 12-13 October, where industry veterans and policymakers will examine the priorities that will shape Sri Lanka’s next phase of development.
Titled “Building the Next Economy: Policy, Technology and Infrastructure for Growth”, the session will bring together Prof. Gomika Udugamasuriya, Senior Advisor to the President of Sri Lanka on Science and Technology; Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya, Chief Advisor to the President on Digital Economy; and Dr. Parakrama Dissanayake, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority. The discussion will be moderated by Shiran Fernando, Secretary General and CEO of The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce.
The discussion will examine the choices Sri Lanka faces as it moves from managing economic pressures to building an economy that can compete, adapt, and grow over the long term. It will consider the reforms and investments needed to support this transition, while examining how technology, innovation, digital transformation and infrastructure can contribute to higher productivity and new areas of economic opportunity. Together, these perspectives will offer a broader view of how Sri Lanka can build the foundations for its next stage of growth and become better positioned to respond to technological, economic and global shifts.
A key focus will also be the gap between policy direction and implementation. With Sri Lanka seeking to attract investment, strengthen connectivity and develop new sources of growth, the discussion will consider what needs to change not only in policy, but in how those priorities are translated into action.
Held under the theme “Positioning Sri Lanka in a Changing Global Economy: Resilience, Reform, and the Future of Economic Policy”, the Summit will take place on 12 and 13 October 2026 at the Shangri-La Colombo, bringing together senior policymakers, business leaders, investors and international experts to examine Sri Lanka’s economic direction, investment opportunities and the reforms required to support long-term growth.
Registrations are now open at https://sleis.chamber.lk/. For more information, contact Alikie on 011 558 8805 (alikie@chamber.lk) or Shanuka on 0701082541 (events.division@chamber.lk).

14.08.2026

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ISF Launches the World’s First Fully Automated Coconut Dewatering System

Sri Lankan engineering and technology company ISF, with bold ambitions in manufacturing AI, has officially launched the world's first fully automated coconut dewatering system. The system improves productivity, reduces labour dependency and addresses operational inefficiencies across the coconut processing industry, while improving return on investment.
Designed and manufactured in Sri Lanka by local engineers, the system automates a process that has traditionally relied on manual handling.
The system was unveiled through a live demonstration attended by the Honourable Minister of Science and Technology, Prof. Chrishantha Abeysena, diplomats representing ISF's key international markets, industry leaders and members of the media. Participants were given the opportunity to observe the technology in operation and understand the key benefits it offers to coconut processors.
Commenting on the launch, ISF Director Anjula Sivakumaran said:
"I am proud to have designed, tested and launched this automated coconut dewatering system. My clients in Indonesia and the Philippines are delighted with this innovation, and this particular machine will be shipped to the Philippines in a few weeks. My team of engineers will be travelling there to oversee the installation and provide after-sales support.
This forms part of my vision to help regional and local firms to automate their operations so that they can compete globally. I also want to realise this vision by leveraging Sri Lanka’s outstanding engineering talent. In doing so, we will help customers achieve their commercial goals through a very short return on investment.
"What ISF does extends beyond coconut dewatering," quips Anjula. "We continue to develop technologies across the entire coconut processing value chain, including dehusking, deshelling and paring. By combining engineering expertise, automation and AI, I aim to create solutions that solve difficult business problems. I am proud that we continue to invest in pioneering technologies through extensive research and development, while working closely with our global partners."
Established in 1977, ISF has evolved from a manufacturing company into a provider of complete technology, engineering, automation and process solutions serving the dairy, coconut, food, pharmaceutical, chemical and FMCG industries.
"It's a new world," Anjula said. "My goal is to help transform companies in Sri Lanka and across the region to global standards at a fraction of the cost charged by Western technology companies."

14.08.2026

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DIMO Recognises Dealer Excellence at Agri Machinery Prestige Awards 2025/26

DIMO has recognised outstanding performers within its islandwide agricultural machinery dealer network at the DIMO Agri Machinery Prestige Awards 2025/26, celebrating excellence across sales, spare parts and after-sales service.
The awards ceremony, held at Monarch Imperial, brought together DIMO’s dealer partners, principals and senior management to acknowledge businesses and individuals whose performance has contributed to strengthening the company’s agricultural machinery operations and expanding customer support across Sri Lanka.
As DIMO’s flagship dealer recognition programme for the agriculture sector, the Prestige Awards highlight the importance of strong partnerships in delivering reliable machinery, spare parts and service support to farmers. The programme also reflects DIMO’s focus on building long-term relationships based on collaboration, trust and shared growth.
Kavin Motors of Vavuniya, represented by A. Vickneshwaran, was named the Sales Category Winner, while A.V.P. Motors of Rambewa, represented by N.P.L. Gunawardane, received the Spare Parts Category Award. MF Tractor Works of Vavuniya, represented by Nadaraj Puwaneshwaran, won the Service Category Award for its contribution to customer support and after-sales service.
The event also marked a significant milestone in DIMO’s agricultural machinery journey, celebrating 35 years of partnership with Mahindra Tractors. The longstanding collaboration has supported the development of agricultural mechanisation in Sri Lanka by introducing modern machinery and technologies to the farming community.
Adding further significance to the occasion was the unveiling of two new machines—the Mahindra OJA Tractor and the LOVOL RG102 Pro Harvester. The new additions are expected to further expand DIMO’s agricultural machinery portfolio and provide farmers with technologies designed to improve productivity and operational efficiency.
DIMO Executive Director Rajeev Pandithage highlighted the important role played by the company’s dealer network in supporting the growth of its Agri Machinery business.
“Our dealer network has been instrumental in driving the success and growth of DIMO Agri Machinery over the years,” Pandithage said, noting that the awards recognise the commitment and resilience of partners serving Sri Lanka’s farming community.
He added that DIMO would continue strengthening its dealer relationships while introducing advanced agricultural technologies and sustainable solutions to create greater value for farmers, customers and business partners.
The DIMO Agri Machinery Prestige Awards 2025/26 underline the company’s continued focus on dealer excellence while reinforcing its broader strategy of supporting Sri Lanka’s agricultural sector through modern machinery, dependable after-sales services and long-term partnerships.
With the introduction of the Mahindra OJA Tractor and LOVOL RG102 Pro Harvester, alongside its established dealer network, DIMO is positioning itself to play a continuing role in the modernisation of agricultural practices and
Sri Lanka.

15.08.2026

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Antler General Industries Unveils the Future of Chemical Innovation

Antler General Industries unveiled its latest innovations at an exclusive product launch held at Shangri-La Colombo on 23 July under the theme "Formulated for the Future." The event brought together valued customers, industry partners, and distinguished local and international guests to celebrate the company's expanding portfolio of advanced chemical solutions and its vision of Creative Chemistry for Industrial Expression.
The evening celebrated Antler's journey from its beginnings in 1979 as a manufacturer of screen printing inks, under founder Mr. Ananda Jayasinghe, widely recognised as the Father of Screen Printing in Sri Lanka, to its evolution into one of the country's leading industrial chemical manufacturers. Today, Antler General Industries has steadily expanded its expertise beyond screen printing inks to become a diversified industrial chemical manufacturer. The company delivers innovative solutions for apparel pad printing, textile processing for fabric manufacturing, pad printing for the glove industry, and high-performance coatings for steel structures and fleet manufacturing, demonstrating their ability to evolve with industry needs while driving innovation across multiple sectors.
Chairman Mrs. Ashani Jayasinghe reaffirmed Antler's commitment to innovation, sustainability, and delivering world-class chemical solutions. CEO Mr. Suranga Gallage and Deputy General Manager Mr. Sudershon Loganathan unveiled the company's newest product range, highlighting the research, technical expertise, and collaborative innovation behind each development.

A key highlight of the evening was the recognition of Antler's strategic partnership with Neo-Chem India, a company with over 45 years of expertise in textile processing and specialty performance chemicals. Led by Vice President of Sales, Mr. Dharmaprakash Natarajan, the Neo-Chem delegation joined Antler's leadership to reaffirm a shared commitment to driving chemical innovation and strengthening regional collaboration.

The event concluded with an interactive product showcase, where guests engaged with Antler's technical experts and experienced first-hand the company's latest solutions, reinforcing Antler General Industries' commitment to shaping the future of industrial chemistry in Sri Lanka and beyond.

08.08.2026

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Arsenal and Emirates Extend Landmark Partnership to 2033

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Arsenal Football Club and Emirates Airline have extended their long-standing commercial partnership through 2033, reinforcing one of the most enduring relationships between a football club and a global airline.
Under the renewed agreement, Emirates will remain Arsenal’s front-of-shirt and training kit partner, while continuing its stadium naming rights partnership. The extension also maintains what is described as the Premier League’s longest-running front-of-shirt partnership.
The relationship between Arsenal and Emirates began in 2006 and has continued throughout the entire Emirates Stadium era. Over the past two decades, the partnership has developed beyond traditional sponsorship, with both organisations using their global platforms to connect Arsenal with supporters across different markets.
The renewal comes shortly after Arsenal’s latest Premier League title triumph, providing a significant backdrop to the next phase of the partnership. Both organisations are expected to build on a number of initiatives developed during their relationship, including the Emirates Cup and Global Gooners supporter programme.
The Emirates Cup has become a regular feature of Arsenal’s pre-season calendar, bringing leading international clubs to North London, while Global Gooners has provided international supporters with opportunities to experience Arsenal matches and the club’s home environment in London.
The next chapter of the partnership will be marked during this weekend’s Emirates Cup, when Arsenal host Borussia Dortmund at Emirates Stadium. A programme of activities will also commemorate the partnership’s 20-year history.
Richard Garlick, Chief Executive of Arsenal, said the renewal reflected the shared ambition of the two organisations following the club’s Premier League success.
He noted that Emirates had been closely associated with Arsenal throughout the club’s recent journey and expressed confidence that the partnership would support further ambitions in the years ahead.
Sir Tim Clark, President of Emirates Airline, said the relationship had developed into something considerably broader than a conventional sponsorship arrangement.
According to Clark, Arsenal and Emirates have grown alongside one another over the past two decades, creating opportunities to engage millions of supporters connected to the club through Emirates’ global network.
The two organisations will mark 20 years of collaboration through a series of supporter activities and special events over the coming weeks.
A new cinematic film has also been launched to coincide with the renewal. Featuring Arsenal legend Per Mertesacker, the film looks back at memorable moments from the Emirates era while highlighting the future of the partnership.
The extended agreement positions Emirates and Arsenal for another seven years of collaboration, with both parties seeking to build on a partnership that has become a defining feature of the club’s modern history.

08.08.2026

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Ceylon Chamber and Southern Gujarat Chamber Renew MoU, Deepening Business Engagement Between Sri Lanka and Gujarat

The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce and the Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SGCCI), Surat, India, renewed their Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), reaffirming a commitment to strengthening business engagement between Sri Lanka and Gujarat.
The renewed MoU was signed by Krishan Balendra, Chairperson of The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, and Mr. Ashok Jirawala, President of SGCCI, during the visit of an SGCCI business delegation to Colombo. The renewal comes as businesses from both markets look at more specific opportunities for trade, investment and commercial partnerships. Following the signing, the visiting delegation engaged with Sri Lankan companies through an interactive business networking session.
The delegation represented a broad range of industries, including textiles and apparel, textile materials, garment accessories, manufacturing and industrial products, gems and jewellery, waste management and waste-to-energy, information technology, spices and processed food.
Textile and apparel discussions examined opportunities for Gujarat-based suppliers to connect with Sri Lanka's apparel manufacturing base, while manufacturers of garment accessories and industrial products explored potential supply and distribution partnerships.
The gems and jewellery sector also featured strongly, with the delegation expressing interest in sourcing Sri Lankan sapphires and other gemstones and exploring connections with local jewellery manufacturers, industry associations and women entrepreneurs.
Beyond trade, discussions covered investment and technology opportunities, including waste-to-energy solutions and digital technologies. Participants also explored two-way trade opportunities in spices and processed food products.
The engagement reflects the scale and diversity of Gujarat's manufacturing and trading base and the scope for Sri Lankan businesses to access new suppliers, markets, technologies and investment partners.
With the MoU renewed, both chambers will continue to facilitate business-to-business connections, share market and industry information, and support companies from Sri Lanka and Gujarat seeking opportunities in each other's markets.

08.08.2026

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SLIM and NANASKA Partner to Strengthen Finance and Leadership Skills for Marketers

The Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM), the National Body for Marketing in Sri Lanka, has entered into a strategic partnership with NANASKA (Pvt) Ltd through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to advance executive education, professional development, and knowledge sharing for marketing professionals.
The first initiative under the partnership will be the launch of the Finance and Leadership Masterclass for Marketing Professionals, an executive programme designed to strengthen financial acumen, commercial thinking, strategic decision-making, and leadership capabilities among marketers.
Commenting on the partnership, Mr. Enoch Perera, President of SLIM, said, " The future of marketing belongs to professionals who combine creativity with commercial understanding and strategic leadership. This partnership with NANASKA represents an important step in broadening the capabilities of marketing professionals by providing an executive learning experience that integrates finance, leadership, and marketing."
Representing NANASKA, Mr. Channa Gunawardana, Executive Director, said, "Today's marketers need more than creative excellence, they need a strong understanding of finance, commercial strategy, and leadership to create lasting business value. We are proud to partner with SLIM to deliver a first-of-its-kind executive learning programme that empowers marketing professionals with the practical knowledge and confidence to lead in an increasingly dynamic business environment."
Ms. Manthika Ranasinghe, Vice President, Education & Research, said, " Professional education must evolve alongside the changing needs of industry. This collaboration enables us to deliver a learning experience that combines academic excellence with practical business insight, helping marketers build capabilities that are increasingly essential in today's corporate landscape."
Mr. Rajiv David, Vice President, Events & Sustainability, added, " Meaningful partnerships create meaningful opportunities. By bringing together the strengths of SLIM and NANASKA, we are introducing a learning platform that supports the continuous development of marketing professionals while fostering stronger collaboration between marketing and finance.”
This strategic collaboration brings together Sri Lanka's premier marketing institute and a leading finance education provider to deliver an executive learning experience that integrates finance, leadership, and marketing. It also lays the foundation for future programmes in emerging disciplines such as artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and business leadership, further strengthening the capabilities of Sri Lanka's marketing professionals.

08.08.2026

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Sri Lanka-France Business Council Sets Five-Point Agenda to Boost Trade and Investment

By Vipula Amarasinghe

The Sri Lanka-France Business Council of The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce has unveiled a new five-point agenda aimed at strengthening bilateral trade, attracting French investment and expanding business cooperation between Sri Lanka and France.
The new direction was announced at the Council’s 22nd Annual General Meeting held at the Galle Face Hotel in Colombo, where a new leadership team was elected for the year ahead.
Mr. Shaameel Mohideen of Spillburg Holdings was elected President, while Mr. Zafir Hashim of John Keells Holdings PLC was appointed Senior Vice President. Mr. Husni Salieh of Noyon Lanka (Pvt) Ltd was elected Vice President, with Mr. Manura Wickramasinghe of Puritas (Pvt) Ltd taking up the position of Treasurer.
The AGM was attended by business leaders, government representatives, members of the diplomatic community and Council members. France’s Ambassador to Sri Lanka and the Maldives, H.E. Rémi Lambert, attended the event as Chief Guest, while representatives of the Embassy of Sri Lanka in France participated virtually.
The Ambassador highlighted the longstanding relationship between the two countries and pointed to significant opportunities for further growth in bilateral trade and investment.
He also identified market access and administrative procedures as areas requiring attention, noting that reducing such barriers would be important to encouraging greater investment from French companies into Sri Lanka.
The Council’s newly appointed President outlined a five-point strategy for the coming year. The programme will focus on improving bilateral trade and market access, encouraging increased French investment, promoting sustainability and innovation, strengthening tourism and cultural links, and providing greater value to Council members through business networking, engagement and advocacy.
The new leadership takes over following a year marked by increased engagement with French trade and investment promotion organisations.
Outgoing President André Fernando of MAC Holdings highlighted the Council’s cooperation with organisations including the Indo-French Chamber of Commerce & Industry and Business France, which helped create new opportunities for interaction between the business communities of Sri Lanka and France.
He also pointed to the Council’s Annual Wine Evening, one of its key networking events, which gained further prominence in 2025 with the participation of French rugby legend Serge Betsen.
Several companies will support the Council’s work through its newly appointed committee, with representatives from A. Baur & Co. (Pvt) Ltd, Aitken Spence Travels, CEVA Logistics Lanka (Pvt) Ltd, Diesel & Motor Engineering PLC and Universal Travel Bureau (Pvt) Ltd joining the leadership structure.
Past Presidents Senake Amerasinghe, Dilipan Tyagarajah and Dr. Asanka Ratnayake were also recognised for their contributions and appointed as Honorary Members.
A separate subcommittee comprising representatives from International Distillers Ltd, Jayantha Premachandra Foundation, Maliban Healthcare (Pvt) Ltd, Marlbo Trading Company, Propylon One (Pvt) Ltd and Web Lankan.com (Pvt) Ltd was appointed to support the Council’s activities.
With the new leadership and strategic agenda in place, the Sri Lanka-France Business Council is seeking to deepen commercial links between the two countries by facilitating partnerships, encouraging investment, promoting knowledge exchange and creating stronger platforms for public-private sector engagement.
The Council’s renewed focus comes as Sri Lanka continues to seek greater international investment and expanded export and business opportunities, while France remains an important potential partner in areas including trade, tourism, technology, sustainability and innovation.

07.08.2026

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Sri Lankan Tech Firm Unveils TapID, Taking Smart Professional Networking to the Global Stage

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Sri Lankan technology company Synapseus Technologies has introduced TapID, a locally developed digital business card and relationship management platform aimed at transforming the way professionals build, manage and strengthen business connections in an increasingly digital world.
The new platform was launched to address a common challenge faced by professionals after networking events—traditional business cards that are often misplaced, forgotten or never followed up, resulting in missed business opportunities.
Unlike conventional NFC-enabled business cards, TapID combines digital contact sharing with customer relationship management (CRM) features, enabling users to nurture professional relationships long after the initial introduction. The platform allows users to instantly exchange digital profiles through NFC technology while automatically saving contact details and providing reminders, notes and follow-up actions to encourage meaningful engagement.
Developed entirely in Sri Lanka, TapID also offers searchable networking histories, exportable contact databases and team performance analytics, providing businesses with valuable insights into their networking and customer engagement activities.
A key feature of the platform is its multilingual accessibility. Designed with Sri Lanka's diverse workforce in mind, TapID currently supports English, Sinhala, Tamil and Arabic, with additional language options expected to be introduced in future updates.
Speaking at the launch, Milinda Lokuge, Founder and Managing Director of Synapseus Technologies, said the platform was created after recognising that many valuable business opportunities disappear because professionals fail to maintain contact after their first meeting.
"Every business opportunity begins with a simple conversation, but too many valuable connections are lost after the initial introduction. TapID was developed to bridge that gap by helping professionals build stronger networks while enabling organisations to manage customer relationships more effectively," he said.
Lokuge added that the platform demonstrates Sri Lanka's ability to develop innovative technology capable of competing in international markets while offering practical solutions for modern businesses.
Beyond digital business cards, TapID integrates two-way contact exchange, built-in CRM capabilities, real-time analytics and a structured follow-up system designed to help professionals maintain relationships through scheduled engagements after networking interactions.
The platform also supports organisations by standardising employee branding while improving sales management and customer follow-up processes. Businesses can monitor networking performance through team analytics, making corporate networking more measurable and efficient.
Complementing its software platform, TapID offers a range of NFC-enabled products including premium business cards, QR codes, NFC Coin Stickers and compact 6mm NFC Stickers available in finishes such as natural wood and brushed metal.
Users can also manage their profiles through the TapID mobile application, allowing instant updates to professional information from anywhere. Flexible subscription packages with billing in Sri Lankan Rupees, referral rewards and customised solutions for individuals and corporate teams are also available.
With the launch of TapID, Synapseus Technologies is positioning Sri Lankan innovation on the global technology landscape while offering professionals and businesses a smarter way to convert introductions into lasting business relationships.

05.08.2026

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Lanka Hospitals Sets a New Standard for Surgical Excellence in Sri Lanka 

with more than 1,000 major surgeries performed each month, Lanka Hospitals is strengthening its position as a leading centre for safe, specialised surgery in Sri Lanka. The hospital combines internationally recognised clinical standards, experienced multidisciplinary teams and structured recovery pathways to help patients move from diagnosis to surgery and back to daily life with greater confidence.
The scale of the hospital's surgical programme is supported by 12 operating theatres, including dedicated facilities for cardiac and neurosurgery. A 50 bed intensive care network, an in house blood bank and round the clock emergency support provide the clinical backup required for both planned and complex procedures. The hospital also maintains sufficient medicine stocks to support uninterrupted treatment, reducing the risk of delays during a patient's surgical journey.
Patient safety begins well before an operation. Surgical teams assess each case through coordinated clinical planning, apply established safety checks and use advanced pain management methods to support comfort after surgery. Where clinically appropriate, minimally invasive techniques are used to reduce tissue trauma, shorten hospital stays and help patients return to normal activity sooner.
Across its specialised centres, Lanka Hospitals has developed substantial experience in cardiac, orthopaedic, neurological, oncological, transplant and metabolic surgery. The hospital has completed more than 10,000 cardiac surgeries and over 800 cardiac interventions, while its cardiac teams now perform more than 70 procedures each month. Dedicated cardiac intensive care facilities support complex operations including coronary artery bypass grafting, valve surgery and procedures for congenital heart conditions.
The hospital's orthopaedic team, comprising more than 35 medical specialists, has completed over 3,000 knee replacement surgeries. Its kidney transplant programme has recorded more than 1,250 successful procedures, supported by transparent clinical processes and strict medical ethics. Lanka Hospitals has also completed more than 450 bariatric surgeries, the highest volume reported by a private hospital in Sri Lanka, helping suitable patients manage obesity related conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure and elevated cholesterol.
In neurological and spinal surgery, close to 100 spine related procedures are carried out each month. For selected patients undergoing minimally invasive treatment,hospitalisation may be limited to approximately 24 hours. Cancer surgery teams also manage breast, thyroid, lung and other cancers with treatment plans focused not only on disease control, but also on preserving function and quality of life wherever possible.
The Surgical Team at Lanka Hospitals said, “A good surgical outcome is not defined by the operation alone. It depends on accurate diagnosis, careful planning, disciplined safety practices and close monitoring during recovery. Our teams work across specialties so that each patient receives care suited to their condition, risks and personal needs.”
For many patients and families, uncertainty about cost can add pressure at an already difficult time. The Lanka Hospitals Surgical Hub provides advance financial guidance and a clearer explanation of expected charges, enabling patients to make informed decisions before admission. The hospital's 24 hour Doc Help Line on 0117 145 145 also gives the public direct access to qualified medical professionals for guidance on health concerns and appropriate next steps.

05.08.2026

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The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce and Cochin Chamber Explore Regional Business Partnerships Across Key Sectors

The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce hosted a business delegation today (4th August) from the Cochin Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI), India, creating direct engagement between Sri Lankan companies and businesses from Kerala to explore new commercial opportunities and strengthen private-sector links.
Established in 1857, the Cochin Chamber is one of India’s oldest business chambers, representing enterprises across a wide range of industries and playing an active role in supporting regional economic growth.
The visiting delegation, comprising CCCI President Vinodini Sukumar, Past President C. S. Kartha, CCCI officials, and leading Indian business representatives, met with Ceylon Chamber Chairperson Krishan Balendra, Secretary General and CEO Shiran Fernando, Deputy Secretary General, Chief Operating Officer and Financial Controller Alikie Perera, and other Ceylon Chamber representatives. The delegation also participated in a B2B networking session with Sri Lankan companies to identify potential areas of cooperation.
The discussions provided a platform for Chamber representatives and business leaders from both countries to exchange perspectives on market opportunities, emerging business trends, and areas where greater collaboration could be developed. Potential partnerships were explored across logistics and shipping, export and import trade, hospital products and supplies, cold storage solutions, advertising and marketing, and the tea industry.
The engagement also highlighted Kerala’s growing industrial and services sectors, supported by its strong base of skilled human capital. Delegates shared insights on the opportunities created by this talent pool and discussed ways businesses in both countries could leverage complementary strengths to build stronger regional connections.
Beyond immediate trade opportunities, discussions focused on the potential for wider collaboration through investment, technology partnerships, knowledge exchange, and business services, reflecting the growing importance of stronger private-sector links between Sri Lanka and India.
Through initiatives such as these, the Ceylon Chamber continues to connect businesses with regional and global partners, creating platforms for meaningful commercial engagement and supporting opportunities for Sri Lankan enterprises to expand their international networks. 

05.08.2026

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SMS Holdings celebrates 25 years of building Sri Lankan excellence

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Mr. Ashan Senevirathne - Director, SMS Holdings (Pvt) Ltd , Mr. Chandima Weerakkody - Former Cabinet Minister of Petroleum & Petroleum Gas, Mr. Prasantha Kularatna - Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Premium International (Pvt) Ltd, Mr. Shehan Senevirathne - Chairman /Managing Director, SMS Holdings (Pvt) Ltd - , Miss Nesha Senevirathne - Director, SMS Holdings (Pvt) Ltd.

What began 25 years ago with a simple observation during a home construction project has evolved into one of Sri Lanka's leading diversified business groups. Celebrating its 25th anniversary, SMS Holdings marks a remarkable entrepreneurial journey that has transformed a single paving stone manufacturing business into a diversified enterprise spanning construction, engineering, landscaping, plantations, hospitality, manufacturing and exports, while remaining steadfast in its commitment to quality, innovation and sustainable national development.

Over the past quarter century, the Group has consistently evolved by embracing innovation, investing in people and expanding into new industries while remaining true to its founding values of quality, integrity and customer trust

Founded by entrepreneur Shehan Senevirathne, SMS Holdings was built on a straightforward yet ambitious vision: to create locally manufactured products that could rival imported alternatives in both quality and durability. Inspired by the lack of quality paving solutions available while undertaking a project at his own home, Senevirathne recognised an opportunity to develop world-class paving products that met international standards while supporting Sri Lankan manufacturing.

Over the past two and a half decades, that vision has steadily expanded beyond its origins.  Today, SMS Holdings has become a trusted partner for numerous public and private sector developments across Sri Lanka, delivering landmark infrastructure, engineering and landscaping projects while diversifying into new industries including plantations, hospitality, exports and premium value-added manufacturing.

The Group's success has been built on consistently delivering quality, fostering long-term relationships and embracing innovation at every stage of its growth. This commitment has earned SMS Holdings more than 38 industry recognitions, alongside internationally recognised certifications including ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, ISO 22000, HACCP, GMP and Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) certification for its premium cinnamon products.

Shehan Senevirathne, Founder, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of SMS Holdings said, "Twenty-five years ago, we started with a simple belief that Sri Lankan businesses could produce products equal to the very best in the world. Every milestone we have achieved since then has been possible because of the dedication of our employees, the trust of our customers, the support of our partners and the confidence placed in us by every stakeholder who has been part of this journey. This anniversary is not only a celebration of our past, but also a commitment to continue building businesses that create sustainable value for Sri Lanka while showcasing authentic Sri Lankan products in international markets.

People have remained at the heart of the organisation's growth, with many employees having developed their careers alongside the company over the years. SMS Holdings continues to invest in its workforce, recognising that sustainable success is built through empowered people, strong partnerships and a shared commitment to excellence.

As part of its continued evolution, the Group has diversified into plantations, hospitality, premium value-added manufacturing and exports, while expanding its international footprint through operations in Australia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Through its premium cinnamon brand, Cinnalon, SMS Holdings is championing authentic True Ceylon Cinnamon and other Sri Lankan products in global markets, reinforcing Sri Lanka's reputation for producing premium-quality exports and strengthening the Group's growing international presence.

Looking ahead, SMS Holdings remains focused on driving innovation, expanding internationally and creating globally recognised Sri Lankan brands while continuing to contribute to employment generation, local manufacturing and economic development. As it celebrates 25 years of growth, SMS Holdings stands as a testament to what can be achieved through entrepreneurial vision, unwavering commitment to quality and the determination to create lasting value for both Sri Lanka and the world.

05.08.2026

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Siyapatha Finance Bolsters Presence in the North with the Chunnakam Branch

Homegrown finance company Siyapatha Finance PLC successfully unveiled its 65th branch in Chunnakam, Jaffna, further strengthening the Company’s presence in the Northern region of Sri Lanka.
The branch was declared open by Siyapatha Finance PLC Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Mathisha Hewavitharana, in the presence of Chief Operating Officer (COO) Mr. Rajeev De Silva, Ms.P.Shanmugapriya, student of Alaveddy Arunodaya College who won the Under-18 Girls' Pole Vault event at the All Island School Championship. Senior Management and staff members as well as Chunnakam Police ASP Mr.Nalin Diluk, Trade Association Member Mr. Aanantharooban, representatives of the government and private banks and insurance companies and well-wishers.
Speaking at the ceremony, Siyapatha Finance PLC CEO Mr. Mathisha Hewavitharana noted: “Chunnakam first captured our attention as a steadily developing town in the heart of the Valikamam division in the Jaffna Peninsula and a high-potential economic landscape significantly driven by foreign remittances. The region has rapidly gained traction as a central commercial hub in the district over the past few years. As always, our expansion strategy is rooted in the impact we make on each community’s standard of living and how far we commit to make that a reality. It’s been an absolute honour to be able to create new opportunities of financial freedom, stability, and growth across the region as well as the nation, and I express my sincere gratitude to everyone who has been a part of this cause.”
Boasting a comprehensive product portfolio catering to the ever-evolving financial needs of entrepreneurs, small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs), and ambitious individuals, the Chunnakam branch offers a range of services including leasing, fixed deposits, gold financing, business loans, personal loans, fast draft, factoring, and Smart Pay facility, flexible financial solutions.
Siyapatha Finance PLC, the largest fully owned subsidiary of the Sampath Bank Group, boasts an islandwide network of branches, ensuring its customers are provided with the best-in-service delivery standards. The Company has secured a National Long-Term Rating of ‘A(lka)’ with a Stable Outlook by Fitch Ratings, reflecting solid financial standing and promising growth trajectory. Over the past 21st  years, Siyapatha Finance PLC has contributed to the development of small and medium entrepreneurial efforts as well as the fulfilment of individual financial needs across the island.
Get in touch with the Chunnakam branch on 0214658625 or visit the premises at No.108, Mukanthiran Narayanar Veethy (K.K. S Road), Chunnakam for further details. For more information on Siyapatha Finance, visit the official website at www.siyapatha.lk.

04.08.2026

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Sri Lanka Economic & Investment Summit 2026 to Spotlight Investment Opportunities and Economic Reform

The Sri Lanka Economic & Investment Summit 2026 (SLEIS 2026), organised by The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, will open with a high-level Investment-Focused Panel Discussion, bringing together leaders from the public and private sectors to examine Sri Lanka's investment landscape and the opportunities emerging as the country advances its economic reform agenda.
The session, which will be held on the opening day of the Summit, will explore opportunities across priority sectors, the policy, regulatory and institutional support available to investors, and the reforms needed to strengthen Sri Lanka's competitiveness as an investment destination. It will also examine how stronger collaboration between government and the private sector can accelerate investment, drive economic growth and create long-term value for the country.
The panel will feature Krishan Balendra – Chairperson, The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, Mangala Wijesinghe – Chairman, Export Development Board, Somasena Mahadiulwewa - Director General of Commerce (Actg), and Vish Govindasamy - Board Member, Board of Investment.
Beyond the panel discussion, the Summit has been designed to facilitate direct engagement between investors, government institutions and the private sector. Investors will have the opportunity to connect with key investment promotion agencies, regulatory authorities and business representatives, providing a platform to discuss investment opportunities, understand available support mechanisms and explore potential partnerships.
Dedicated business-to-business (B2B) meetings and networking sessions will further enable participants to engage with relevant institutions and companies, creating opportunities for investment facilitation, business collaborations and long-term commercial relationships.
Held under the theme "Positioning Sri Lanka in a Changing Global Economy: Resilience, Reform, and the Future of Economic Policy," the Sri Lanka Economic & Investment Summit 2026 will take place on 12 and 13 October 2026 at the Shangri-La Colombo.

Registrations are now open. To register, visit https://sleis.chamber.lk/

04.08.2026

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Janashakthi Finance Launches ‘Project Compass’ to Drive Customer-Centric Service Transformation

Janashakthi Finance PLC, a subsidiary of JXG (Janashakthi Group), has launched 'Project Compass', a strategic service transformation initiative aimed at enhancing customer experience, strengthening internal processes, and fostering a culture of service excellence across the organization.
The initiative was officially launched through a dedicated workshop attended by the company's corporate leadership and management team, marking the beginning of a comprehensive transformation journey designed to place customers at the heart of its operations.
Conducted in collaboration with Blue Mango Partners, the workshop served as the first phase of a broader programme that will be rolled out in stages over the coming months. The initiative is expected to equip employees with the tools, skills, and mindset required to deliver superior customer service while improving operational efficiency throughout the organization.
Project Compass reflects Janashakthi Finance's commitment to building a customer-first culture by aligning its people, processes, and service standards with evolving customer expectations. Through the programme, the company aims to strengthen organizational capabilities and drive meaningful, long-term transformation.
The company believes the initiative will not only enhance the overall customer experience but also reinforce its position as a trusted financial services provider by embedding service excellence into every aspect of its business.
With Project Compass now underway, Janashakthi Finance is taking another significant step towards delivering innovative, customer-focused financial solutions while continuing its journey of organizational growth and operational excellence.

04.08.2026

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From Maliban Handiya to the Nation: This Weekend, It Travelled Nationwide

For generations, Sri Lankans had known the taste of Maliban. In a first-of-its-kind initiative, the brand took another deeply familiar part of its identity beyond Ratmalana: the distinctive aroma of freshly baked Maliban biscuits.
For more than 70 years, the scent surrounding Maliban Handiya had been part of the daily experience of those who lived, worked, and travelled through the area. Named after the Maliban factory located nearby, the junction had become closely associated with the warm and comforting aroma of freshly baked biscuits. It was a sensory memory well known to the surrounding community, but one that many Sri Lankans outside Ratmalana had only heard of, but never experienced.
To mark its recognition as the No. 1 Most Loved Product Brand in the LMD Readers' Choice Most Loved Brands 2026, Maliban extended this iconic scent to communities across the island through a unique nationwide activation.
The familiar Maliban aroma was recreated at selected public locations across Sri Lanka, including bus stops, highway exits, cinemas, and other high-footfall spaces. Across the island, specially designed scent installations using liquid evaporisers spread the unmistakable aroma of freshly baked Maliban biscuits, with locations such as Pettah, Makumbura, Kandy, Kurunegala, Galle, and Anuradhapura among those bringing the experience to the public. At selected highway exits, travellers also received specially curated packs of Maliban biscuits infused with the iconic "Maliban Suwada," creating a complete sensory experience that brought together scent, taste, memory, and brand familiarity.

The initiative transformed one of Maliban's most distinctive yet previously localised brand assets into a shared national experience. By bringing the familiar aroma of Maliban Handiya beyond Ratmalana for the first time, the brand gave thousands of Sri Lankans the opportunity to experience a place that had long been recognised as much for its scent as for its name.
Commenting on the initiative, Positha Perera, Group Head, Corporate Communications at Maliban Group of Companies, stated, "The scent of freshly baked biscuits at Maliban Handiya has been part of our story for decades. It carries memories of home, school days, tea tables, family gatherings, and everyday moments shared across generations. As Sri Lanka's Most Loved Product Brand, we wanted to take this familiar experience beyond Ratmalana and share it with people across the country."
The activation celebrated Maliban's long-standing relationship with Sri Lankan consumers and the trust built through more than seven decades of quality, consistency, and care.
By taking the Maliban scent across Sri Lanka, the brand did not simply recreate the aroma of freshly baked biscuits. It shared a familiar memory and turned locations across the country into warm, meaningful meeting points inspired by Maliban Handiya.

02.08.2026

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David Pieris Automobiles unveils all-new BAIC X3e

David Pieris Automobiles (Private) Limited, the four-wheeler sales arm of David Pieris Group of Companies, unveiled the all-new BAIC X3e, a fully electric crossover/SUV, at the Auto Vision Motor Show 2026 held at the BMICH, marking another significant step towards making electric mobility more accessible to Sri Lankan motorists.
Developed around the campaign platform "The EV That Makes Life Easy," the BAIC X3E has been designed to simplify the transition to electric driving by combining modern technology, everyday practicality and exceptional value.
The BAIC X3e is tailored to meet the needs of today's drivers, offering low running costs, a practical driving range, fast charging capability, a spacious family-friendly interior, intelligent safety and driver assistance technologies and the trusted after-sales support of David Pieris Automobiles. Together, these features make electric mobility easier, more convenient and more affordable for Sri Lankan families.
The vehicle features a bold and modern crossover design, a spacious and versatile cabin, a smart digital cockpit with advanced connectivity, Level 2 driver assistance technologies, efficient electric performance, comprehensive safety features, fast charging capability and an intelligent auto parking system.
Commenting on the launch, Mr. Mahesh Gunathilake, Director of David Pieris Automobiles (Private) Limited, said; "The BAIC X3e has been developed for customers who are looking to embrace electric mobility without compromising on practicality, comfort or affordability. At David Pieris Automobiles, we believe the future of mobility should be accessible to everyone and the X3e delivers exactly that. Supported by our islandwide sales and after-sales network, customers can confidently make the switch to electric with the assurance of reliable service and long-term support."
David Pieris Automobiles has already established a comprehensive after-sales support network for BAIC customers, including genuine spare parts, scheduled maintenance, repairs and technical assistance. A fully dedicated BAIC workshop operates at Hyde Park Corner, Colombo, supported by an islandwide dealer and service network.
The flagship BAIC showroom is located on Pannipitiya Road, Battaramulla, with branches in Kurunegala, Matara, Ratnapura and Kandy, ensuring convenient access to sales and after-sales services across the country.

02.08.20269

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Toyota Lanka Accelerates Growth with Launch of All-New Hilux and RAV4 2026

Toyota Lanka has strengthened its position in Sri Lanka's automotive market with the launch of the All-New Toyota Hilux and All-New Toyota RAV4 2026, reinforcing its long-term commitment to delivering world-class mobility solutions and expanding its nationwide presence.
The two flagship models were unveiled at the company's exclusive "Unlocked" launch event held at Toyota Plaza, Wattala, where more than 250 business partners, customers, industry stakeholders and media representatives gathered to witness the introduction of Toyota's latest vehicles to the Sri Lankan market.
The launch represents another strategic milestone for Toyota Lanka, the sole authorized distributor of Toyota brand-new vehicles in Sri Lanka, as it continues to broaden its portfolio with globally acclaimed models designed to meet the country's evolving transportation needs.
Speaking through the significance of the launch, Toyota Lanka emphasized its commitment to bringing internationally recognized vehicles equipped with advanced technology, enhanced safety systems and Toyota's globally respected standards of quality, durability and reliability to local customers.
The Toyota Hilux, renowned worldwide for its toughness and dependability, is expected to appeal strongly to commercial users and businesses seeking a reliable workhorse capable of handling Sri Lanka's varied terrain. Meanwhile, the Toyota RAV4, one of the world's most popular sport utility vehicles and the best-selling SUV in the United States, combines modern design, advanced technology and everyday practicality for family and lifestyle users.
Both models have been specially adapted to suit Sri Lanka's tropical climate and diverse road conditions, offering improved performance, safety and driving comfort.
Toyota Lanka said the launch also reflects its transformation from a conventional vehicle distributor into a comprehensive mobility and logistics solutions provider. Over the past three decades, the company has supplied Toyota vehicles, delivered millions of quality service experiences and maintained an extensive genuine spare parts network, supporting customers throughout the ownership lifecycle.
The "Unlocked" event also showcased Toyota's broader range of passenger and commercial vehicles while giving visitors an opportunity to experience the company's latest automotive technologies and customer-focused innovations. The initiative aligns with Toyota's global vision of creating "Mobility Happiness for All" through safe, reliable and sustainable transportation solutions.
A key pillar of Toyota Lanka's growth strategy is the continued expansion of its nationwide network. The company currently operates more than 20 facilities across Sri Lanka, providing sales, servicing, genuine spare parts and aftersales support. It plans to increase this network to more than 30 branches by the end of 2026, improving accessibility and customer convenience while strengthening aftersales services across the island.
Toyota Lanka's consistent performance has earned recognition from both Toyota Motor Asia Pacific and Toyota Motor Corporation, Japan. The company has received accolades including the Highest Vehicle Sales Record, Customer Delight Excellence Award, Sales & Marketing Award, and recognition for 30 Years of Excellence.
The company has also achieved notable local recognition, including being named Sri Lanka's No. 1 Product Brand in the LMD Brands Annual 2025, winning the Most Loved Brand Award at the LMD Readers' Choice Awards 2026, and securing a place among the Top 10 Best Employers in Sri Lanka.
Driven by Toyota's global vision of "Mobility for All" and its corporate values of Loyalty, Integrity, Fairness and Ethicality, Toyota Lanka says it will continue investing in innovative mobility solutions while enhancing customer satisfaction and long-term ownership experiences.
With the introduction of the All-New Hilux and RAV4 2026, Toyota Lanka has not only refreshed its product lineup but also reaffirmed its ambition to lead the country's evolving mobility sector through innovation, expanded customer support and globally trusted automotive excellence.

02.08.2026

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Prime Group Expands Islandwide Network with New Customer Service Branch in Gampaha

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Prime Group has strengthened its nationwide presence with the opening of a new branch in Gampaha, further expanding customer access to its real estate services in one of Sri Lanka's fastest-growing commercial and residential districts.
Located at No. 6, Mangala Road, Gampaha, the new office is the company's eighth branch and is expected to serve as a key customer service centre for property buyers and investors in the region. The branch will provide a full range of real estate services and will be open to customers from 8.30 a.m. daily.
The latest expansion reflects Prime Group's continued investment in improving customer accessibility while strengthening its presence across the country. Designed with modern facilities and digital technologies, the branch aims to offer a convenient and efficient customer experience for those seeking land, housing and apartment investment opportunities.
Commenting on the expansion, Prime Group Chief Executive Officer Ruminda Randeniya said Gampaha has played an important role in the company's history, as it was the location of its first-ever land development project when the business was established three decades ago.
He noted that the opening of a dedicated branch represents an important step in the company's long-term growth strategy, particularly as Gampaha continues to develop into a major commercial and transportation hub along the Central Expressway corridor.
Prime Group has maintained a strong presence in Gampaha for nearly 30 years, delivering thousands of real estate developments despite not previously operating a permanent branch in the district. According to the company, it has completed more than 3,000 land development projects and 12 housing and apartment developments across Gampaha, serving a broad range of customer needs.
The company's portfolio in the district includes residential and mixed-use developments such as Yolo, Venezia, J'adore, The Palace, The Life, Prime Evoke and Prime Kadawatha, the latter positioned near the Kadawatha Interchange to provide convenient connectivity to other parts of the country. Prime Kadawatha is also recognised as the area's only high-rise apartment development.
The Gampaha branch follows the successful opening of Prime Group's Kalutara branch in late 2025 and forms part of the company's broader strategy to expand its customer service network across Sri Lanka.
Celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, Prime Group continues to pursue strategic investments and innovative developments aimed at strengthening Sri Lanka's real estate sector. The company has also expanded its presence through major projects, including investments in Port City Colombo, as it seeks to position Sri Lankan real estate on the international stage.
With the opening of its newest branch, Prime Group expects to provide customers in Gampaha and surrounding areas with easier access to professional real estate advice and a wider range of property investment opportunities.

01.08.2026

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Solo Bowl and Indian Affair Expand Giga Foods' Presence in Malabe

Giga Foods has expanded its multi-brand portfolio in Malabe with the opening of Solo Bowl and Indian Affair at its newest location, further enhancing the dining choices available to one of Sri Lanka's fastest-growing communities.
The expansion reflects the company's strategy of making its diverse restaurant concepts more accessible while catering to evolving consumer preferences. By introducing two distinct brands under one location, Giga Foods continues to strengthen its presence in key urban centres and provide greater convenience for customers.
Solo Bowl offers a contemporary menu featuring wholesome rice bowls, fried rice, pasta, salads and Asian-inspired favourites, appealing to customers seeking fresh, convenient meals for everyday dining. Indian Affair complements the offering with authentic Indian cuisine, including its signature biryanis, flavourful curries and traditional favourites prepared with aromatic spices and authentic recipes.
The new outlets are positioned to serve the area's expanding residential, educational and business communities, providing customers with greater variety and quality through two well-established brands.
As Malabe continues to experience rapid development, the latest openings demonstrate Giga Foods' ongoing investment in meeting customer demand through strategic expansion and operational excellence. Beyond increasing accessibility, the company remains committed to delivering consistent quality, innovation and memorable dining experiences across its growing network of brands.
The addition of Solo Bowl and Indian Affair reinforces Giga Foods' vision of creating diverse food experiences while contributing to the continued growth of Sri Lanka's modern restaurant industry.

01.08.2026

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Driving Progress: CDB Powers the Ceylon Automobile Importers Association’s First-Ever Motor Rally in Sri Lanka

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Ceylon Automobile Importers Association - Nandana Kumara (Assistant Treasurer), Kasun Suriyapperuma (Treasurer),  Ruchira Kaluarachchi (Assistant Secretary), Thilanga Polwatta (Secretary),  Prasad Manage (President) Citizens Development Business Finance PLC (CDB)Citizens Development Business Finance PLC (CDB) - Mahesh Nanayakkara (Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer), Sasindra Munasinghe (Executive Director - Sales & Business Development), Hasitha Dassanayake (Chief Sales and Digital Business Officer), Isanka Kotigala (General Manager - Sales and Business Development), Lalith Peiris (Deputy General Manager - Lending Asset Portfolio Sales)

Accelerating momentum and steering Sri Lanka’s automotive future, Citizens Development Business Finance PLC (CDB) has signed a strategic partnership with the Ceylon Automobile Importers Association of Sri Lanka as Title Partner for the landmark Ceylon Automobile Importers’ Motor Rally 2026. This landmark event, the first rally organized by the Association, will take place on 16th August, beginning at Port City Colombo and concluding at Water’s Edge.
The rally will showcase over 200 branded vehicles, including supercars, luxury automobiles, and premium imports from leading vehicle importers registered with the Association. The convoy will traverse Colombo’s key routes – including Duplication Road, Moratuwa, Boralasgamuwa, Kohuwala, and Rajagiriya – passing major car sales hubs before reaching its grand finale.

Speaking on the partnership, Executive Director - Sales and Business Development of CDB Sasindra Munasinghe said: “CDB partners with the Ceylon Automobile Importers Association in powering this historic rally. Together with the Association, we are at the forefront of driving vehicle ownership and increasing access to mobility across Sri Lanka. As a progressive financial solutions provider, we remain committed to supporting the growth of the automobile industry while enabling greater access to mobility through innovative financial products. This rally is not just a celebration of automobiles, but a testament to the industry's evolution, resilience, and future potential.”

Echoing this sentiment, President of the Automobile Importers Association Prasad Manage stated: “The Ceylon Automotive Importers Motor Rally powered by CDB marks a new chapter for Sri Lanka’s automotive landscape. With the support of CDB and our other partners, we are able to bring together leading brands and enthusiasts in a dynamic showcase that highlights luxury, performance and innovation. This partnership strengthens our mission to elevate the industry and create engaging experiences for the public.”

The Automobile Importers’ Rally 2026 promises to be one of the most anticipated automotive events in the country, celebrating the evolution of Sri Lanka’s automobile sector while reinforcing CDB’s role as a trusted partner in driving progress and innovation.

Citizens Development Business Finance PLC (CDB) stands among the top four largest Non-Banking Financial Institutions (NBFIs) in Sri Lanka. CDB is recognized for its innovation in financial services, steadfast commitment to sustainability, and adherence to exemplary corporate governance. With a focus on digital transformation, CDB continues to redefine the financial services landscape by offering cutting-edge solutions that align with sustainable development goals.

01.08.2026

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ADRA Ceylon Elevates Ceylon Tea from Commodity to Customised Global Product

As global demand for beverages evolves beyond traditional bulk commodities, ADRA Ceylon, a leading Sri Lankan tea exporter and a cornerstone of the Pink Eagle Group, is strategically repositioning Ceylon Tea. The company is moving aggressively from conventional bulk exports towards becoming a solutions partner for global brands, specializing in private label manufacturing, customized blends, and emerging categories such as bubble tea bases and wellness infusions. This shift underscores a broader trend towards value addition within Sri Lanka’s tea export sector, with significant implications for enhanced export earnings and market diversification.
Traditionally, Sri Lanka's tea industry has excelled in producing high-quality bulk tea. However, changing consumer preferences and intense global competition necessitate a pivot towards differentiated, value-added products. ADRA Ceylon, founded by Mr. Asitha Silva, has anticipated this shift, developing a robust strategy to meet these new market demands head-on.
At the heart of ADRA Ceylon’s strategy is its role as a comprehensive solutions partner. The company has invested in advanced capabilities to offer private label tea manufacturing, allowing international brands to develop and market their unique Ceylon tea products without extensive in-house infrastructure. This flexibility extends to highly customized tea blends, incorporating herbs, natural fruits, and flowers, meticulously crafted to resonate with diverse regional preferences, cultures, and consumer moods globally.
"The global tea landscape is dynamic; consumers seek unique experiences and products tailored to their lifestyles," states Mr. Asitha Silva, Founder of ADRA Ceylon. "Our focus is to empower brands worldwide by offering innovative solutions. We're not just exporting tea; we're providing the expertise and infrastructure for our partners to create distinctive, market-ready products that reflect the true character of Ceylon tea, elevated for modern tastes."
ADRA Ceylon is at the forefront of product diversification into wellness and lifestyle trends. The company specializes in creating specialty base solutions for bubble tea and other modern beverages, tapping into rapidly growing segments. Furthermore, it is actively developing new lines of herbal infusions and wellness teas, utilizing Sri Lankan herbs and natural ingredients to cater to health-conscious consumers. This innovation extends to premium gifting ranges with sophisticated packaging options, further elevating the perceived value of Ceylon Tea.
This strategic pivot is enabled by ADRA Ceylon's robust operational backbone. The company operates state-of-the-art blending, packaging, and storage facilities that adhere to stringent international food safety and quality standards, backed by certifications such as ISO 22000, HACCP, GMP, Rainforest Alliance, Halal, and FDA approval. A highly experienced management and operational team, with over two decades of industry expertise in manufacturing, blending, tasting, and exporting, ensures the consistent delivery of premium, customized products.
The implications of ADRA Ceylon’s strategy extend beyond its own growth, holding significant promise for Sri Lanka’s national export earnings. By moving up the value chain from commodity to customized and branded products, the company contributes to higher revenue per kilogram of tea exported, enhances the global reputation of Ceylon Tea, and strengthens Sri Lanka's position as an innovative supplier in the international beverage market.
As ADRA Ceylon continues its trajectory of innovation and global expansion, it is actively shaping the future of Sri Lanka’s tea export industry. The company's commitment to quality, customization, and market-driven product development positions Ceylon Tea as a versatile, premium ingredient and product, ready for the demands of the modern global consumer.

30.07.2026

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Binance Expands Regulated Trading Portfolio with Gold and Silver Commodity Options

Global cryptocurrency exchange Binance has announced the launch of commodity options on gold and silver, expanding its regulated trading ecosystem and providing users with new crypto-native tools to manage risk and diversify their investment portfolios.
The new offering will be available through Nest Exchange Limited, Binance's Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)-regulated Recognized Investment Exchange, further strengthening the company's presence in regulated traditional finance (TradFi) products.
The launch follows strong market demand for Binance's commodity perpetual futures introduced earlier this year. With the addition of commodity options, users can now trade both perpetual futures and options using the same Binance account and USDT balance, creating a more seamless trading experience.
According to Shunyet Jan, Head of Exchange and Trading at Binance, the introduction of commodity options comes at a time when investors are increasingly turning to gold as a hedge against inflation and economic uncertainty.
"We've seen strong demand for our commodity perpetuals since introducing them earlier this year, and commodity options build on that momentum. With gold reaching record highs, investors are seeking new ways to diversify beyond traditional equities while remaining within a regulated trading environment," Jan said.
The platform will initially offer European-style, USDT-settled options linked to physical gold and silver, enabling traders to implement more sophisticated investment and risk-management strategies.
Retail investors will only be permitted to purchase (long) options, ensuring that their maximum possible loss is limited to the premium paid and eliminating the liquidation risks associated with short positions. Eligible institutional investors and liquidity providers, however, will be able to write options, allowing them to earn premiums while employing advanced portfolio management strategies.
Trading will operate from Sunday 6:00 p.m. ET to Friday 5:00 p.m. ET, with a daily one-hour maintenance break between 5:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. ET.
Binance stated that the new products will operate under strict regulatory and compliance standards, including Know Your Customer (KYC) and Know Your Business (KYB) requirements, market surveillance, sanctions screening, and comprehensive user protection measures. The company will also provide educational resources and transparent risk disclosures to help users better understand options trading.
The launch reflects Binance's continued efforts to bridge the gap between cryptocurrency markets and traditional finance by offering regulated investment products that provide investors with greater flexibility while maintaining high compliance standards.
As digital assets and conventional financial markets continue to converge, Binance believes the introduction of commodity options marks another significant step toward expanding access to regulated, crypto-native investment opportunities linked to globally recognised assets such as gold and silver.

30.07.2026

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Siddhalepa Ayurveda Products and Health Resort Honoured with Prestigious GlobalHealth Sri Lanka Awards 2026

Siddhalepa Ayurveda product range and Siddhalepa Ayurveda Health Resort have been honoured with two prestigious accolades at the inaugural GlobalHealth Asia-Pacific Sri Lanka Conference & Awards 2026. Siddhalepa Ayurveda products received the "Excellence in Herbal Wellness & Functional Nutrition in Sri Lanka" award, while Siddhalepa Ayurveda Health Resort was recognised as the "Holistic Health & Wellness Service Provider of the Year in Sri Lanka."
The awards were presented during the GlobalHealth Sri Lanka Awards Gala held at ITC Ratnadipa, Colombo, on 21 July 2026. The event brought together regional healthcare leaders, policymakers, clinical experts, and wellness professionals to celebrate excellence, ethics, and innovation across the healthcare and wellness sectors through a rigorous nomination-only evaluation process led by an esteemed international and local jury.
GlobalHealth Asia-Pacific is a premier regional platform dedicated to connecting healthcare providers, aesthetic centres, wellness destinations, and policymakers across more than 14 countries. The GlobalHealth Sri Lanka Awards celebrate organisations that uphold the highest standards of professional practice, ethical governance, service excellence, and patient-centred innovation.
The recognition awarded to Siddhalepa Ayurveda products celebrates more than nine decades of pioneering authentic Ayurvedic healthcare through herbal products that have become synonymous with trust, quality, and natural healing. Built upon Sri Lanka's rich indigenous Ayurvedic knowledge and refined through generations of expertise, research, and innovation, the Siddhalepa Ayurveda product range has brought the benefits of authentic Ayurveda into the daily lives of consumers in Sri Lanka and across the world.
Combining time-honoured Ayurvedic wisdom with modern scientific research, stringent quality assurance, and responsible manufacturing practices, Siddhalepa Ayurveda products have continually evolved to address the changing health and well-being needs of consumers while preserving the integrity of traditional Ayurveda. This commitment has enabled the Siddhalepa Ayurveda product range to become one of Sri Lanka's most recognised Ayurvedic offerings.
From its origins in Sri Lanka over 90 years ago, Siddhalepa Ayurveda products have grown into a globally recognised representation of Sri Lankan Ayurveda. Trusted by generations and embraced internationally, the product range continues to carry Sri Lanka's healing heritage beyond its shores, offering natural healthcare solutions that have become part of everyday lifestyles around the world.
Complementing this achievement, Siddhalepa Ayurveda Health Resort was honoured with the "Holistic Health & Wellness Service Provider of the Year in Sri Lanka" award. The recognition acknowledges the resort's commitment to delivering authentic Ayurvedic healing experiences through personalised treatments, therapeutic programmes, and holistic care that combines traditional practices with modern hospitality standards. Building on Siddhalepa's decades of expertise in developing authentic Ayurvedic products, the Health Resort puts this accumulated knowledge and experience into practice through customised wellness solutions, applying time-tested Ayurvedic principles to create meaningful healing journeys for guests.
Commenting on the achievement, Asoka Hettigoda, Chairman and Managing Director of Siddhalepa Group, said, "These recognitions reaffirm our commitment to preserving the authenticity of Sri Lankan Ayurveda while ensuring its benefits continue to reach people in meaningful ways. Through our herbal healthcare products, we have taken Sri Lanka's Ayurvedic heritage to consumers across the world, while Siddhalepa Ayurveda Health Resort continues to offer authentic healing experiences that showcase the true value of Ayurveda. We are honoured to receive these awards on behalf of our dedicated team and the generations of customers who have placed their trust in Siddhalepa."
These two recognitions reinforce Siddhalepa's enduring commitment to advancing authentic Ayurveda, with its internationally recognised product range continuing to carry Sri Lanka's Ayurvedic heritage to consumers around the world, while Siddhalepa Ayurveda Health Resort showcases the country's rich tradition of holistic healing through authentic Ayurveda experiences. 

29.07.2026

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Janashakthi Life named among Sri Lanka’s 50 Best Workplaces™ for 2026 by Great Place To Work®

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Ravi Liyanage – Director/CEO – Janashakthi Insurance PLC, Danushka Seneth D. Samarasinghe - Head of Human Resources at Janashakthi Insurance PLC

Janashakthi Life, the flagship life insurance company of JXG (Janashakthi Group), has been recognised among Sri Lanka’s 50 Best Workplaces™ for 2026 by Great Place To Work® Sri Lanka. The 50 recognised workplaces comprise 17 Large, 13 Medium, 10 Small, and 10 Micro workplaces, with Janashakthi Life recognised in the Medium category, comprising organisations with 251–500 employees.
Janashakthi Life’s recognition reflects the strength of its workplace culture and leadership, as well as its continued focus on fostering an inclusive environment where employees feel respected, supported, and empowered to grow. The results highlight collaboration, a strong sense of belonging, long-term association with the organisation, and a fun and engaging workplace as key strengths of its culture.
The recognition is based on the Great Place To Work® Trust Index™ Employee Experience Survey, which evaluates employees’ experiences of trust, pride, and workplace relationships, alongside a Culture Audit™ that assesses the organisation’s people practices. The Trust Index™ contributes 75% of the overall score, while the Culture Audit™ accounts for the remaining 25%. Janashakthi Life’s inclusion follows its Great Place To Work® Certified™ status and an 88% Employee Trust Index™ score achieved in 2025, reinforcing the consistency of its employee experience and workplace practices.
“Being recognised among Sri Lanka’s 50 Best Workplaces™, together with the strong sense of inclusivity and camaraderie experienced by our employees, reflects the strength of our culture and the leadership philosophy that shapes our workplace. The endorsement of our employees is a great encouragement to further strengthen our workplace and reinforce the values we all live by. Our values of respect, collaboration, and integrity are strongly reflected in the Great Place To Work® workplace health indicators, while being performance-driven and embracing innovation remain firmly embedded in our culture. It is particularly encouraging to note that our team members feel they are given equal opportunities, empowered to contribute, and supported with the guidance needed to reach their fullest potential,” said Ravi Liyanage, Director/CEO of Janashakthi Insurance PLC.
“This achievement reflects the collective commitment of our people and leaders to building a people-centred and values-driven culture where wellbeing, growth, and high performance go hand in hand. We remain committed to further strengthening this culture and the employee experience,” said Danushka Seneth D. Samarasinghe, Head of Human Resources at Janashakthi Insurance PLC.
Janashakthi Life has long been recognised as a caring employer, with performance and innovation equally embedded in its culture. Its people strategy is anchored in bringing the organisation’s core values to life through the everyday employee experience, underpinned by proactive and progressive practices that evolve with changing workforce expectations.
Central to this is the continuous reskilling and upskilling of people managers at all levels, recognising their critical role in shaping culture, developing talent, and enabling performance. Continuous learning and growth provide employees with opportunities to realise their potential, while flexible and hybrid ways of working offer greater autonomy and accommodate differing needs. An open and collaborative work environment further encourages participation, the exchange of ideas, and innovation across the organisation.
Meaningful engagement and holistic wellbeing are integral to this experience, with initiatives designed to foster creativity, connection, and a genuine sense of belonging, while supporting employees beyond their roles at work. Recognising the diversity of its workforce and the differing expectations that come with it, Janashakthi Life avoids a one-size-fits-all approach, tailoring initiatives to different employee segments and needs to create an experience that remains relevant, inclusive, and meaningful.

28.07.2026

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Swadeshi Khomba illuminates Kiri Vehera & Ruhunu Maha Kataragama Devalaya at Kataragama for the 25th consecutive year and educational light for the school children in the area

Chairperson of Swadeshi Ms. Amari Wijewardene, Deputy Chairperson/Managing Director of Swadeshi Ms. Chulodhara Samarasinghe, Chief Incumbent of Kirivehera Rajamaha Viharaya in Kataragama Venerable Kobawaka Dhamminda Thera, Basnayaka Nilame of Ruhunu Maha Kataragama Devalaya Mr. Thilina Madushanka, Distributor of Swadeshi Mr. Thushara, General Manager – Corporate Affairs & Marketing Mr. Chaminda Jayasinghe and officials from Swadeshi graced the occasion.

The 2026 Esala festivals of the Kataragama Kiri Vehera and the Ruhunu Kataragama Maha Devalaya, two important places of worship in Sri Lanka, are being illuminated by The Swadeshi Industrial Works PLC the pioneer herbal - personal care products manufacturer. The illumination is done under the theme of “Swadeshi Khomba Aloka Puja Sathkaraya”

The events began on July 15th and end on July 29th 2026, and Swadeshi is sponsoring the Aloka Poojawa for the 25th consecutive year.

Ms. Amari Wijewardene, Chairperson of Swadeshi said that as a Sri Lankan owned company, we consider it a duty to safeguard the culture and traditional heritage of Sri Lanka by supporting activities such as this annual Aloka Poojawa.

She further observed that, Swadeshi illuminates places of worship in the country for the benefit of all worshippers and also to educate the younger generation on the importance of safeguarding the country’s heritage. The illumination is followed by a colourful cultural pageant which highlights Sri Lankan traditions and history. 

Several activities were conducted to commemorate the 25 years of “Swadeshi Khomba Aloka Puja Sathkaraya” by giving an arms giving for priests at Kiri Vehera and educational tabs for the school children in Kataragama area. An appreciation award was presented to Chairperson of Swadeshi Ms. Amari Wijewardene, for the 25 years of Aloka Puja by Chief Incumbent of Kirivehera Rajamaha Viharaya in Kataragama Venerable Kobawaka Dhamminda Thera.

According to the Mahavamsa, Kiri Vehera was built by King Mahanaga in a commemoration of the Buddha’s visit to Kataragama Kihiri Uyana to deliver dharma during his third visit to Sri Lanka.

The Kataragama Devalaya was built by King Dutugemunu as a fulfilment of a vow made to safeguard the national interests of Sri Lanka. The Lord Kataragama is worshipped by people of different races and religions not only in Sri Lanka but also in various parts of the world.

In 2013 the ‘Sri Dalada Maligawa’ of historic Dambadeni Raja Maha Viharaya, where the sacred tooth relic was kept and the ancient murals, were renovated by Swadeshi Chairperson Ms. Amari Wijewardene to bring back its past glory.
Ms. Amari Wijewardene is the great granddaughter of Helena Wijewardene Lamatheni, who initiated renovations of the Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya in 1927.
Swadeshi also supports the annual Aloka Poojawa of Devundara Sri Vishnu Maha Devalaya, Aluth Nuwara Dadimunda Devalaya, Mahanuwara Sri Vishnu Maha Devalaya, Sabaragamu Maha Saman Devalaya, Redigama Ridi Viharaya, Lankathilaka Raja Maha Viharaya, Gadaladeniya Raja Maha Viharaya, Deraniyagala Saman Devalaya, Sankapali Raja Maha Viharaya, Kolambagama Raja Maha Viharaya, Dambadeniya Raja Maha Viharaya, Attanagalla Raja Maha Viharaya and Keragala Raja Maha Viharaya.

As a Sri Lankan company Swadeshi continues its nation building and community CSR projects for our Sri Lankan communities. The Swadeshi Khomba brand is dedicated to carrying out sustainability projects which focus on caring for Mother Nature and enhancing cultural values. Company’s many community outreach initiatives include, Island wide annual lighting ceremony of temples “Swadeshi Khomba Aloka Puja Sathkaraya”, “Swadeshi Khomba Mihithala Sathkaraya” kohomba tree planting campaigns, “Swadeshi Khomba Gamata Sathkaraya” donation of water tanks for the communities, schools and temples in dry zone of Sri Lanka and “Swadeshi Khomba Baby Mathru Sathkaraya” awareness program on baby care and Swadeshi Khomba Baby care gifts to pregnant mothers.

“As the country’s leading herbal personal care products company, we would like consumers to learn more about the functional benefits of the herbal ingredients used by Swadeshi in all its products, we use only the best of Sri Lankan herbs, and all ingredients are extensively researched, and the products fully tested to ensure quality and all our products are 100% Vegetarian, Not tested on animals and Cruelty free. Swadeshi products including Swadeshi Khomba, Rani Sandalwood and Swadeshi Khomba Baby are accredited by the Vegetarian Society, UK.” This stands testament to the company’s forward-thinking practices, as well as our desire to help consumers make ethical and eco-friendly choices. The company has always considered the health and environmental impact of its products, and continues to prioritize it. Swadeshi, a truly Sri Lankan company has claimed many industry firsts to its name during past 85 years.

The pioneer and market leader in the herbal personal care category in Sri Lanka, The Swadeshi Industrial Works PLC, was incorporated in 1941.  Among the brands of Swadeshi are Swadeshi Khomba, Rani Sandalwood, Swadeshi Khomba Baby, Perlwite, Lak Bar, Safeplus, Black Eagle Perfume, Little Princes, Lady, Khomba Body Wash and Rani Shower Cream range. The company manufactures and markets the No. 01 herbal personal care brand in Sri Lanka ‘Khomba Herbal’ and heritage beauty brand ‘Rani Sandalwood’.

All Swadeshi products are registered under National Medicines Regulatory Authority (NMRA), of Health Ministry of Sri Lanka. All fragrances used in Swadeshi products are certified by globally accepted International Fragrance Association (IFRA) and produced under ISO 9001 – 2015 standards.

28.07.2026

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Hayleys Alumex deploys AI and IoT-enabled innovations to strengthen Sri Lanka’s manufacturing competitiveness

AI and IoT-enabled innovations enhance Sri Lanka’s export capability, operational efficiency and sustainable aluminium production

Representatives from Alumex PLC, the Hayleys Group Digital Transformation Unit, and technology partner UTECH at the launch, marking a key milestone in Alumex’s digital and AI transformation.

As global markets raise their expectations for manufacturing quality, traceability and operational efficiency, Alumex PLC, Sri Lanka’s leading aluminium manufacturer and a member of the Hayleys Group, has deployed four key AI and IoT-enabled digital innovations that directly strengthen its capacity to compete internationally and supply large-scale infrastructure projects vital to the country’s economy.
The deployments mark a significant step in Hayleys’ broader strategy to embed digital and AI transformation across its industrial portfolio, moving from isolated technology pilots to Group-wide capability that raises standards across sectors. The initiatives were delivered in collaboration with the Hayleys Group Digital Transformation Unit and technology partners UTECH and Dialog H One.
With approximately half of its revenue generated through exports to 17 countries across five continents including the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Switzerland, Italy and Singapore, Alumex operates in an environment where quality consistency, production efficiency and sustainability credentials are the baseline requirements of global & local markets.
“Alumex competes in demanding international markets, and these initiatives are investments in our ability to meet the standards our customers expect, protect and grow our export business, and build a more capable and resilient organization,” said Pramuk Dediwela, Managing Director, Alumex PLC.
“These initiatives, developed in collaboration with the Hayleys Group Digital Transformation Unit to address these imperatives, reflect a philosophy that distinguishes Hayleys’ approach: digital transformation that empowers people, not just systems. By combining advanced technologies with the expertise of our teams, we are building smarter manufacturing capabilities that strengthen our competitiveness today while preparing the business for the future.”
At the centre of this transformation is a new AI and IoT-enabled aluminium extrusion line, replacing an older production system and introducing advanced digital capabilities to improve manufacturing precision, productivity and resource efficiency.
The new system strengthens production capacity while enabling greater process control, supporting consistent product quality for both international customers and Sri Lanka’s growing infrastructure sector. The technology is also expected to deliver significant energy efficiencies compared to traditional extrusion systems, contributing to Alumex’s sustainability objectives.
Complementing this investment is the AI-driven Golden Batch for Extrusion Digitisation, which enhances visibility across extrusion operations to support consistent manufacturing performance, continuous improvement and greater operational excellence. The capability strengthens Alumex’s ability to deliver high-quality products while creating a strong foundation for future digital manufacturing initiatives.
The company has also introduced an AI-powered Scrap Optimisation Tool that strengthens material planning, optimises alloy utilisation and supports more efficient resource management. The solution enhances manufacturing performance while advancing Alumex’s commitment to sustainable production and responsible resource utilisation.
Further strengthening digital accessibility across the organisation, the Alumex AI Knowledge Hub provides employees with instant access to operational knowledge, enabling faster decision-making and improving consistency in processes. By making critical information readily available, the platform empowers employees at every level to make better-informed decisions and supports a more connected, agile workforce.
In addition, an IoT-based Energy Monitoring System implemented across its Ekala, Sapugaskanda and Lindel manufacturing facilities, provides real-time visibility into energy consumption patterns. By enabling the company to identify inefficiencies and optimise energy use across its operations, the platform supports Alumex’s drive to improve energy efficiency and reduce its carbon footprint, while supporting informed decision-making, improved operational performance and enhanced sustainability reporting capabilities, which are increasingly important as global markets place greater emphasis on responsible manufacturing.
Together, these initiatives represent a significant step in Alumex’s evolution towards Industry 4.0 manufacturing, reinforcing its ability to compete in demanding export markets while demonstrating how digital innovation creates long-term value through smarter manufacturing, greater sustainability and empowered people.

27.07.2026

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AMW Expands Suzuki Network with New Dedicated Showroom in Kandy

Standing (L to R) Dhanushka Ekanayake, Head of Sales – Suzuki; Prasanna de Silva, Director – Sales; Jawahar Ganesh, Group Managing Director of AMW; Mr. and Mrs. Gunarathne, Suzuki Fronx owners; Sameera Dulanjana, Sales Executive; and Anuruddha Ekanayake, Senior Manager – Sales, at the opening of AMW's new showroom in Kandy.

Associated Motorways (Private) Limited (AMW), an Al-Futtaim company and the sole authorised distributor for Suzuki vehicles in Sri Lanka, has further strengthened its nationwide presence with the opening of its new dedicated Suzuki showroom in Kandy.
Located at No. 448, Katugasthota Road, Kandy, the new facility marks a significant milestone for the brand as the second dedicated Suzuki showroom in Sri Lanka, following the flagship Suzuki showroom in Borella. The expansion reflects AMW's continued commitment to making Suzuki's globally renowned vehicles and customer-centric services more accessible to customers across the Central Province.
The ceremonial opening was attended by Mr. Jawahar Ganesh, Managing Director of AMW, Mr. Prasanna De Siva – Sales Director of AMW, members of the AMW management team, valued customers, business partners and other distinguished guests.
The new showroom showcases Suzuki's popular passenger vehicle lineup, including the Grand Vitara, Jimny, Fronx, Celerio and Alto K10, providing customers with the opportunity to explore the latest models and experience Suzuki's innovation, quality and reliability firsthand.
Customers purchasing through AMW Suzuki benefit from a comprehensive ownership experience backed by a 3-year or 100,000 km bumper-to-bumper warranty, access to genuine Suzuki parts and accessories, and expert after-sales care delivered by Suzuki-trained technicians. To further enhance customer convenience in the Central Province, owners can also access comprehensive after-sales support at AMW Pitstop – Kandy, located at No. 334/1, Yatiwawala, Katugastota, Kandy, offering vehicle servicing, repairs and body shop facilities. Customers may contact the service centre on 081 249 7805 for all their after-sales requirements. Together, these services ensure complete peace of mind and exceptional value throughout the ownership journey.
Speaking at the opening, Mr. Jawahar Ganesh, Managing Director of AMW, said:
"The opening of our dedicated Suzuki showroom in Kandy marks another important milestone in our journey to bring the Suzuki brand closer to customers across Sri Lanka. As demand for Suzuki vehicles continues to grow, we remain committed to expanding our network while delivering an exceptional customer experience that extends well beyond the point of purchase. Backed by our trusted after-sales expertise, genuine parts and accessories, and manufacturer-backed warranty, we are proud to offer customers the confidence and peace of mind that come with owning a Suzuki from AMW."
As the sole authorised distributor for Suzuki in Sri Lanka, AMW continues to invest in expanding its retail footprint and strengthening customer support, ensuring customers nationwide enjoy a seamless ownership experience backed by world-class standards.
The new Suzuki showroom is located at No. 448, Katugasthota Road, Kandy. Customers can visit the showroom to explore the latest Suzuki range or contact the sales team on 081 567 7677 for sales enquiries and test drives. For servicing, repairs and body shop requirements, customers can visit AMW Pitstop - Kandy, located at No. 334/1, Yatiwawala, Katugastota, Kandy, or call 081 249 7805.

27.07.2026

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Baby Cheramy සහ Clogard, PepperCube T25  ශ්‍රේණිගත කිරීම්වලින්
ශ්‍රී ලංකාවේ ප්‍රියතම නිෂ්පාදන සන්නාම අතරට

Hemas Consumer Brands සමාගමේ විශ්වාසනීය ගෘහස්ථ සන්නාම දෙකක් වන Baby Cheramy සහ Clogard, PepperCube Consultants විසින් සිදු කළ LMD සඟරාව මගින් ප්‍රකාශයට පත් කළ සමීක්ෂණයකට අනුව, ශ්‍රී ලාංකිකයන්ගේ ප්‍රියතම නිෂ්පාදන සන්නාම අතරට ඇතුළත් වී තිබේ. T25 ප්‍රියතම නිෂ්පාදන / සේවා සන්නාම සමීක්ෂණයේ ප්‍රතිඵල පදනම් වී ඇත්තේ 2025 මැයි මස සිට 2026 අප්‍රේල් මස දක්වා මාස 12ක කාලයක් තුළ දිවයින පුරා සෑම මාසයකම පුද්ගලයින් 1,000 බැගින්, සමස්ත වශයෙන් ප්‍රතිචාර දක්වන්නන් 12,000 දෙනෙකුගෙන් ලබාගත් දත්ත මතය. මෙම සමීක්ෂණය තුළ පාරිභෝගිකයන් විසින් කිසිදු පෙර යෝජනාවකින් තොරව (unprompted) තම ප්‍රියතම නිෂ්පාදන සහ සේවා සන්නාම නම් කර ඇති අතර, එක් එක් කාණ්ඩයේ ඉහළම සන්නාම 25 අකාරාදී පිළිවෙළට ලැයිස්තුගත කර ඇත. 2026 සමීක්ෂණයට Baby Cheramy සහ Clogard යන සන්නාම දෙකම ඇතුළත් වීම, ශ්‍රී ලාංකික නිවෙස් තුළ සන්නාමය කෙරෙහි ඔවුන්ගේ ඇති පිළිගැනීමත්, පාරිභෝගිකයන්ගේ වෙනස්වන අවශ්‍යතා සපුරාලන උසස් තත්ත්වයේ නිෂ්පාදන දශක ගණනාවක් පුරා අඛණ්ඩව ලබා දීම තුළින් දිනාගත් ගැඹුරු විශ්වාසයත් පිළිබිඹු කරයි.
65 වසරක් පුරා, ශ්‍රී ලාංකික දෙමාපියන්ගේ විශ්වාසනීය ළදරු සත්කාරක සන්නාමය ලෙස, Baby Cheramy, ඔවුන්ගේ ජීවිතයේ වටිනාම සංධිස්ථානයන්හි දී, ඔවුන් සමඟ ගමන් කර ඇත. ආදරය, ආරක්ෂාව සහ සමස්ත ළදරු රැකවරණය යන මූලධර්ම මත ගොඩනැඟුණු මෙම සන්නාමය, දෙමාපියත්ව ගමන්මගෙහි අත්‍යවශ්‍ය අංගයක් බවට පත්ව තිබේ. ශ්‍රී ලාංකිකයන්ගේ ප්‍රියතම නිෂ්පාදන සන්නාම අතරට Baby Cheramy ඇතුළත් වීම, ශ්‍රී ලාංකික පවුල් අතර මෙම සන්නාමයට හිමි ප්‍රබල පාරිභෝගික කැමැත්ත සහ විශ්වාසය පිළිබිඹු කරයි. එමෙන්ම, LMD විසින් ‘Most Loved Brand’ ලෙස නම් කිරීමත්, ‘Best of the Best’ Brand ගෞරවය හිමි කර ගැනීමත්, ළදරු සුරැකුම් කාණ්ඩයේ ප්‍රමුඛතම සන්නාමයක් ලෙස Baby Cheramy හි ස්ථානය තවදුරටත් ශක්තිමත් කරයි.

Hemas Consumer Brands හි අලෙවි සාමාන්‍යාධිකාරී තුල්සි ලියනගේ මහත්මිය මේ පිළිබඳ අදහස් දක්වමින්, "PepperCube T25 සමීක්ෂණයේ ශ්‍රී ලාංකිකයන්ගේ ප්‍රියතම නිෂ්පාදන සන්නාමයක් ලෙස අපගේ Baby Cheramy සන්නාමය ඇගයීමට ලක්වීම අපට විශේෂ ගෞරවයක්. පරම්පරා ගණනාවක් පුරා ශ්‍රී ලාංකික ළදරුවන්ගේ රැකවරණයේ විශ්වාසනීය පාර්ශවකරුවකු වීමට අපට හැකි වී තිබෙනවා. එමෙන්ම, පාරිභෝගිකයන් අප වෙත තබා ඇති එම දැඩි විශ්වාසය සහ බැඳීම, පවුල්වල වෙනස් වන  අවශ්‍යතාවන්ට ගැළපෙන, උසස් තත්ත්වයේ සහ විශ්වාසනීය නිෂ්පාදන හරහා අඛණ්ඩව නව්‍යකරණයන් සිදු කරමින් වඩාත් උසස් වටිනාකමක් ලබා දීමට අපව නිරන්තරයෙන් දිරිගන්වනවා" යනුවෙන් පැවසීය.
එසේම, Clogard වසර 30කට අධික කාලයක් පුරා ශ්‍රී ලාංකික පවුල්වල මුඛ සෞඛ්‍යය සුරැකුමෙහි  විශ්වාසනීය සහකරුවෙක් ලෙස කටයුතු කර ඇත. පුළුල් නිෂ්පාදන පෙළක් හරහා පූර්ණ මුඛ සෞඛ්‍යය ආරක්ෂාව ලබාදීමේ දිගුකාලීන උරුමයක් මත ගොඩනැගුණු මෙම සන්නාමය, වඩා යහපත් මුඛ සෞඛ්‍යය විසඳුම් ලබාදීම සඳහා දක්වන කැපවීම හේතුවෙන් පාරිභෝගිකයන්ගේ විශ්වාසය දිනාගෙන ඇත. PepperCube T25 සමීක්ෂණයේ ශ්‍රී ලාංකිකයන්ගේ ප්‍රියතම නිෂ්පාදන සන්නාම අතරට Clogard ඇතුළත් වීම, ශ්‍රී ලාංකික ගෘහයන් හි, මෙම සන්නාමය කෙරෙහි තබා ඇති විශ්වාසය මෙන්ම, ශ්‍රී ලාංකික පවුල් සඳහා වඩා යහපත් මුඛ සෞඛ්‍යයක් ප්‍රවර්ධනය කරන සම්පූර්ණ මුඛ සුරැකුම් පුරුද්දක් ඇති කිරීමට එය ඉටු කරන වැදගත් කාර්යභාරය ද තවදුරටත් පිළිබිඹු කරයි.
Hemas Consumer Brands හි අලෙවි සාමාන්‍යාධිකාරී, සචිනි ගමගේ වෙළුංගොඩ මහත්මිය පැවසූවේ, "LMD විසින් ප්‍රකාශයට පත් කළ PepperCube T25 සමීක්ෂණයේ ශ්‍රී ලාංකිකයන්ගේ ප්‍රියතම නිෂ්පාදන සන්නාමයක් ලෙස Clogard ඇගයීමට ලක්වීම අපට ඉමහත් ගෞරවයක්. වසර 30කට අධික කාලයක් පුරා ශ්‍රී ලාංකික පවුල්වල දෛනික මුඛ සුරැකුම් පුරුදු ආරක්ෂා කිරීම සඳහා අප කෙරෙහි තැබූ අති විශාල  පාරිභෝගික විශ්වාසය මෙම ඇගයීමෙන් තහවුරු කරනවා" යනුවෙනි.
එසේම, Clogard 2026 වසර සඳහා LMD විසින් ප්‍රකාශයට පත් කළ ‘Most Loved Product Brands’ අතරට ද ඇතුළත් වී තිබේ. ස්වභාවධර්මයෙන් ආභාෂය ලැබූ සංයෝග හා විද්‍යාත්මක නවෝත්පාදන මුසු කරමින්, ශ්‍රී ලාංකිකයන්ගේ අවශ්‍යතාවන්ට ගැළපෙන සාර්ථක, කාර්යක්ෂම  මුඛ සුරැකුම් විසඳුම් අඛණ්ඩව හඳුන්වා දීමට Clogard කැප වී සිටියි. එම කැපවීම තවදුරටත් තහවුරු කරමින්, ශ්‍රී ලංකාවේ සමස්ත මුඛ සෞඛ්‍යය නංවාලීමේ අරමුණින් Clogard සහ FDI World Dental Federation එක්ව කටයුතු කරයි.
Hemas Consumer Brands සමාගමේ ප්‍රමුඛතම සන්නාම දෙකක් වන Baby Cheramy සහ Clogard වෙත හිමි වූ මෙම ද්විත්ව ඇගයීම, වසර ගණනාවක් පුරා මෙම සන්නාම තම ජීවිතයේ කොටසක් බවට පත් කරගත් ශ්‍රී ලාංකිකයන් මිලියන ගණනකට සිය කෘතඥතාව පළ කිරීමේ අවස්ථාවක් ද සලසා දෙයි. ඔවුන්ගේ අඛණ්ඩ විශ්වාසය සහ සහයෝගය මෙම සන්නාම ද්විත්වයේ ගමන්මඟ හැඩගැස්වීමට මහත් සේ පිටිවහලක් වූ අතර, ශ්‍රී ලාංකිකයන්ගේ අවශ්‍යතාවන්ට ගැළපෙන විසඳුම් සපයන උසස් තත්ත්වයේ නිෂ්පාදන අඛණ්ඩව නව්‍යකරණය කරමින්, ප්‍රමිතීන් තවදුරටත් ඉහළ නැංවීමට එය දිරිගන්වයි.

27.07.2026

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Registrations Now Open for Sri Lanka Economic & Investment Summit 2026

Positioning Sri Lanka in a Changing Global Economy: Resilience, Reform, and the Future of Economic Policy

The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that registrations are now open for the Sri Lanka Economic & Investment Summit 2026 (SLEIS 2026), taking place on 12th and 13th October at the Shangri-La Colombo.
Held under the theme "Positioning Sri Lanka in a Changing Global Economy: Resilience, Reform, and the Future of Economic Policy," this year's Summit comes at a defining point in Sri Lanka's economic journey as the country looks beyond stabilisation towards sustained, private sector-led growth and greater integration with regional and global markets.
Recognised as one of the country's premier economic forums, the two-day Summit will bring together senior government leaders, policymakers, business leaders, investors, development partners, and international experts, for two days of dialogue on Sri Lanka's economic outlook, reform agenda and investment opportunities. Through high-level discussions and strategic engagement, the Summit will explore how Sri Lanka can strengthen competitiveness, attract investment, expand exports and position itself within Asia's evolving growth networks.
SLEIS 2026 will feature keynote addresses, high-level panel discussions, sector-focused conversations, investor engagement opportunities and business networking designed to facilitate constructive dialogue between the public and private sectors. The programme will examine the policies, partnerships and investment opportunities that can accelerate Sri Lanka's next phase of economic growth, with further details on the agenda, speakers and sessions to be announced in the coming weeks.
The Ceylon Chamber encourages early registration, as the Summit has consistently attracted strong participation from local and international delegates, and reaches full capacity well in advance.

Register at https://sleis.chamber.lk/.

27.07.2026

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JAT Holdings Brings Japanese Smart Toilet Technology to Sri Lanka Through Exclusive WASHLEX Partnership

By Vipula Amarasinghe

JAT Holdings PLC has entered into an exclusive partnership with Japanese smart bathroom technology brand WASHLEX, marking a significant step towards introducing advanced smart sanitation solutions to Sri Lanka's hospitality, residential and commercial sectors.
The collaboration will see JAT Holdings become the exclusive nationwide distributor of WASHLEX smart toilets, combining the brand's cutting-edge Japanese technology with JAT's extensive distribution network, strong customer relationships and comprehensive after-sales support.
The partnership was officially launched at a special event held at the JAT Lifestyle Studio, where architects, interior designers, property developers, hospitality professionals and customers were introduced to WASHLEX's range of intelligent bathroom solutions. The event also highlighted JAT's vision of positioning its Lifestyle Studio as a one-stop destination for premium home and lifestyle products.
Although WASHLEX entered the Sri Lankan market only in February 2024, the brand has already established a strong presence, with more than 350 smart toilets installed across luxury hotels, upscale residences, apartment developments, restaurants and commercial properties.
Among the leading hospitality and residential developments that have adopted WASHLEX technology are Shangri-La Hambantota Golf Resort & Spa, 98 Acres Resort & Spa, Le Grand Galle, TRI-ZEN Apartments, Marino Beach Hotel and Athreya Hotel & Spa Sigiriya.
Speaking at the launch, Aelian Gunawardene, Managing Director of JAT Holdings PLC, said the partnership aligns with the company's long-standing commitment to bringing globally recognised brands and innovative lifestyle solutions to Sri Lanka.
"For more than three decades, JAT has built its reputation by introducing world-class brands that improve the way people live and work. Our partnership with WASHLEX strengthens our premium lifestyle portfolio while reinforcing our vision of the JAT Lifestyle Studio as a destination for complete home and lifestyle solutions," he said.
He expressed confidence that JAT's nationwide reach, technical expertise and well-established dealer network would accelerate the growth of WASHLEX and help establish it as the benchmark for smart bathroom technology in Sri Lanka.
Dilan Sandaruwan, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of WASHLEX, said the company's mission is to make advanced Japanese smart toilet technology more accessible while raising standards of hygiene, comfort and convenience.
"As expectations continue to evolve across hospitality, residential and commercial developments, smart sanitation has become an increasingly important feature of modern living. Partnering with JAT Holdings enables us to reach a wider customer base through one of Sri Lanka's most respected lifestyle and distribution companies," he said.
WASHLEX smart toilets are equipped with a range of advanced features designed to enhance user comfort and hygiene, including heated seats, adjustable bidet and rear wash functions, child wash mode, self-cleaning nozzles, adjustable water temperature and pressure controls, soft-close seating, eco mode and user-friendly control panels.
The products also promote sustainability by reducing water consumption, incorporating energy-saving functions and minimizing the need for toilet paper, making them an environmentally responsible solution for modern homes and businesses.
Industry experts note that the adoption of smart bathroom technology is becoming increasingly important in luxury hotels and premium property developments, where enhanced hygiene, guest comfort and operational efficiency play a key role in customer satisfaction and long-term property value.
Beyond Sri Lanka, WASHLEX has also begun attracting international demand, with customer orders received from the Maldives, Dubai and Australia. The partnership with JAT Holdings is expected to further strengthen the brand's presence in Sri Lanka while supporting its expansion into regional and global markets.
The collaboration reflects the growing demand for intelligent, sustainable and technology-driven lifestyle products, positioning both JAT Holdings and WASHLEX to play a leading role in the future of smart living solutions in Sri Lanka.

26.07.2026

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SAIC Motor Reaches Historic 100-Million Vehicle Milestone, Strengthening IM Motors' Presence in Sri Lanka

By Vipula Amarasinghe

SAIC Motor has become the first Chinese automotive manufacturer to surpass 100 million vehicle deliveries worldwide, achieving a historic milestone that underscores its position as one of the global automotive industry's leading manufacturers and further strengthens the credentials of IM Motors in Sri Lanka.
The landmark achievement was marked by the production of the IM Motors LS9 Hyper, which became SAIC Motor's 100 millionth vehicle. The milestone highlights the growing importance of IM Motors as the group's premium intelligent electric vehicle (EV) brand and reflects SAIC Motor's continued investment in next-generation mobility solutions.
Industry analysts view the achievement as a significant endorsement of SAIC Motor's engineering capabilities, manufacturing excellence and long-term commitment to innovation in both conventional and electric vehicle technologies.
Commenting on the milestone, Virann de Zoysa, Chief Executive Officer of Evolution Auto (Pvt) Ltd., the authorised distributor of IM Motors in Sri Lanka, said the achievement provides added confidence for local customers considering electric mobility.
"SAIC Motor's delivery of 100 million vehicles is a remarkable achievement that reflects decades of engineering excellence, manufacturing expertise and customer trust," he said.
"Being backed by one of the world's largest automotive manufacturers gives IM Motors a strong foundation. At Evolution Auto, we complement that global strength with reliable local support through professional after-sales service, genuine spare parts and a long-term commitment to every IM Motors customer in Sri Lanka."
Founded more than seven decades ago, SAIC Motor has grown into one of the world's largest automotive groups, with a diverse portfolio of internationally recognised brands, strategic global partnerships and a rapidly expanding range of intelligent electric vehicles.
Today, SAIC Motor's vehicles are sold in more than 170 countries and regions, reflecting its extensive global footprint and growing influence in the international automotive market.
The company's latest milestone reinforces the strength behind IM Motors, positioning the premium EV brand as one that is supported by proven engineering expertise, advanced manufacturing capabilities and sustained investment in innovation.
In Sri Lanka, Evolution Auto has been responsible for introducing IM Motors to the local market while providing comprehensive sales, technical support, after-sales services and access to genuine spare parts. The company says its focus is to deliver an ownership experience that combines global automotive standards with dependable local service.
As demand for electric vehicles continues to grow in Sri Lanka, the achievement is expected to further enhance consumer confidence in IM Motors, particularly among buyers seeking technologically advanced electric vehicles backed by an established global manufacturer.
The milestone not only marks a historic chapter in SAIC Motor's journey but also reinforces IM Motors' ambition to play a leading role in the future of intelligent and sustainable mobility, both globally and in Sri Lanka.

26.07.2026

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Pelwatte Begins Construction of Modern Liquid Milk Plant in Kurunegala

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Pelwatte Dairy Industries. management and Staff at the groundbreaking ceremony held to mark the commencement of construction of the company's new manufacturing facility in Kurunegala.

Pelwatte Dairy Industries has taken a significant step towards expanding Sri Lanka's dairy industry by commencing construction of its new Greenfield Liquid Milk Manufacturing Facility in Kurunegala, a project expected to transform the company's product portfolio and strengthen the country's fresh milk supply.
The groundbreaking ceremony, held recently, marked the official start of construction of the state-of-the-art facility, which is scheduled to commence commercial operations in July 2027.
The new investment signals Pelwatte's strategic expansion beyond its well-established milk powder business into the fast-growing liquid dairy segment, enabling the company to offer consumers a wider range of locally produced, nutritious dairy products.
Once completed, the plant will manufacture a variety of fresh liquid milk products, including plain milk and flavoured milk in chocolate, vanilla, strawberry and iced coffee variants, catering to changing consumer tastes and increasing demand for convenient dairy beverages.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, Managing Director Akmal Wickramanayake described the occasion as an important milestone in the company's journey.
"Breaking ground is more than just the beginning of construction; it is the moment when our vision becomes reality," he said.
"For decades, Sri Lankan families have placed their trust in Pelwatte for quality dairy nutrition through our milk powder products. This new facility allows us to build on that legacy by introducing world-class liquid milk production to Sri Lanka while promoting healthier lifestyles and supporting the continued growth of the local dairy industry."
He added that the company looks forward to opening the facility in 2027 and introducing consumers to a new generation of locally manufactured dairy products.
Chairman Ariyaseela Wickremanayake said the investment reflects Pelwatte's long-term commitment to strengthening Sri Lanka's dairy sector and supporting local communities.
"Pelwatte has always believed that investing in local industries is an investment in the future of Sri Lanka. This project reflects our commitment to developing the country's dairy industry, creating sustainable opportunities for local farmers and ensuring future generations have access to nutritious, locally produced dairy products," he said.
The company noted that the investment comes at a time when improving national nutrition remains a key priority, particularly for mothers and children. By expanding domestic production capacity, the new facility is expected to enhance Sri Lanka's dairy supply chain, reduce dependence on imported dairy products and improve the availability of fresh milk across the country.
The Greenfield Liquid Milk Manufacturing Facility is being developed to meet international standards for food safety and quality while supporting the future growth of Sri Lanka's dairy industry through advanced manufacturing technology and modern production processes.
With the new project, Pelwatte aims to strengthen its position as one of Sri Lanka's leading dairy producers by evolving into a comprehensive dairy nutrition company offering a wider range of high-quality products for local consumers.
The Kurunegala facility represents one of the company's most significant investments in recent years and underscores its vision of building a stronger, more self-reliant dairy industry that benefits consumers, farmers and the national economy alike.
Construction is expected to continue over the coming months, with the new plant scheduled to begin supplying fresh liquid dairy products to the Sri Lankan market in mid-2027.

26.07.2026

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Hemas Hospitals and Adora Cosmetic Centre Sweep Top Honours at GlobalHealth Sri Lanka Awards 2026

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Representatives of Hemas Hospitals and Adora Cosmetic Centre receive awards at the GlobalHealth Sri Lanka Conference and Awards 2026, where the Group won seven national honours, while Adora Cosmetic Centre emerged as the country's most awarded cosmetic and aesthetic healthcare provider.

: Hemas Hospitals and its specialist aesthetic healthcare arm, Adora Cosmetic Centre, emerged as the biggest winners at the GlobalHealth Sri Lanka Conference and Awards 2026, securing an impressive seven national awards—the highest number won by any hospital group in Sri Lanka this year.
The remarkable achievement also established Adora Cosmetic Centre as the country's most awarded cosmetic and aesthetic healthcare provider at the prestigious international healthcare awards programme.
The GlobalHealth Sri Lanka Conference and Awards recognises outstanding achievements in healthcare by honouring institutions that demonstrate excellence in clinical quality, innovation, patient care, leadership and service delivery across the industry.
Hemas Hospital Thalawathugoda, together with Adora Cosmetic Centre, received five major awards, including Best Consultant-Led Derma Cosmetic & Plastic Surgery Centre of the Year, Laser Clinic of the Year, Cosmetic & Plastic Surgery Centre of the Year, Urology Service Provider of the Year, and Ambulatory Care Unit of the Year in Sri Lanka.
Meanwhile, Hemas Hospital Wattala added two more prestigious accolades to the Group's tally. Adora Cosmetic Centre at Hemas Hospital Wattala was recognised as the Body Sculpting Clinic of the Year, while the hospital received the Corporate Wellness Program of the Year award.
The seven awards highlight the Group's continued commitment to delivering high-quality, patient-centred healthcare across a wide range of medical specialties, while reinforcing its reputation for excellence in both general and specialised healthcare services.
Commenting on the achievement, Mr. Chinthaka Dissanayake, General Manager – Marketing of Hemas Hospitals, said the recognition was a reflection of the dedication and expertise of the hospital's medical professionals and support staff.
"Winning the highest number of awards among all hospitals in Sri Lanka at the GlobalHealth Awards is a tremendous honour and a testament to the dedication of our consultants, clinicians, nurses and support teams. We are equally proud that Adora Cosmetic Centre has emerged as the country's most awarded cosmetic and aesthetic healthcare provider. These recognitions reflect our unwavering commitment to clinical excellence, innovation, patient safety and delivering exceptional patient experiences," he said.
The awards recognised excellence across several specialised healthcare disciplines, including cosmetic and plastic surgery, laser medicine, body sculpting, urology, ambulatory care and corporate wellness, demonstrating the Group's ability to provide internationally benchmarked healthcare supported by advanced technology and multidisciplinary expertise.
Industry observers noted that the latest accolades further strengthen Hemas Hospitals' standing as one of Sri Lanka's leading private healthcare providers, while positioning Adora Cosmetic Centre at the forefront of the country's rapidly growing aesthetic medicine sector.
The recognition also follows a series of recent national and international achievements by the Group, reflecting its continued investment in innovative medical technologies, specialised treatment services and patient-focused healthcare solutions aimed at improving health outcomes for people across Sri Lanka.

26.07.2026

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Perodua Launches the All-New Traz SUV and Alza Seven-Seater MPV

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Unimo Enterprises Limited, the fully owned subsidiary of United Motors Lanka PLC and the authorised distributor for Perodua vehicles in Sri Lanka, has expanded its local vehicle lineup with the launch of the all-new Perodua Traz SUV and Perodua Alza MPV, strengthening its commitment to offering affordable, fuel-efficient and feature-rich mobility solutions for Sri Lankan motorists.

The two new models were officially unveiled at a ceremony held at Cinnamon Lakeside, Colombo, attended by senior representatives from Perodua Malaysia, United Motors Lanka PLC, Unimo Enterprises Limited, financial institutions, corporate partners, customers, media representatives and other industry stakeholders.

The launch follows the successful introduction of the Perodua Ativa and Myvi in Sri Lanka and marks another milestone in Unimo Enterprises' strategy to offer a wider range of reliable vehicles to meet the changing needs of Sri Lankan families and businesses.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Chanaka Yatawara, Group Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of United Motors Lanka PLC, said the introduction of the Traz and Alza significantly broadens the choices available to local customers.

"Today's buyers are looking beyond the purchase price. They want vehicles that offer excellent fuel efficiency, practical space, advanced safety features and dependable aftersales support. The Traz and Alza deliver all these benefits while providing exceptional value for money," he said.

He noted that more than 20,000 Perodua vehicles have already been sold in Sri Lanka, while nearly 3,000 units have been sold since vehicle import restrictions were lifted in 2025, reflecting the strong confidence Sri Lankan customers continue to place in the Malaysian automotive brand.

Perodua remains Malaysia's largest automotive manufacturer, recording 359,904 vehicle registrations in 2025 and capturing an estimated 43.9 percent domestic market share, demonstrating the brand's strong manufacturing capabilities and customer confidence.

The newly introduced Perodua Traz enters Sri Lanka's growing compact SUV segment with a spacious five-seat cabin, modern styling and practical storage solutions suitable for both city driving and family travel. Powered by a 1.5-litre engine, the SUV delivers an impressive manufacturer-claimed fuel efficiency of 21.3 kilometres per litre under Malaysian Driving Conditions.

The Traz also boasts a five-star ASEAN NCAP safety rating, featuring six airbags, Vehicle Stability Control, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Detection, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist, Forward Collision Warning and ISOFIX child-seat anchorages as standard equipment.

Meanwhile, the Perodua Alza offers a spacious seven-seat configuration designed for larger families and business users seeking comfort, flexibility and efficiency. The versatile cabin can be easily reconfigured, with luggage capacity expanding from 137 litres to 498 litres when the third-row seats are folded.

Equipped with a 1.5-litre Dual VVT-i engine paired with a D-CVT transmission, the Alza delivers a manufacturer-stated fuel efficiency of up to 22 kilometres per litre. Like the Traz, it has earned a five-star ASEAN NCAP safety rating, incorporating six airbags, Anti-lock Braking System, Vehicle Stability Control, Autonomous Emergency Braking and comprehensive seatbelt reminder systems.

United Motors Lanka PLC has also strengthened customer confidence through an extensive nationwide sales and aftersales network. Perodua showrooms are located at Hyde Park Corner, Kandy, Kurunegala, Ratnapura and Matara, while aftersales service is available through authorised centres in Hyde Park Corner, Orugodawatta, Ratmalana, Ratnapura, Matara, Kandy, Kurunegala, Batticaloa, Anuradhapura and Jaffna.

With the introduction of the Traz and Alza, Perodua now offers a comprehensive model range in Sri Lanka, including the Axia, Bezza, Ativa, Myvi, Aruz, Alza and Traz, covering compact hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs and MPVs.

The vehicles are priced from Rs. 8.8 million to Rs. 20 million and are backed by a five-year or 150,000-kilometre manufacturer's warranty, whichever comes first.

As part of a special introductory promotion, the first 50 customers can purchase the Perodua Traz with Body Kit for Rs. 19,950,000, the Perodua Traz without Body Kit for Rs. 19,200,000, or the Perodua Alza for Rs. 19,950,000 (VAT inclusive).

Through this expanded product portfolio, Unimo Enterprises aims to provide practical, safe and economical mobility solutions while reinforcing Perodua's global philosophy of "Building Cars, People First."

26.07.2026

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DIMO Mega Fiesta Kurunegala Brings Together Over 400 Tata Commercial Vehicles

DIMO Mega Fiesta Kurunegala 2026, a large-scale regional customer engagement programme, was successfully completed recently at the DIMO Kurunegala branch premises. Designed to support the long-term performance of commercial vehicles, the five-day initiative brought together over 400 Tata Commercial Vehicle owners and operators from Kurunegala and surrounding regions.
Kurunegala, one of Sri Lanka's key commercial and agricultural hubs, was selected as the venue due to its strong concentration of Tata Commercial Vehicle customers engaged in transportation, logistics, construction, and agriculture. The campaign provided customers with convenient access to DIMO's aftersales expertise while strengthening relationships with the regional Tata Commercial Vehicle community.
Commenting on the campaign, Mahesh Karunaratne, Chief Operating Officer - Automotive Engineering Solutions of DIMO, said, "For many commercial vehicle owners, their vehicle is more than just a mode of transport; it is their livelihood. DIMO Mega Fiesta was designed to offer a complete support platform where customers can access expert technical advice, genuine parts, financial solutions, and wellbeing initiatives, all in one place. This initiative reflects our commitment to being the perfect partner for our customers throughout their ownership journey."  
The campaign offered free bumper-to-bumper vehicle inspections and detailed technical reports conducted by Tata Motors-trained technicians, enabling customers to identify potential concerns and receive professional recommendations on maintenance and repairs. Customers also benefited from free engine oil, brake oil, and coolant top-ups, along with special discounts of up to 50% on Tata Genuine Parts, helping them maintain vehicle performance and minimize unexpected repair costs.
During the inspections, engine-related concerns, diesel pump-related repair needs, and routine maintenance requirements emerged as some of the most common areas requiring attention. Through one-to-one technical consultations, customers received guidance on improving vehicle reliability, the importance of timely repairs, and the benefits of using Tata Genuine Parts to enhance productivity and service life.        
Beyond aftersales support, DIMO Mega Fiesta Kurunegala 2026 featured displays from DIMO Retail and Tata Passenger and Commercial Vehicles, alongside banking, leasing, and insurance partners offering tailored promotions and consultations. The event also promoted corporate social responsibility through a free eye check-up programme that benefitted 235 individuals and a tree sapling distribution, reinforcing DIMO's commitment to customer wellbeing, community engagement, and sustainability.
Through initiatives such as DIMO Mega Fiesta, DIMO continues to fuel the dreams and aspirations of the communities it serves by delivering trusted mobility solutions, expert aftersales services, and meaningful customer experiences across Sri Lanka.

16.07.2026

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ALT X Certified Great Place to Work® for the Second Consecutive Year with One of Sri Lanka's Highest Employee Trust Scores

ALT X (Altered Experience), Sri Lanka's fastest-growing business solutions company specialising in end-to-end eCommerce, strategic marketing, and applied AI solutions, has once again been certified as a Great Place to Work®, marking its second consecutive year of receiving the globally recognised certification. This year's recognition is made even more significant by ALT X achieving one of the highest employee trust scores in Sri Lanka, reinforcing its commitment to building an exceptional workplace where people thrive alongside business performance.
Awarded by Great Place to Work®, the certification is based entirely on confidential employee feedback, measuring the levels of trust, pride, collaboration, and workplace experience within an organisation. Receiving this recognition for the second year in succession reflects the consistency of ALT X's people-first philosophy and the culture it has intentionally built as the company continues its rapid global expansion.
With international exposure and experience across diverse categories, ALT X has positioned itself as a business solutions partner operating at the intersection of strategy, technology, AI, and execution. As the company continues to build and scale global brands through its integrated eCom360 model, it believes that sustainable business growth begins with empowered people.
Commenting on the achievement, Kabeer Rafaideen, Managing Director of ALT X, stated, "Being recognised as a Great Place to Work for the second consecutive year, while achieving one of the highest employee trust scores in Sri Lanka, is an incredible milestone for us. As we continue to scale globally, our greatest competitive advantage will always be our people. We've built a culture where talented individuals are trusted, empowered, challenged, and given the opportunity to create meaningful impact. This recognition belongs to every member of the ALT X team who continues to shape our culture every single day."
Nimali Seneviratne, Head of Human Resources at ALT X, added, "Culture is never built overnight; it is shaped through consistent leadership, genuine care for people, and creating opportunities for everyone to grow. At ALT X, we have always believed that when employees feel valued, respected, and inspired, they deliver extraordinary outcomes for our clients and for each other. Receiving this certification for the second consecutive year validates the culture we continue to nurture and motivates us to keep raising the benchmark."
The certification reflects ALT X's ongoing investment in creating an environment where innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning are encouraged at every level. As the company expands its international footprint and partners with global brands across multiple markets, maintaining a high-performance culture remains central to its long-term strategy.
With deep expertise across Shopify, Amazon, and global marketplaces, ALT X delivers end-to-end business solutions through its eCom360 model, combining strategic clarity, AI-driven optimisation, and executional excellence. Its growing portfolio of international brands, including KODAK, Westinghouse, ELLE, BLAUPUNKT, and TELEFUNKEN, reflects its ability to build and scale businesses to global standards while operating from Sri Lanka.

24.07.2026

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First Capital enhances service experience with upgraded Negombo Branch

First Capital Holdings PLC, a subsidiary of JXG (Janashakthi Group) and a pioneering force in Sri Lanka’s capital markets landscape has unveiled the newly refurbished Negombo branch, reflecting its continued commitment to delivering a premium customer experience through enhanced service standards, modern interiors and a more comfortable environment for customers. As one of the company’s top-performing locations, the upgraded branch represents First Capital’s ongoing investment in strengthening its customer touchpoints and providing all clients with a seamless, elevated service experience.
The refurbished branch also features an expanded team to provide more personalised guidance and support, empowering customers to make informed financial decisions and strengthen their journey towards greater financial wellbeing and stewardship.

24.07.2026

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Sriyani Dress Point Annual Staff Awards 2026

Kegalle Branch Management Team receives the Excellence in Target Achievement 2026 award

Sriyani Dress Point, one of Sri Lanka's leading fashion retailers, recently hosted its Annual Staff Awards 2026 at the Monarch Imperial, bringing together more than 1,000 employees from branches across the island to celebrate dedication, excellence and outstanding performance.
The annual event welcomed staff members representing all showrooms and departments, together with senior management and distinguished guests, in recognition of the people who continue to drive the company's success and growth across Sri Lanka.
A highlight of the evening was the recognition of long-serving employees who marked 10, 15 and 20 years of service with the organisation, reflecting the company's strong culture of loyalty, commitment and career progression. In addition to long service awards, outstanding employees and teams were recognised across several categories based on performance during the evaluation period from May 2025 to April 2026, including Best Customer Service, Target Achievement, Staff Retention, Quality Maintenance and other key operational and performance indicators that contribute to the company's continued success.
Founded in 1993, Sriyani Dress Point has grown from a single retail outlet into one of Sri Lanka's most recognised fashion destinations, offering customers an extensive portfolio of fashion apparel, jewellery, accessories, cosmetics and household essentials. Today, the company operates eight thriving showrooms across Kegalle, Kurunegala, Matale, Negombo and Ratnapura, alongside two prominent outlets in the heart of Kandy, with further expansion plans already underway. The company is also preparing to open a brand-new Colombo showroom later this year, strengthening its national footprint and bringing accessible fashion to even more Sri Lankan communities.
Today, the organisation has evolved into a retail enterprise employing more than 1,000 people, supported by experienced teams across all departments. The next generation of leadership has also assumed an active role in shaping the company's future, with Directors Madushika Selvaraj, Dhinushika Selvaraj and Shabrajith Selvaraj overseeing key areas of the business and supporting its continued expansion.
"Our Annual Staff Awards are an opportunity to recognise the extraordinary commitment, care and professionalism shown by our team across our network every single day. The success of Sriyani Dress Point has always been built on the dedication of our people, and we believe that when a company grows, the people who grow with the company should progress in life as well," said Founder and Chairman Mariyapillai Selvaraj.
He further added, "When we started this business, operations were managed by just two people, our current General Manager, Kanagaraj and me. Today, we are proud to have built a family of more than 1,000 employees, and with new showrooms planned, we expect that number to grow by another 300 employees before our next Staff Awards ceremony. Seeing our people succeed and grow alongside the business gives us confidence in the brand's future and in our contribution to a stronger national economy. When people prosper, the country prospers too."
The Chairman also emphasised that employee recognition remains a cornerstone of the company's culture and long-term vision, helping to create an environment where employees feel valued, inspired and motivated to excel.
As Sriyani Dress Point continues its expansion, the company remains committed to investing in its people, strengthening communities, and building a legacy of shared success that extends far beyond retail. Guided by the belief that business growth and employee prosperity go hand in hand, the company continues to create opportunities for its people to grow, succeed and thrive alongside the brand, contributing to stronger communities and a more prosperous nation.

22.07.2026

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First Capital Holdings PLC සහ First Capital Treasuries PLC 2025/26 මූල්‍ය වර්ෂය සඳහා තහවුරු කළ හරිතාගාර වායු විමෝචන සහතිකකරණය හිමි කරගනී

JXG (ජනශක්ති සමූහ ව්‍යාපාරය) හි අනුබද්ධ සමාගමක් මෙන්ම ශ්‍රී ලංකාවේ ප්‍රාග්ධන වෙළඳපළ ක්ෂේත්‍රයේ පුරෝගාමී ආයතනයක් වන First Capital Holdings PLC සමාගම First Capital Treasuries PLC (FCT) සමඟ එක්ව, පරිසර අමාත්‍යාංශය යටතේ ක්‍රියාත්මක Sri Lanka Climate Fund (Pvt) Ltd මගින් 2025/26 මූල්‍ය වර්ෂය (2025 අප්‍රේල් 01 – 2026 මාර්තු 31) සඳහා පිරිනමන ලද හරිතාගාර වායු (GHG) විමෝචන සත්‍යාපන සහතිකය (Opinion No: SLCF/CFP/0581, දිනය: 2026 ජූනි 04) හිමිකර ගැනීමට පසුගියදා සමත් විය.
හරිතාගාර වායු පිළිබඳ මෙම වාර්තාව ISO 14064-1:2018 හි නියමයන්ට අනුකූලව සහ ISO 14064-3:2019 හි විධිවිධාන අනුව, පිළිගත හැකි මට්ටමේ සහතික කිරීමක් සහිතව ස්වාධීනව තහවුරු කර ඇත.
ප්‍රාග්ධන වෙළඳපොළ සමාගමක් ලෙස First Capital හි ‘Financed Emissions’ මට්ටම සමාගමේ සමස්ත විමෝචන මට්ටමෙන් සැලකිය යුතු ප්‍රතිශතයක් නියෝජනය කරයි. First Capital එහි හරිතාගාර වායු වාර්තා සඳහා මෙම විමෝචන ගණනය කිරීම සහ ඇතුළත් කිරීම සඳහා සාර්ථක ලෙස පියවර ගනිමින් සිටී. ආයෝජන තුළින් පැනනගින විමෝචනයන් මෙහිලා නිර්වචනය කරන ලද ආයතනික තක්සේරු සීමාවෙන් බැහැර කර ඇත. 2025/26 මූල්‍ය වර්ෂය තුළ තහවුරු කරන ලද විමෝචන මට්ටම් First Capital Holdings PLC සඳහා කාබන් ඩයොක්සයිඩ් සහ ඊට සමාන වායු ටොන් 194 ක් සහ First Capital Treasuries PLC සඳහා කාබන් ඩයොක්සයිඩ් සහ ඊට සමාන වායු ටොන් 54 ක් ලෙස වාර්තා වී තිබේ.
First Capital හි තිරසාරත්ව ඉලක්කවලට පදනම් වී ඇත්තේ, දීර්ඝකාලීන සාර්ථකත්වය අත්කරගැනීමට හැකි වන්නේ මූල්‍ය සාක්ෂරතාව සහ වගකීම්සහගත සමාජීය හා පාරිසරික පරිචයන් තුළින් ජනතාව සවිබලගැන්වීමෙන් බවට වන විශ්වාසයයි. එහි න්‍යාය පත්‍රය තුළ වැඩි වශයෙන්ම අවධානය යොමුවන්නේ පුද්ගලයන්ට සහ ප්‍රජාවන්ට දැනුවත් මූල්‍ය තීරණ ගැනීමට, ආර්ථික ශක්තිය ගොඩනංවා ගැනීමට සහ ජාතික සංවර්ධනයට අර්ථවත් ලෙස දායක වීමට හැකි වන කාරයට මූල්‍ය ස්ථාවරත්වය වැඩිදියුණු කිරීම වෙනුවෙනි.
මීට සමගාමීව ප්‍රජා සහභාගීත්වය, ක්‍රියාකාරකම් සහ පාරිසරික ආරක්ෂාව යන අංශ යටතේ ක්‍රියාත්මක වන වැඩසටහන්, තිරසාර වර්ධනයක් අරමුණු කරගත් වඩාත් සමබර ප්‍රවේශයක් අනුගමනය කිරීම සඳහා සමාගමට මහෝපකාරී වෙයි. මූල්‍ය සාක්ෂරතාව සහ තිරසාරත්වය සිය මූලික ක්‍රමෝපායන්ට ඇතුළත් කරගැනීම ඔස්සේ මූල්‍යමය වශයෙන් සවිබල ගැන්වුණු, පරිසර හිතකාමී දේශයක් නිර්මාණය කිරීම සමාගමේ අපේක්ෂාව වී ඇත.
ශ්‍රී ලංකාවේ ප්‍රාග්ධන වෙළඳපොළවල ප්‍රමුඛතම සමාගමක් ලෙස, දීර්ඝකාලීන වටිනාකම් නිර්මාණය යනු පාරිසරික භාරකාරත්වය සහ ශක්තිමත් ආයතනික යහපාලනය සමඟ සමීපව බැඳී ඇති දෙයක් බව First Capital සමාගම විශ්වාස කරයි. සමාගමේ හරිතාගාර වායු විමෝචනය සත්‍යාපනය කිරීම එහි පාරිසරික, සමාජීය සහ ආයතනික පාලන (ESG) න්‍යාය පත්‍රයේ යහපත් ඉදිරි පියවරක් සනිටුහන් කරන අතර, එමඟින් රට තුළ වඩාත් තිරසාර මූල්‍ය සේවා ක්ෂේත්‍රයක් ගොඩනැංවීම සඳහා සමාගම ලබාදෙමින් සිටින දායකත්වය තවදුරටත් ශක්තිමත් වනු ඇත.  
මෙම සහතිකකරණය පිළිබඳව අදහස් දක්වමින් First Capital Holdings PLC හි තිරසාරත්වය සහ ආයතනික වාර්තාකරණය පිළිබඳ ප්‍රධානී දිලුනි දනුෂිකා මහත්මිය මෙසේ පැවසුවාය: “මෙය විනිවිදභාවයෙන් යුත් පාරිසරික වාර්තාකරණය, වගවීම සහ තත්වයන් අඛණ්ඩව වැඩිදියුණු කිරීම සඳහා අප දක්වන කැපවීම මැනැවින් පිළිබිඹු කරනවා. වගකීම්සහගත ආයෝජන සමාගමක් ලෙස, දීර්ඝකාලීන වටිනාකම් නිර්මාණය සඳහා ශක්තිමත් පාරිසරික භාරකාරත්වයක් සහ ආයතනික පාලනයක් අවශ්‍ය බව අපගේ විශ්වාසයයි. තිරසාරත්වය අපගේ මෙහෙයුම්වල සහ තීරණ ගැනීමේ ක්‍රියාවලියේ අනිවාර්ය අංගයක් බවට පත්කර ගැනීම තුළින්, රට තුළ වඩාත් ශක්තිමත් හා තිරසාර මූල්‍ය සේවා ක්ෂේත්‍රයක් ගොඩනැංවීම සඳහා හැකි උපරිමයෙන් දායක වීමට අප බලාපොරොත්තු වනවා.”  
පරිසරය කෙරෙහි වගකීම්සහගත ලෙස කටයුතු කිරීම සහ විනිවිදභාවයෙන් යුතුව වාර්තාකරණය සිදුකිරීම සඳහා First Capital දක්වන උනන්දුව හා කැපවීම පිළිබිඹු කරන මෙම පිළිගැනීම, සමාගමේ ESG පාලන රාමුව කෙරෙහි පාර්ශ්වකරුවන් තුළ ඇති විශ්වාසය තවදුරටත් ශක්තිමත් කරනු නිසැකය.
ISO 14064 ප්‍රමිතීන් යටතේ මෙම විමෝචන සහතිකකරණය හිමි වීම තුළින්, වගකීම්සහගත ආයතනික පාලනය සහ තිරසාරත්වය ඔස්සේ රට තුළ වඩාත් තිරසාර මූල්‍ය ක්ෂේත්‍රයක් බිහිකිරීම සඳහා First Capital ඉටුකරමින් සිටින පුරෝගාමී මෙහෙවර තවදුරටත් ශක්තිමත් වනු නිසැකය.

22.07.2026

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Hayleys Agriculture Opens Sri Lanka’s First Frozen Concentrated Coconut Water Manufacturing Facility

Official ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the inauguration of Hayleys Nature Nest (Pvt) Ltd—Sri Lanka’s first frozen concentrated coconut water manufacturing facility.

Hayleys Agriculture Holdings Limited marks another milestone with the opening of Hayleys Nature Nest (Pvt) Ltd Sri Lanka’s first of its kind Frozen Concentrated Coconut Water Manufacturing Facility.
This state-of-the-art facility represents another significant step in our journey to create greater value from Sri Lanka's rich agricultural resources. By transforming locally sourced coconut water into premium concentrated coconut water for export markets, Hayleys Nature Nest strengthens our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and value-added agricultural exports.
Beyond expanding our global footprint, this investment supports local coconut growers and communities while contributing to increased export earnings and the long-term growth of Sri Lanka's agricultural sector.
As we celebrate this milestone, we remain committed to delivering sustainable, high-quality agricultural solutions that create value for our stakeholders and showcase the best of Sri Lanka to the world.

22.07.20269

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First Capital Asset Management strengthens investment education through University of Kelaniya programme

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Representatives of First Capital Asset Management receive a token of appreciation from the Department of Finance, Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies, University of Kelaniya

First Capital Asset Management Limited (FCAM), the wealth management arm of First Capital Holdings PLC and a subsidiary of the Janashakthi Group (JXG), has successfully concluded a Professional Fund Management programme conducted for students of the Department of Finance, Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies at the University of Kelaniya.
The short course was organised to provide undergraduates with a practical understanding of professional fund management, investment strategies and the fundamentals of financial markets. The programme aimed to complement classroom learning by exposing students to real-world industry practices and helping them develop skills that are increasingly important in today's financial sector.
Throughout the programme, participants received guidance from industry professionals, enabling them to gain valuable knowledge of investment decision-making, portfolio management and the role of fund managers in capital markets. The initiative also highlighted the importance of connecting academic studies with practical experience to better prepare graduates for careers in finance and investment management.
The programme concluded with a certification ceremony, where students who successfully completed the course were recognised for their participation and commitment. The certificates acknowledged the knowledge and skills acquired during the training while encouraging participants to pursue further professional development in the financial services industry.
First Capital Asset Management has continued to support financial literacy and professional education through collaborations with universities and educational institutions. Such initiatives reflect the company's commitment to nurturing the next generation of finance professionals by providing opportunities to learn directly from industry experts and gain exposure to evolving investment practices.

21.07.2026

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The Body Shop Sri Lanka Brings Back Its Highly Anticipated Mid-Season Sale with Upto 50% Off on Customer Favourites

The Body Shop Sri Lanka has brought back its highly anticipated Mid-Season Sale, offering customers discounts of up to 50 per cent on selected skincare, bodycare, haircare, makeup and fragrance products until July 31, 2026.
The limited-time promotion provides customers with an opportunity to replenish their everyday favourites or explore new products from The Body Shop’s naturally inspired product portfolio at special prices.
The sale features a curated selection of customer favourites across several categories. Skincare and makeup offers include the Vitamin C Moisture Day Cream and Fresh Nude Foundation, while haircare enthusiasts can benefit from discounts on the Ginger Scalp Serum, Banana Shampoo and Moringa Conditioner.
The promotion also includes a range of bodycare and fragrance products, including the Olive Body Butter, British Rose Hand Cream and the iconic White Musk® Eau de Toilette, a cruelty-free fragrance that has been a part of The Body Shop’s portfolio since 1981.
With promotional stocks available for a limited time, customers are encouraged to shop early to enjoy the widest selection before the sale concludes at the end of the month.
The Mid-Season Sale is available at all The Body Shop Sri Lanka outlets, including the flagship store on Bagatale Road, Odel at Alexandra Place, Kandy City Centre, Colombo City Centre, Havelock City and the newest boutique at One Galle Face Mall. Customers can also shop online at The Body Shop Sri Lanka.

18.07.2026

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Prime සමූහය LMD වෙතින් මෙරට වඩාත්ම ආදරය හා විශ්වාසය දිනූ  දේපළ වෙළඳාම් සන්නාමය ලෙස කිරුළු පළඳී

ප්‍රයිම් සමූහය පසුගියදා LMD වෙතින් ‘Best of the Best Brand in the Real Estate Industry’, ‘Most Loved Corporate Brand’ සහ ‘Most Loved Service Brand’ යන ඇගයීම් තුන හිමි කර ගැනීමට සමත් විය. මෙම ත්‍රිත්ව ඇගයුම ශ්‍රී ලංකාවේ නූතන දේපළ වෙළඳාම් ක්ෂේත්‍රයේ සැබෑ ප්‍රමුඛයා ලෙස ප්‍රයිම් සමූහය සතු පිළිගැනීම තවදුරටත් තහවුරු කරන ජයග්‍රහණයකි. වසර 30 කට අධික අඛණ්ඩ උරුමයක් සමඟින් Prime සමූහය පාරිභෝගික විශ්වාසය, නවෝත්පාදනය සහ වෙළඳපොළ නායකත්වය සම්බන්ධයෙන් ක්ෂේත්‍රයට ආදර්ශ රැසක් ලබාදීමට සමත් වී තිබේ. මේ සියල්ල ගොඩනැංවී ඇත්තේ පාරිභෝගිකයන් Prime සන්නාමය කෙරෙහි තබා ඇති නොබිඳෙන විශ්වාසය තුළිනි.
Prime සමූහය දශක 3 ක් තිස්සේ මෙරට නාගරික සංවර්ධනයට සහ ආර්ථික වර්ධනයට කැපීපෙනෙන ලෙස දායක වී තිබේ. මෙම කාලසීමාව තුළ එම සමූහය නේවාසික, වාණිජ සහ ජීවන රටා යන කාණ්ඩ යටතේ නිවාස සහ සුඛෝපභෝගී මහල් නිවාස ව්‍යාපෘති 70 කට අධික සංඛ්‍යාවක් සහ ඉඩම් සංවර්ධන ව්‍යාපෘති 10,000 කට අධික සංඛ්‍යාවක් ක්‍රියාවට නංවමින්, රටේ නිවාස අවකාශයන් පූර්ණ පරිවර්තනයකට ලක්කිරීමට සමත් වී ඇත.
පාරිභෝගික ළැදියාව යනු Prime සමූහයේ සාර්ථකත්වයට බලපා ඇති ප්‍රධානතම සාධකයකි. එමෙන්ම කිසි විටකත් වෙනස් නොවන විනිවිදභාවය සහ විශ්වාසනීයත්වය හේතුවෙන් තරගකරුවන් අතර කැපීපෙනීමට එම සමූහය සමත් වී ඇත. මේ නිසාම පාරිභෝගිකයන් විශාල පිරිසක් නැවත නැවත Prime සමූහයේ දේපළ මිලදී ගැනීමටත්, අන් අයට Prime සමූහය නිර්දේශ කිරීමටත් පෙළඹී සිටිති. රටේ ආර්ථික අවිනිශ්චිතතා පැවති කාලවලදී පවා සමූහය තම ව්‍යාපාර කටයුතු සාර්ථක ලෙස පවත්වාගෙන යාමට සමත් වී ඇති අතර, රටේ ජනතාව සහ ආයෝජකයින් සමාගම කෙරෙහි තබා ඇති විශ්වාසය එමඟින් මැනැවින් පිළිබිඹු වේ.
“LMD වෙතින් කාණ්ඩ තුනක් යටතේ මෙබඳු පිළිගැනීම් හිමි වීමේ ගෞරවය මුළුමනින්ම අපගේ පාරිභෝගිකයන් වෙත හිමි විය යුතුයි. වසර 30 කට අධික කාලයක් තිස්සේ ඔවුන් තම ජීවිතයේ වැදගත්ම තීරණවලදී අප කෙරෙහි විශ්වාසය තැබුවා. මෙම ඇගයුම් මඟින් පිළිබිඹු වන්නේ අප එම විශ්වාසය නොසැලෙන ලෙස ආරක්ෂා කර ඇති බවයි. එම විශ්වාසය ඉදිරියටත් සුරකිමින්, සෑම ප්‍රතිඥාවක්ම ඉටු කරමින්, නිවැරදි තාක්ෂණයන් භාවිතා කරමින්, Prime නාමය දේශීය හා ජාත්‍යන්තර වශයෙන් නව වෙළඳපොළවල් වෙත රැගෙන යාම අපගේ අරමුණයි.” Prime සමූහ ව්‍යාපාරයේ ප්‍රධාන විධායක නිලධාරී රුමින්ද රන්දෙණිය මහතා පැවසීය.
එමෙන්ම Prime සමූහය මේ වන විට පුළුල් ලෙස ඩිජිටල් තාක්ෂණය භාවිතා කිරීමටද යොමු වී ඇත. Prime Edge ජංගම යෙදුම, AI තාක්ෂණය භාවිතයෙන් හඳුන්වා දී ඇති සේවාවන් සහ නවීන ගෙවීම් ක්‍රම ඒ අතරින් ප්‍රධාන තැනක් ගනී. මේ නිසා පාරිභෝගිකයන්ට මුලින්ම Prime දේපළ පිළිබඳව විමසන අවස්ථාවේ සිට අලෙවියෙන් පසු ක්‍රියාවලිය දක්වා විශිෂ්ටතම සේවාවක් ලබාදීමට Prime සමූහයට හැකි වී තිබේ.
මීට අමතරව Prime සහ Melwa එක්ව කොළඹ වරාය නගරයේ ක්‍රියාවට නංවන Prime Marina ව්‍යාපෘතිය සම්බන්ධයෙන් මේ වන විට ගැනුම්කරුවන් අතර විශාල උනන්දුවක් ඇති වී තිබේ. ඉදිකිරීම් ආරම්භ වීමටත් පෙර ඉන් නිවාස 400 කට අධික සංඛ්‍යාවක් අලෙවි වී ඇත. මෙම ව්‍යාපෘතිය වෙනුවෙන් ආරම්භ කළ විශේෂ අලෙවි මධ්‍යස්ථානය තුළදී ඕනෑම කෙනෙකුට ව්‍යාපෘතියේ දැවැන්ත බව සහ සුවිශේෂී බව මැනැවින් දැකගත හැකි අතර, ඒ නිසාම දැනටමත් මෙය ශ්‍රී ලංකාවේ ගැනුම්කරුවන් වැඩිම උනන්දුවක් දක්වන ව්‍යාපෘති අතරින් එකක් බවට පත් වී තිබේ. සාගරයට මුහුණලා පිහිටා ඇති, ජාත්‍යන්තර තලයේ සැලසුම්කරුවන් සමඟ එක් වී ඉදිකරනු ලබන මෙය, ආයෝජකයන් තුළ ඒ සම්බන්ධයෙන් පවතින විශ්වාසයට මෙන්ම ශ්‍රී ලංකාවේ දේපළ වෙළඳාම් ක්ෂේත්‍රය ජාත්‍යන්තර තලයට ගෙනයාම සඳහා Prime සමූහය දරන උත්සාහයේ සාර්ථකත්වයට මනා සාක්ෂියකි.
මෙතෙක් මුහුණ දීමට සිදු වූ සියලුම වෙළඳපොළ අභියෝග හමුවේ නොසැලී හිඳිමින්, ක්‍රමෝපායික ව්‍යාප්තිය ඔස්සේ ආයෝජන සඳහා දීර්ඝකාලීන ආරක්ෂාව සහ තිරසාර වර්ධනය සහතික කිරීමට Prime සමූහයට හැකියාව ලැබී තිබේ. සිය පාර්ශ්වකරුවන් සමඟ ශක්තිමත් සම්බන්ධතා පවත්වාගෙන යන සහ, ගැනුම්කරුවන්ට හැකි උපරිම මට්ටමින් ප්‍රතිලාභ පිරිනැමීමට කැප වී සිටින සන්නාමයක් වශයෙන් Prime ගැනුම්කරුවන්ගේ සහ ආයෝජකයන්ගේ විශ්වාසය දිනා සිටී එමෙන්ම විදේශගත ශ්‍රී ලාංකිකයන් සහ විදේශ ආයෝජන ඉලක්ක කරගනිමින් Prime සමූහය ශක්තිමත් ගෝලීය සන්නාමයක් ගොඩනංවමින් සිටී. 
මෙම ත්‍රිත්ව ජයග්‍රහණය මඟින් ප්‍රධාන වශයෙන් නිරූපණය වන්නේ Prime සමූහයේ සාර්ථකත්වයේ මූලික පදනම වී ඇත්තේ පාරිභෝගික විශ්වාසය බවයි. ඒ වෙනුවෙන් සමූහය සිය ගනුදෙනුකරුවන්ට තම කෘතඥතාව පළකර සිටී.

18.07.2026

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CCC joins the Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials (PCAF)

Sanith de S. Wijeyeratne - Director / CEO , The Climate and Conservation Consortium (CCC)Poppy London - Accredited Partnerships Manager for South Asia, Europe and Central Asia, North America, and MENAAP The Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials (PCAF)

The Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials (PCAF) the global industry-led initiative that enables banks, investors, and insurers to measure and disclose the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with their loans, investments, and underwriting activities, recently welcomed The Climate and Conservation Consortium (CCC) as Sri Lanka’s first Consultancy partner to be admitted into their exclusive Accredited Partnership Programme.
Attending PCAF’s members only workshop and training session conducted under the aegis of The London Climate Action Week 2026, CCC’s Director / CEO  Sanith de S. Wijeyeratne joined representatives of key international financial institutions and other Non-Banking Financial Institutions, as well as Senior Advisory resources, in expertly moderated workshops and training sessions on PCAF’s methodology as well as listening to the experience of companies already making significant disclosures of their Scope 3 emissions. The moderated workshop took participants of the PCAF community step-by-step through the lifecycle of measuring financed emissions, using two real-world case studies from PCAF signatories. The session explored the key stages of measuring emissions related to financial activities, from scoping and initial calculations to iteration, communication, and application, highlighting common challenges and practical insights from implementation in practice.
“With the increasing regulatory push towards greater sustainability disclosures, there is a growing number of Banking and Financial institutions in Sri Lanka (and the region) that are looking at how to transparently and accurately disclose their share of emissions generated through their lending, leasing and financing activities” says CCC Director / CEO Sanith de S. Wijeyeratne.  “CCC has being leading the charge to improve the GHG emissions reporting in the country’s corporate sector for over 15 years and has identified the PCAF solution as the most viable source of authoritative emission calculations for the industry. PCAF’s globally recognised methodologies provide financial institutions with a consistent and standardised framework to measure and report emissions associated with their financial activities, supporting alignment with emerging regulatory expectations. This prompted us to seek this partnership and we are extremely thankful to have been provided this partnership opportunity.”
“We are encouraged to see a significant number of institutions in Sri Lanka, signing up to our pledge with a commitment to transparently disclosing their GHG emissions in accordance with the global requirements” says Poppy London PCAF’s Accredited Partnerships Manager for South Asia, Europe and Central Asia, North America, and MENAAP. “Our PCAF signatories are financial institutions that collaborate to advance industry-wide GHG accounting methodologies. Together, they have built a collaborative global community grounded in shared knowledge and action. In Sri Lanka we very pleased to now have a partner with the breath of GHG experience that CCC has, and I have no doubt that they will be an invaluable facilitator for the Financial Services industry to fully comply with their pledges.”
The Climate and Conservation Consortium is a ‘profit for purpose’ social enterprise founded with a vision of bringing sustainability expertise into the regional marketplace. CCC is committed to helping companies reduce their environmental impact and while assisting them to maximise on proper sustainability led communications and reporting practices.  Based in South Asia and the Middle East CCC’s clients span over 15 countries in the past 15 years since its founding. 

16.07.2026

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LANKATILES and the Geoffrey Bawa Trust Collaborate to Shape the Future of Sri Lankan Architecture

Reinforcing its long-standing commitment to architecture, design excellence and the advancement of Sri Lankan living spaces, LANKATILES has announced a strategic partnership with the Geoffrey Bawa Trust. The collaboration will support the Trust’s DesignTalk platform, the Annual Geoffrey Bawa Memorial Lecture and other knowledge-sharing initiatives that continue to inspire and cultivate Sri Lanka’s architectural community.
The partnership reflects a shared commitment to meaningful dialogue, creative exchange and the continued evolution of architecture in Sri Lanka. Aligning with Geoffrey Bawa’s enduring legacy, LANKATILES seeks to support platforms that nurture future talent and strengthen its engagement with the country’s architectural and design fraternity.
Speaking on the partnership, Priyantha Talwatte, Managing Director of LANKATILES PLC, said, “Our association with the Geoffrey Bawa Trust reflects our shared belief that architecture shapes spaces, cultural identity and lasting legacies. LANKATILES is proud to support a community that inspires future generations of architects and contributes to an enduring culture of design.”
Channa Daswatte, Chairperson of the Geoffrey Bawa and Lunuganga Trusts, added, “The Trust supports a dynamic calendar of year-round public programmes, including exhibitions, lectures and tours that engage with the natural and built environment. In working with the Trust, LANKATILES is not only supporting this important work, but is also helping the Trust grow these programmes and supporting Sri Lanka’s architectural and design community.”
Over five decades, LANKATILES has combined world-class tile and surface solutions with a commitment to thoughtful design, craftsmanship, innovation, education and industry partnerships that have enhanced how Sri Lankans design, build and experience spaces. This collaboration reinforces the company’s belief that design extends beyond buildings to shape communities, culture and lasting legacies, while further strengthening its commitment to advancing Sri Lanka’s architectural and design landscape.
Established by the architect in 1982, the Geoffrey Bawa Trust works to promote architecture, the arts and environmental studies in Sri Lanka and abroad. Since Geoffrey Bawa’s passing in 2003, the Trust has maintained the architect’s archives and sustained year-round public programmes, that engage broad discourse on natural and built environments and the arts. These initiatives continue to inspire architects, designers, academics and students while creating meaningful opportunities for the exchange of ideas across generations.

16.07.2026

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