Ibrahim Rahminthulla, a seasoned Service Advisor at Access Motors, has clinched the top spot in a highly competitive Asia Pacific Region Service Advisor Competition. This prestigious recognition highlights his exceptional customer service skills and technical expertise. Competing against 43 skilled service advisors from 16 countries, Ibrahim’s ability to consistently deliver outstanding service experience, his profound knowledge of JLR vehicles and his technical expertise set him apart. It earned him the highest honour in the Asia Pacific Region Service Advisor Competition. The competition, initiated by JLR’s Asia Pacific Office, aims to recognise and celebrate service advisors who exemplify excellence in their field. Ibrahim’s unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction, coupled with his deep technical knowledge, made him a standout candidate.  Customer feedback played a crucial role in Ibrahim’s victory. A few of the glowing reviews Ibrahim received were;

• “The service team was very professional and focused on fulfilling the need. I have worked with Ibrahim for the last 12 years, and his professionalism and commitment are highly commendable. It is one reason I remain with my service provider, the other being the excellent service experience.”
• “I can contact my service advisor at any time for emergency assistance. I always get genuine feedback regarding my concerns. I have never lost any personal belongings that were in the vehicle during repairs and service.
• “Fantastic experience! The staff was friendly and knowledgeable and kept me updated throughout the process. I’ll definitely be returning for future maintenance.”

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Hambantota International Port (HIP) has once again received international recognition for its outstanding handling of RORO (Roll-On/Roll-Off) transshipment operations. The accolade was presented during MOL’s (Mitsui O.S.K. Lines) Annual Stevedore Meeting for India and Indian Ocean Region, held in Chennai. MOL commended HIP for achieving zero cargo damage and maintaining safe Pure Car Carrier (PCC) cargo handling for the financial year 2023/2024. MOL’s cargo operations at HIP account for an annual average of around 10% of the port’s total RORO volumes, highlighting the strategic importance of this partnership. To meet MOL’s stringent quality standards, HIP has implemented customised operational practices, including specialised stevedoring and cargo tally procedures, fully aligned with MOL’s 16-point vessel and yard operations checklist. HIP also developed Bulk Terminal Operating System (BTOS) functions to fulfil RORO operational requirements. The system ensures the creation of detailed final reports of ships, including independent cargo deck/hold weight validation, which aids in maintaining vessel stability during navigation. Innovation and operational excellence HIP pioneered Sri Lanka’s first Terminal Operating System (TOS) tailored for RORO and bulk operations. The system validates, monitors, and records cargo movements in real-time across vessel, yard, and gate operations, encompassing discharge, loading, re-stow, SOB (Shift On Board-deck to deck), yard shifting, and gate activities. Such innovations have significantly enhanced operational efficiency and safety, setting a benchmark in port management. The event in Chennai served as a platform to share MOL’s quality control initiatives and exchange insights with business partners involved in PCC cargo operations. This recognition reflects HIP’s commitment to operational excellence and safety in handling unpackaged cargo such as vehicles and machinery, which are particularly vulnerable to damage during transshipment. “Unlike other finished product cargoes typically transported in containers, RORO operations pose unique challenges due to the absence of protective packaging. Vehicles and machinery are directly transshipped between vessels, making them highly prone to damage. This requires exceptional diligence, specialised skills, and meticulously organised standard operational procedures to minimise risks and ensure safe handling,” says Joey Feng, General Manager Operations of Hambantota International Port Group (HIPG). Wilson Qu, CEO of HIPG says the port is now well established as a trusted partner for RORO operations. “At Hambantota International Port, we have not only met but exceeded these demands, establishing ourselves as a benchmark for safety and efficiency in the industry. Our dedication to upholding these high standards has earned us international recognition from industry giants like MOL, reaffirming our position as a trusted and capable partner in the RORO sector.” Future Expansion Plans This is the 3rd consecutive year HIP has won recognition from MOL at the shipping company’s Annual Stevedore Meeting.  The port received Certificates of Appreciation for maintaining the lowest incident rate in PCC cargo for financial years 2021/2022 and 2022/2023. The current achievement further cements HIP’s reputation for diligence, skill, and adherence to stringent operational protocols. MOL, a global leader in maritime transportation, operates dry bulkers, tankers, LNG carriers, ferries, coastal RORO ships, and cruise ships. The company also transports dry bulk cargo such as iron ore, coal, grains, wood, cement, fertilizers, and salt. This year’s Stevedore Meeting also focused on damage prevention strategies and the analysis of cargo accidents for the financial year ending March 2024. Given the port’s proven efficiency, strategic location, and ongoing success in cargo handling, discussions are underway with MOL to increase the annual cargo volumes handled by HIP. This development would position HIP as a key player in regional logistics and further expand its role in the global shipping network. Photo – HIPG Operational Assistant General Manager M. Danushka Gayan Pinto, receiving the Certificate of Appreciation from Capt. Kazuhiro Iwata, MOL’s Group Director for Asia, Middle East, West Africa, East Africa.

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Sampath Bank announces its successful integration with the payment gateway Cybersource, further strengthening its position as a leader in digital banking. Through this partnership, Sampath Bank is committed to offering seamless payment solutions to businesses that unlock opportunities for growth and success. This integration with Cybersource, a Visa solution, enhances secure, user-friendly transactions while equipping merchants with advanced fraud management tools, detailed reporting capabilities and adaptable payment processes tailored to their unique needs. Cybersource is a leading payment gateway from Visa renowned for delivering fast, convenient, and secure payment solutions designed for small and large e-commerce businesses. Following a successful, seamless onboarding process, Sampath Bank now enables merchants of all sizes to accept secure online payments in various currencies, with the system safeguarding confidential payment information and customer data throughout the transaction process. Commenting on the integration, Mr Shiran Kossinna, Assistant General Manager – Card Centre of Sampath Bank stated, “At Sampath Bank, we are dedicated to delivering forward-thinking solutions that strengthen both the security and convenience of our customers’ transactions. Our integration with Cybersource marks a significant milestone in our commitment to providing innovative digital services. With this partnership, we aim to empower merchants to thrive in an increasingly competitive market, allowing them to focus on their core business while we manage the complexities of payment processing.” Commenting on the partnership, Visa Country Manager for Sri Lanka & Maldives, Ms. Avanthi Colombage, said “We are delighted to further deepen our partnership with Sampath Bank with this new collaboration and offer Cybersource to the Bank’s merchants. With our collective commitment to digitise commerce in Sri Lanka, we are bringing secure, simple and accessible solutions to our country’s businesses so they can accept domestic and cross-border digital payments. We aim to enable merchants of all sizes to thrive in the digital marketplace by equipping them with the tools and technology to navigate today’s dynamic economy confidently.” Through this integration with Cybersource, a globally trusted partner in enhancing customer experiences, Sampath Bank reaffirms its commitment to onboarding merchants and supporting their growth by offering secure, reliable payment solutions aligned with its customers’ evolving needs.   Photo Caption: From left to right: Representing Visa – Nalin Dissanayake, Director Account Executive INSA– Sri Lanka & Maldives, Gimali Soysa, Director – Products & Solutions, Avanthi Colombage, Country Manager – Sri Lanka & Maldives; with Sampath Bank representatives Shiran Kossinna, Assistant General Manager – Card Centre, Chirath Samarasekara, Manager – Card Centre Marketing, Chaminda Samarajeewa, Manager – Merchant Relationships, Digital Products & Card Sales, Miranda Thennakoon, Officer In Charge – E-Commerce Business Development.

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Uber Eats, Sri Lanka’s leading food and grocery delivery platform, has partnered with SOS Children’s Villages Sri Lanka, a renowned international non-governmental organization, to support vulnerable children across the country. Uber Eats has donated LKR 1 million to provide daily meals and essential care to children without parental support. Additionally, the partnership empowers Sri Lankans to make a difference by donating meals through the Uber Eats app. For more than four decades, SOS Children’s Villages Sri Lanka has supported vulnerable children by providing them the care, relationships and support they need to become their strongest selves. More than 4000 children in Sri Lanka have benefited from one or more programs offered by the organization. It will use the funds contributed by Uber Eats to provide daily meals and maintain the facilities on ground. Now, Sri Lankans can easily contribute to this cause by choosing from three meal donation options—One Day, One Week, or One Month of Meals—from the Uber Eats app itself throughout the month of December. Every rupee donated through the Uber Eats app goes directly to SOS Children’s Villages Sri Lanka, ensuring 100% of the funds benefit children in need, with no fees charged by Uber Eats. Divakar Ratnadurai, National Director of SOS Children’s Villages Sri Lanka, said, “ “This partnership with Uber Eats serves as an exemplary demonstration of how technology can be leveraged for social benefits. We are delighted that through this campaign, we are able to engage the community in supporting children without parental care and amplify their voices across Sri Lanka.” Varun Wijewardana, Country Manager – Delivery, Uber Sri Lanka, said, “We are proud to use the power of technology to make a real difference this holiday season. By partnering with SOS Children’s Villages Sri Lanka, we are empowering Sri Lankans to donate meals directly through our app – making it easier than ever for everyone to contribute to this vital cause. This partnership is a testament to Uber’s commitment to make a meaningful difference in the communities we serve and bring a positive change to the lives of children who need it most” The campaign will run till the end of December, 2024. Users can easily contribute to this meaningful cause by following a few easy steps:

1. Open the Uber Eats App.
2. Click on the “Pick-up” Filter.
3. Select the “SOS Village” nearest to you.
4. Select the preferred donation.
5. Place the order.
6. A notification will be received stating the order is ready for pickup. Please select ‘I got my order’ at this stage to complete the donation.

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The Department of Census and Statistics (DCS) reports that Sri Lanka’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) at constant prices (2015) increased to Rs. 3,151,941 million in the third quarter of 2024, compared to Rs. 2,987,544 million in the same period of 2023, marking a 5.5% year-on-year growth. The growth was driven by a 10.8% expansion in the Industrial sector, alongside a 3.0% increase in Agriculture and a 2.6% rise in Services activities during the quarter spanning July to September 2024. Executive summary Issuing a communiqué, on releasing National Accounts Estimates, the DCS states that the year-on-year GDP growth rate for the third quarter of 2024 has been estimated as 5.5 percent of positive growth rate. Gross Domestic Product for Sri Lanka for the third quarter of the year 2024 at constant price (2015) has increased up to Rs 3,151,941 million from Rs. 2,987,544 million which recorded in the third quarter of the year 2023. The following Figure 1 reflects the changes in the real GDP levels in the third quarter GDP series from the year 2018 to year 2024. In addition, the Gross Domestic Product for Sri Lanka for the third quarter of 2024 at current price has increased up to Rs. 7,474,721 million from Rs. 6,904,277 million which recorded in the same quarter in year 2023 registering 8.3 percent of positive change in the current price GDP. The three major economic activities of the economy; ‘Agriculture’, ‘Industry’ and ‘Services’ have contributed their share to the GDP at current prices by 8.2 percent, 27.3 percent and 55.5 percent respectively, while ‘Taxes less subsidies on products’ component has contributed 8.9 percent of share to the GDP in the third quarter of 2024. Meanwhile, Agriculture, Industry and Services sectors expanded by 3.0 percent, 10.8 percent and 2.6 percent respectively in the third quarter of 2024. In addition taxes less subsidies on products grew by 13.3 percent in the third quarter of 2024. Background The year-on-year GDP growth rate of the third quarter of the year 2024, is calculated compared to the real GDP value reported in the same quarter (third quarter) of the previous year (2023). A sharp decline in interest rates was noticed towards the end of the third quarter of 2024, which eased the domestic credit supply especially to the private sector. A noteworthy increase in export and import quantities were identified in the third quarter of 2024, which facilitated most of the economic activities by providing forward and backward linkages to prosper. More importantly, increase in imports of investment goods as well as intermediate goods such as textile and textile articles and cement mainly facilitated to the recorded high growth in apparel industry and construction industry respectively. Moreover increased earnings from Tourism and Workers’ Remittances inflows strengthened the country’s foreign currency stance with the simultaneous uplift in country’s rupee value in the foreign currency market. From the domestic front, the increased water stocks in reservoirs further increased the hydro electricity generation and relatively high production of eggs and poultry supported animal production activity to report a remarkable positive growth rate in the third quarter of 2024. Performance in Agricultural Activities In the third quarter of year 2024, the agriculture activities have recorded an expansion of 3.0 percent when compared to the 4.2 percent of growth recorded in the same quarter in the year 2023. The reported 3.0 percent growth in the agricultural activities were supported by the expansions in ‘Growing of cereals’ (46.7 percent), ‘Animal production’ (19.9 percent), ‘Growing of tea’ (16.3 percent), ‘Marine fishing and marine aquaculture’ (9.9 percent), ‘Growing of fruits’ (7.3 percent), ‘Growing of spices, aromatic drug and pharmaceutical crops, ’ (5.7 percent), ‘Growing of rice’ (4.3 percent), and ‘Growing of sugarcane’ ( 1.9 percent). Meanwhile, some agricultural activities, namely, ‘Fresh water fishing and fresh water aquaculture’ (11.6 percent) ‘Growing of oleaginous fruits’ (11.5 percent), ‘Forestry and logging’ (9.6 percent), ‘Growing of rubber’ (9.3 percent), ‘Agriculture supporting activities’ (6.8 percent), ‘Growing of other perennial crops’ ( 4.8 percent), ‘Growing of coffee, cocoa and other beverages crops (4.3 percent), ‘Plant propagation’ ( 3.2 percent) and ‘Growing of vegetables’ (0.8 percent) reported contractions in the third quarter of 2024. Performance in Industrial Activities All the Industrial activities together reported a 10.8 percent growth in the third quarter of 2024 compared to the reported 0.7 percent decline in the third quarter of the previous year. The ‘Construction industry’ and ‘Mining and quarrying’ industries again returned with positive growths of 23.8 percent and 25.4 percent respectively in this quarter. Besides, the overall manufacturing industry grew by 5.3 percent during the third quarter 2024 with the expansions of some of the more important manufacturing sub activities, namely, ‘Manufacture of textiles, wearing apparel, leather and other related products’ (13.5 percent), ‘Manufacture of paper and paper products’(10.9 percent), ‘Manufacture of wood and wood products’ (10.7 percent), ‘Manufacture of rubber and plastic products’ (9.0 percent), ‘Manufacture of basic metal and fabricated metal products’(7.2 percent), ‘Manufacture of machinery and equipment’(4.4 percent), ‘Manufacture of furniture’ (2.3 percent), ‘Other manufacturing and repair and installation of machinery and equipment’ (2.3 percent), ‘Manufacture of food, beverages and tobacco products’ (1.8 percent) and ‘Manufacture of chemical products and basic pharmaceutical products’ (1.2 percent). Only two manufacturing sub activities; ‘Manufacture of coke and refined petroleum products’(52.3 percent) and ‘Manufacture of other non-metallic mineral products’ (3.0 percent) reported contractions in the third quarter of 2024. Among other industrial activities; ‘Electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning supply’ and ‘Water collection, treatment and supply’ grew by 15.2 percent and 5.3 percent respectively in the third quarter of 2024 while ‘Sewerage, waste treatment and disposals’ activity reporting a 4.7 percent contraction.  

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The initiative, completed within just four months following government approval, underscores Toyota Lanka’s commitment to driving the growth of the tourism industry. These vehicles aim to provide world-class, dependable transportation solutions for tourism operators, enhancing the sector’s service quality and reliability. With a legacy of delivering reliable vehicles and trusted after-sales services, Toyota Lanka continues to empower key economic sectors. The company views this milestone as the beginning of a promising journey, with plans to import more vehicles in the future to support Sri Lanka’s expanding tourism needs. Toyota Lanka expressed pride in contributing to the transformation of the tourism industry and remains dedicated to fostering growth and innovation within the sector.

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Elpitiya Plantations PLC marked an extraordinary year, earning accolades at two of Sri Lanka’s most prestigious award ceremonies—the TAGS Awards 2024 by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka (CA Sri Lanka) and the Best Corporate Citizen Sustainability Awards by the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce. These honors reflect the company’s dedication to financial transparency, environmental stewardship, and its transformative journey through biodiversity Under the leadership of Dr. Parakrama Dissanayake (Chairman), Dr. Rohan Fernando (Managing Director), and Mr. Bhathiya Bulumulla (CEO and Joint Managing Director), and managed by Aitken Spence Plantation Managements PLC since 1997, Elpitiya oversees 13 estates and 17 factories, producing tea and diversified crops. It has pioneered berry cultivation in Sri Lanka, reducing import reliance, while expanding into sustainable forestry, eco-tourism, hydropower, and specialty tea manufacturing. At the TAGS Awards 2024, Elpitiya Plantations was celebrated as the Bronze winner in the Plantations Sector, in recognition of its excellence in financial reporting adhering to global reporting standards. The company also received a Certificate of Recognition for Sustainability Reporting. Elpitiya Plantations Team receiving the Bronze Award at CA TAGS Awards 2024 The company’s sustainability achievements were further reinforced at the Best Corporate Citizen Sustainability Awards, where it earned the title of 2nd Runner-Up in the category of companies with revenue below 15 billion rupees. The company also received recognition for its innovative project, “Grow to Grow,” which focuses on cultivating bamboo as a renewable source of biomass. Mr. Bhathiya Bulumulla – CEO and Joint Managing Director of Elpitiya Plantations PLC with his team receiving the 2^nd Runner-up Award – Category B at the Best Corporate Citizen Sustainability Awards 2024   Mr. Izzadeen (Chief Sustainability Officer) and Mr. Pradeep Vithanage (Senior Manager) – Elpitiya Plantations PLC, receiving the Merit Certificate for Best Sustainability Project “Grow-to-Grow” at the Best Corporate Citizen Sustainability Awards 2024 This honor underscores Elpitiya’s holistic approach to sustainability, seamlessly integrating economic growth with environmental conservation and community upliftment. Through its efforts, the company has consistently demonstrated how a business can align profitability with purpose, leaving a profound and lasting impact on the ecosystems it nurtures and the lives it touches. Elpitiya’s narrative of progress this year was beautifully articulated through its “Symphony of Sustainability: Touching Every Heart and Every Life”, an ode to its dedication to biodiversity and community well-being. This philosophy has guided the company in every endeavor, underscoring the intrinsic connection between its operations, the environment, and the people it serves. As Elpitiya Plantations embarks on the next chapter of its journey, it remains resolute in its mission to redefine success in the plantation industry. By intertwining economic prosperity with environmental and social harmony, the company stands as a beacon of inspiration, demonstrating that true progress is not just about growth but about nurturing a legacy where business, biodiversity, and humanity coexist in perfect harmony.  

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Siyapatha Finance PLC, a fully owned subsidiary of Sampath Bank PLC, ceremoniously opened its 53rd branch located at No. 134, Station Road, Homagama, recently. The grand opening marked another milestone in the company’s ongoing mission to provide accessible, customer-centric financial solutions across Sri Lanka. The event was attended by Siyapatha Finance’s Managing Director, Mr. Ananda Seneviratne, Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Rajeev De Silva, other senior officials, alongside key representatives from local government ,  ASP- Homagama, Mr. Hasanga Randika Wedamulla, Acting OIC – Homagama , Mr. Priyashantha , President of the Trade Association , Principal of Magammana Maha Vidyalaya , Mrs. K. Padmalatha , private sector institutions, financial institutions and insurance companies in the area. The Homagama branch offers a diverse range of financial products, including leasing, fixed deposits, savings accounts, gold financing, business loans, personal loans, fast draft services, factoring, and the Smart Pay automated bill payment facility, tailored to meet the needs of both individuals and businesses in the Homagama area, supporting the local community’s financial aspirations. With a land area of approximately 137 square kilometers and home to the highest population of any Pradeshiya Sabha in Sri Lanka, Homagama is a rapidly growing and economically dynamic region. The area is characterized by a diverse mix of businesses, including textiles, motor vehicles, property development, and rental services. Small and medium enterprises (SMEs), as well as larger organizations, form the backbone of Homagama’s economy. “Being part of the Colombo District and conveniently connected by the Southern Expressway, Homagama plays a crucial role in the economic development of the region. Its proximity to Colombo also presents significant opportunities for both established and emerging businesses. Siyapatha Finance’s expansion into this area provides tailored financial solutions that cater to the needs of local entrepreneurs, individuals, and families, contributing to the broader economic development of the region,” stated Mr. Ananda Seneviratne, Managing Director of Siyapatha Finance PLC. “With the opening of this new branch, we hope to enhance the living standards of all stakeholders in the region by providing access to affordable financial services that support the growth of local businesses and individuals. Especially, with around 51% of Homagama’s population being female, Siyapatha Finance is set to empower women through customized services, helping improve their quality of life,” he further elaborated. As part of its commitment to social responsibility, Siyapatha Finance PLC also launched its “Siyapathen Mihikathata” initiative in Homagama. In parallel with the branch opening, the company’s senior management team participated in a tree-planting program and donated computers and accessories to a local school – Magammana Maha Vidyalaya , Homagama , affirming the organization’s dedication to educational development and environmental sustainability within the communities it operates in. Established in 2005 and regulated by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL), Siyapatha Finance has garnered and secured a reputation as a premier leasing company, renowned for its commitment to excellence and customer-centric financial solutions. With a dedicated team of over 950 professionals, the company has expanded its footprint to encompass 52 branches strategically located across key urban centers and towns. A listed entity on the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) for over a decade, Siyapatha Finance PLC  soon evolved into Sampath Bank’s largest subsidiary. Its diverse portfolio encompasses finance leasing, loans, gold financing, fast drafts, factoring (debt financing), and an array of other financial services. Fitch Ratings has affirmed Siyapatha Finance’s National Long-Term Rating at BBB+ (lka) with a Stable Outlook, endorsing the company’s solid financial standing and promising growth trajectory. In a recent comprehensive financial analysis carried out by K Seeds Investments (Pvt) Ltd, Siyapatha Finance PLC was ranked the “Best Performing Finance Company” in Category 2  among  licensed finance companies for the quarter ended 30^th June,2024. Further, Siyapatha Finance PLC was honoured as the “Best Employer Brand” at the recently concluded Sri Lanka Best Employer Brand Awards 2024. Organized by the Employer Branding Institute,India, along with the World HRD Congress and Stars of the Industry Awards Group, the awards recognize and reward Sri Lankan brands that excel in Human Resources and its development.

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• Innovative Curriculum Design: Emphasizing courses that integrate sustainability, ethical leadership, and corporate governance.
• Sustainable Campus Initiatives: Implementing energy-efficient practices, reducing carbon footprints, and promoting waste management within its facilities.
• Community Engagement: Leading outreach programs that enhance social equity and environmental conservation.

• Environmental Responsibility: Implementing green initiatives, energy conservation programs, and promoting renewable energy sources within campus operations.
• Social Impact: Strengthening community partnerships and providing scholarships to underprivileged students, ensuring inclusive access to education.
• Economic Innovation: Encouraging research and development in areas that foster economic growth while adhering to sustainable business practices.

• Expand its Green Campus Initiatives: Invest in sustainable infrastructure and introduce eco-friendly technologies across all campuses.
• Enhance Research and Innovation: Foster research that addresses critical global challenges, including climate change, renewable energy, and social justice.
• Strengthen Global Partnerships: Collaborate with international universities and organizations to promote cross-border knowledge exchange and sustainable practices.

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Australian High Commissioner in Sri Lanka H.E. Paul Stephens and his team met Mr. Mangala Wijesinghe, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of EDB to strengthen bilateral trade relations between Australia and Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka and Australia bilateral relationship has vastly expanded over the past 75 years, through deep people-to-people ties, trade and investment, tourism, culture and sports. This relationship is strong and enduring, underpinned by shared history and common values. Trade and investment between two countries have been increasing over the time. Australia is the 11^th largest export destination for Sri Lanka with total exports of USD USD 226.51 Mn in 2023 and the 24^th import origin with total imports of USD 185.89 Mn in 2023 with the trade favorable trade balance for Sri Lanka around USD 40 Mn. Chairman Mr. Wijesinghe explained the vision of new government related to the export development and emphasized the importance of partnering in the area of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). Mr. Wijesinghe emphasized the new government intention on the expediting approval process of FDIs to facilitate the investors. Further, he mentioned that Sri Lanka needs to follow the global trends in manufacturing in order to become a part of global supply chains. For Sri Lanka to connect with global supply chains, it is essential to join hands and promote bilateral trade with Australian counterparts as well he said. H.E. the High Commissioner explained the potential for Australia to invest in the Mineral Sector in Sri Lanka as well as joint ventures on export led manufacturing. Further he explained the interest of Australian companies to invest in Sri Lanka targeting export-led manufacturing and processing. Especially, develop Sri Lanka as a Commodity Hub for the value adding of Australian agri commodities targeting export markets under the benefits of free/preferential trade agreements. Both parties agreed to discuss further on the possibility of implementation of this proposal. Australia and Sri Lanka have a strong trade relationship that includes a framework arrangement, and development cooperation. The Australia-Sri Lanka Trade and Investment Framework Arrangement (TIFA) advances economic cooperation between Australia and Sri Lanka. The TIFA action plan includes government to government collaborations in multiple sectors such as facilitating quarantine process for agricultural exports, investment promotion programs, market access for SME exports, attracting high-end tourists and partnerships for greater use of digital technology. Major exports to Australia in 2023 were recorded as apparel, tea, rubber tyres & tubes, rubber gloves, motor vehicles & parts, and edible preparations etc. and the main import products were lentils, cereals, meat preparations, dairy produce pharmaceuticals and paints etc. EDB has identified potential products to Australia as apparel, tea & mate, plastics & rubber products, fish & shellfish, paper products etc. Both countries anticipate to reach new heights in bilateral trade relations in terms of continuing productive dialogues for new business opportunities, proactive engagements with business communities in both countries while encouraging and facilitating trade and investment, transferring modern technology and by resolving trade and investment related issues to create a conducive business environment. Ms. Lalita Kapur – Australian Deputy High Commissioner, Dr. Paul Zeccola – First Secretary, Mr. Shameel Javadh – Country Manager of Austrade, Ms. Saduni Seneviratne – Director Education of Austrade and senior EDB Officials also participated at the discussion.

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Sri Lanka Insurance Life (SLICLL) sales team was recognized at the Life Insurance Industry Sales Awards 2023 held during the 15^th National Forum for Life Insurance Advisors (NAFLIA). This special awards ceremony celebrated the exceptional achievements of the Top performers of the Life Insurance industry. Supesan from Jaffna Branch and Rohana Kumara from Gampaha Branch of Sri Lanka Insurance Life was rewarded under the Best Branch Manager Category. They walked away with the Silver and Bronze awards respectively in both the Large-scale Company Category and the National Level. The event was held on the 3rd December 2024, at the Monarch Imperial, Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte. Rohana Kumara, Branch Manager – Gampaha, receiving his National level award   Photo Caption: Supesan, Branch Manager – Jaffna, receiving his National level award

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Socomec, a France-based specialist in low voltage power management with over a century of expertise, has announced a strategic partnership with Boxy Private Limited, a subsidiary of the Venora Group—one of Sri Lanka’s leading players in Electrical Engineering and Telecommunication. This collaboration aims to strengthen power metering and monitoring solutions in the Sri Lankan market, aligning with the region’s growing focus on sustainability and efficient energy management. O’Niel Dissanayake, APAC CEO of Socomec Group, highlighted the importance of the partnership, stating, “The market is increasingly moving toward sustainability and efficient energy management, and Socomec, as a leading player in power monitoring business in Europe, is well-positioned to meet these demands. Partnerships like this enable us to expand our reach across the Asia-Pacific region, delivering solutions more effectively while leveraging our partners’ local expertise to build strong, mutually beneficial relationships.” Meenu Singhal, Regional Managing Director of Socomec Greater India, excited about the partnership and said, “We are delighted to join hands with Boxy Private Limited to provide best-in-class services to the Sri Lankan market. Both our companies are deeply committed to nurturing client loyalty and building strong, meaningful relationships. This alliance is a significant milestone for Socomec as we continue to expand our footprint in Sri Lanka. By leveraging Venora’s local market expertise, Socomec will deliver cutting-edge power Management solutions tailored to the needs of the region.” Sharing his thoughts, Sayuru Gunawardana, Director of Boxy Private Limited, said “We have always admired Socomec’s reputation for quality and innovation in power management solutions. This partnership represents an exciting opportunity to bring world-class products to Sri Lanka. Together, we will streamline operations and establish a robust logistics network to ensure prompt and reliable service delivery, especially for critical applications.” Reflecting on the way forward, Suhard Amit, General Manager of Emerging Markets, Socomec Greater India, said, “Socomec has been serving the Sri Lankan market for over four decades, driving innovation across sectors such as Data centres, Industries, Manufacturing, and Healthcare. Through this partnership with Boxy, we aim to deliver enhanced energy efficiency, reliability, and localized support to address the region’s evolving needs. Our collaboration with Team Boxy will ensure that our customers receive unparalleled service and advanced solutions tailored to their unique requirements.” With this partnership, Socomec reinforces its commitment to sustainability and its mission to empower businesses with innovative, reliable, and efficient energy solutions in Sri Lanka and beyond.

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Cool Planet, Sri Lanka’s premier retail destination, is making the festive season brighter than ever this December with “Light Up the Moment.” This festive theme brings joy to holiday shopping with exclusive collections, exciting activities, and unmatched promotions, offering something special for every member of the family. Adding to the holiday spirit, all Cool Planet outlets are adorned with vibrant Christmas décor, creating a magical atmosphere for shoppers. With a wide range of high-quality product offerings, shoppers can explore stylish options in women’s fashion, including exclusive collections from Modano, Hada, and Envogue, along with the Curvy line, dedicated to trendy and comfortable styles. Men’s fashion features sophisticated and versatile choices from Hustle and Kingstreet, ensuring the perfect look for every occasion. For the little ones, there is an extensive collection of baby and kids’ clothing, accessories, and toys to bring endless smiles this season. Additionally, the outlets feature a wide variety of accessories, including shoes, handbags, jewelry, cosmetics, toys, stationary, homewear and watches, making it a one-stop destination for holiday gifting. Cool Planet’s home and lifestyle collection offers an array of essentials, from elegant bedding to versatile homeware, perfect for adding warmth and style to holiday celebrations. Cool Planet marked an exciting milestone this season with the opening of its first standalone store at Havelock City Mall, Moonstone—the go-to destination for exclusive fashion accessories. From sparkling jewelry to trendy accessories, Moonstone offers everything to complete festive looks or find the perfect gift. Shoppers can explore stunning pieces and kick off the season in style with Moonstone’s curated collection. Rizwi Thaha, Chief Executive Officer of Cool Planet, expressed his excitement, stating, “We are thrilled to bring families together this season by lighting up the moment of our customers. Our goal is to offer more than just a shopping experience. We aim to provide a place where customers can enjoy the festive spirit while finding everything, they need for a joyous holiday celebration. This is why we focus on offering our customers the best in style, shopping convenience, and making it truly theirs. We are also thrilled to announce the upcoming launch of our newest mini mall at Kirula Road, Narahenpita, which will make shopping with us even more accessible, and enjoyable.” Customers to Cool Planet’s outlets can immerse themselves in festive fun with engaging activities designed to spread holiday cheer. Santa encounters add a playful touch of surprise, while wishing trees offer an opportunity to share heartfelt messages and good wishes. The joyful sounds of Christmas carols enhance the festive atmosphere, creating a truly magical experience. Shoppers can also capture the season’s magic at photo booths, creating lasting memories with loved ones. To make the season even brighter, Cool Planet is offering special promotions and benefits for shoppers, including seasonal bank offers with up to 25% discounts on selected items. Members of Sky-High Loyalty Program can enjoy exclusive perks, early access to offers, and delightful surprises throughout December, making it a rewarding time to shop. With ten conveniently located outlets at Nugegoda, Maharagama, Colombo 05, Pelawatte, Malabe, Wattala, Kandy, One Galle Face Mall, Havelock City Mall and Katubedda, Cool Planet ensures easy access for all. For those who prefer to shop from home, the entire festive collection and seasonal offers are available online at coolplanet.lk.

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Softlogic Life, Sri Lanka’s life insurer with the largest customer base has once again shown its superiority at the 59^th CA TAGS Awards, winning a multitude of awards including Top 3 placement and taking its place amongst the leading lights of Corporate Sri Lanka with the Bronze Award for Overall Excellence in Corporate Reporting. These significant achievements are a powerful testament to Softlogic Life’s unwavering commitment to organisational Transparency and Governance, exemplified by its continuous efforts to push the boundaries of financial reporting practices in Sri Lanka. The Company won six coveted awards in total, outshining some of the longstanding giant conglomerates in the Sri Lankan corporate landscape. These significant achievements are a powerful testament to Softlogic Life’s unwavering commitment to organizational Transparency, Accountability, Governance and Sustainability, exemplified by its continuous efforts to push the boundaries of financial reporting practices in Sri Lanka. These accomplishments come at a time when Softlogic Life is redefining innovation to set new standards in corporate reporting. The company recently became Sri Lanka’s first to integrate groundbreaking AI and machine learning-based features into annual report analysis, raising the bar for financial reporting in Sri Lanka and reinforcing Softlogic Life’s reputation as a trailblazer committed to transforming how stakeholders review and obtain financial and non-financial insights. While the awards underscore its prowess as an innovator, this recognition is also a testament to Softlogic Life’s continuing business momentum and exceptional financial strength, establishing the company as one of the most influential industry players. . The night of accomplishment was boosted with the Insurance sector Gold award and a further Gold, awarded for Digitally Transformative Reporting following through to Softlogic Life’s remarkable achievement of securing the Bronze Award for Overall Excellence in Annual Financial Reporting. This prestigious accolade, one of the most valuable awards of the evening, was won by Softlogic Life for the 4^th consecutive year, cementing its reputation as a trailblazer in financial reporting. The Company’s 2023 Annual report, aptly themed ‘Bigger. Better. Bolder’, earned widespread acclaim for its innovative approach and exceptional transparency. Softlogic Life competed against top conglomerates to win this award and made it to the history books as the only stand-alone company to be amongst the Top 3 winners not just once but for 4 consecutive years. This achievement places Softlogic Life in an elite league of corporations celebrated for their exemplary reporting practices, reaffirming its unwavering dedication to creating maximum value for all stakeholders through robust governance and unmatched reporting excellence. Additionally, Softlogic Life won 3 further awards—Integrated Reporting Bronze Award, Corporate Governance Disclosure Financial Services Bronze Award, Integrating Reporting – Bronze Award and a Certificate of Recognition in the Special Award Category under Sustainability Reporting. Commenting on yet another victorious night at the CA TAGS Awards, Softlogic Life Managing Director Iftikar Ahamed said, “Winning these prestigious accolades, including a Top 3 Award for Overall Excellence in Annual Financial Reporting for our 2023 Annual report themed ‘Bigger. Better. Bolder’ at the CA TAGS Awards, not only underscores our commitment to pushing the boundaries of financial reporting in Sri Lanka’s corporate landscape but also reflects our dedication to creating optimal value for all stakeholders. The Gold award for Insurance and a further Gold for Digitally Transformative Reporting positions us exactly where we need to be, excelling in our industry and being ahead of the AI digital curve. With AI now starting to be being part of our everyday life, it is essential that companies adapt accordingly if we are to remain relevant.” Softlogic Life Chief Financial Officer Nuwan Withanage said, “We believe that embracing technological advancements and innovative reporting methods truly enhances our ability to deliver complex financial insights in a  clear, transparent, meaningful and an accessible manner to our stakeholders. While our pioneering efforts in integrating AI-driven tools, adopting global best practices, and new standards in reporting excellence, we continue to demonstrate our resolve to empower stakeholders with actionable insights. This strategic approach reinforces confidence and trust whilst positioning Softlogic Life as a catalyst for driving transformative change in Sri Lanka’s corporate reporting landscape. The introduction of the revolutionary Annual Report Analyzer, featuring cutting-edge advancements such as “Lifey”-a voice-enabled, AI and machine learning-powered virtual assistant—and automated visual data interpretation, has redefined traditional approaches to annual reporting. At Softlogic Life, financial reporting goes beyond regulatory compliance—it is a testament to our unwavering commitment to Transparency, Accountability, Governance, Sustainability, and stakeholder trust.” Whilst the CA TAGS Awards 2024 were in the making, Softlogic Life also won five awards at the CMA Excellence in Integrated Reporting Awards 2024. The five awards including an Overall Silver Award for Integrated Reporting Excellence, Insurance Sector Gold, a Top 5 excellence in Integrated report in Sri Lanka and two special awards for best disclosure on strategic focus and best disclosure on capitals that highlighted Softlogic Life’s multifaceted prowess in maintaining high standards across various reporting domains, all aimed at driving transparency, accountability and value for stakeholders Image Caption : 

1. Softlogic Life Managing Director Iftikar Ahamed
2. Softlogic Life Chief Financial Officer Nuwan Withanage

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LAUGFS Gas PLC, a leading energy solutions provider, has once again demonstrated its leadership and excellence in corporate reporting by clinching the prestigious Gold Award in the Power & Energy category at the TAGS Awards 2024, organised by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka (CA Sri Lanka). This significant recognition marks another milestone for LAUGFS Gas, highlighting its unwavering commitment to transparency, sustainability, and impactful stakeholder communication. The TAGS Awards, celebrated for 59 years, is a hallmark event recognising excellence in corporate reporting, promoting accountability, and encouraging innovation in financial and non-financial disclosures. LAUGFS Gas’s victory at this year’s awards underscores its adherence to the globally recognised Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Sustainability Reporting Standards, ensuring clarity and consistency in its disclosures. Speaking on this achievement, Dr. Niroshan Pieries, Cluster CEO of LAUGFS Gas PLC, stated “We are incredibly honored to receive this prestigious Gold Award at the TAGS Awards 2024. This recognition reflects the dedication and relentless effort of our entire team at LAUGFS Gas. It also reinforces our commitment to delivering equitable and sustainable solutions to our customers and stakeholders.  Beyond this achievement, we view it as a call to further innovate and uphold our responsibilities to society and the environment. We are committed to driving sustainable growth through operational excellence, modernising energy solutions, and continually enhancing the trust and satisfaction of our customers and stakeholders. Together, we aim to reach new milestones as we power the nation with quality LPG solutions that improve lives and support Sri Lanka’s progress.” Since its inception in 2001, LAUGFS Gas has emerged as a formidable presence in the local LPG industry, boasting 100% local ownership. The company’s growth trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable, earning it a reputation as a trusted brand synonymous with quality and reliability. With an extensive network of over 10,000 dealers and 31 distributors nationwide, LAUGFS Gas is dedicated to delivering LPG solutions tailored to domestic, industrial, and commercial needs. Expanding its reach beyond Sri Lanka, the company has established a regional presence in Bangladesh and operates an LPG trading arm in Dubai. LAUGFS Gas stands as the sole LPG enterprise to own its gas carriers and operates Southeast Asia’s largest LPG transshipment facility in Hambanthota.   Photo Caption : LAUGFS Gas team at the TAGS Awards Ceremony

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The SriLankan Airlines Toastmasters Club, the second oldest corporate club in Sri Lanka, recently raised a toast to a well-travelled legacy and its equally promising future at its 22^nd Annual Officer Installation Ceremony, held at the SriLankan Aviation College in Katunayake. The event was attended by the Chief Guest and former Head of Human Resources at SriLankan Airlines, Sunil Dissanayake, who founded the Club in 2002, along with divisional representatives of Toastmasters: Ganga Fernando, District Director of District 82; Niroshan Nadarajah, Program Quality Director of District 82; Shabry Shamoon, Division Director of Area H, District 82; and Nimshi Palihawadana, Area Director of Area H4. Other attendees included members of the Senior Management Team of SriLankan Airlines, as well as presidents and members of neighbouring Toastmasters clubs, along with current members of the airline’s club. The newly installed executive committee of the SriLankan Airlines Toastmasters Club has set its sights on the Golden Gavel, the most prestigious award in Toastmasters, as its next goal. The new committee members are: Kapila Chandra, Club President; Olarika Neerodha, Vice President of Education; Pubudu Wijerathne, Vice President of Membership; Vimukthi Dissanayake, Vice President of Public Relations; Nisanka Senarathne, Secretary; Dilshan Peiris, Treasurer; and Dakshitha Fernando, Sergeant-at-Arms. With a clear vision for the future, the SriLankan Airlines Toastmasters Club is eager to present its next chapters of success in the years ahead. The Chief Guest, along with divisional representatives, the executive committee, members of the SriLankan Airlines Toastmasters Club, and presidents and members of neighbouring clubs, at the Installation Ceremony  The Chief Guest of the Installation Ceremony, Sunil Dissanayake, presenting the President with a Toastmasters pin   Photo caption : The newly appointed Executive Committee of the SriLankan Airlines Toastmasters Club, left to right: Dakshitha Fernando, Sergeant-at-Arms; Vimukthi Dissanayake, Vice President of Public Relations; Nisanka Senarathne, Secretary;  Kapila Chandra, Club President; Olarika Neerodha, Vice President of Education; Pubudu Wijerathne, Vice President of Membership; and Dilshan Peiris, Treasurer.

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