Business
OPA meets with policymakers, makes 17 proposals for sectoral development of economy
by Steve A. Morrell
The Organisation of Professional Associations of Sri Lanka (OPA) has held discussions with the authorities of the government and have made proposals to further develop Tourism, Foreign Employment, Shipping, the Apparel Sector, Export Incentives, the Spice Industry and several other industries of the SME sector on a par with India and China.
Taking into account Sri Lanka’s geographical position in the Indian ocean and its multifaceted areas attracting international interest, the OPA has suggested continuous review and recommended credence for cogent action within a given time frame.
The press conference convened by the OPA last week was to project interest of areas for discussion not merely to highlight action, but to incentivise action to improve the economic position of the government to eventually ensure economic progress,
Dulith Perera President of OPA said that at a meeting in December 2020 of the executive council of the OPA, the Committee for the Development and Sustenance of foreign Exchange in Sri Lanka’ was formed. Since then the Committee has subjected to deliberations and generated proposals categorized as short term and Medium term options.
Short term options included, credit lines extended to long years with countries from major level of imports, development of the apparel export sector. Utilising the ‘New Normal’ and the developmens in the apparel industry in Bangladesh as index for further growth.
The OPA’s further deliberations included, seeking enhanced employment quotas from countries such as Korea, Japan, Middle East, Israel etc., to improve foreign remittances. Also negotiate an employment quota from China.
Creation of an authority to develop the spice industry, in the context that Sri Lanka spices are the best in the world and following the model of the tea industry for further development.
Developing the Colombo Port for international container shipping to include Colombo as part of the major shipping lanes and address the lack of containers needed for exports.
Encouraging foreign investment for a minimum of 100,000 USD, or an equalised portion of more than 50 percent of the total cost. The Banking institutions to enter into tripartite agreements with developers and investors.
Special concessions to the SME sector, to include interest free advances and credit guarantees to the apparel sector in particular to encourage this sector, which now contributes about 65 percent to the economy of the country. Support to this sector is recognized as crucial to progress of the economy.
Gems and jewellery is included in the OPA proposals.
Additionally Economic development through export of high tech products, A new dimension for tourism, that could include medical tourism, pilgrim tourism and the outstanding features of Sri Lanka’s topography. Expanse of beaches with aqua sports and abundance of fauna and flora including game parks,
Development of universities to attract influx of foreign students from countries like the Maldives, Pakistan, Bhutan, to name few, countries who could take advantage of educational possibilities that could cater to a student population from such countries.
The OPA’s resurgence programme also included resuscitating and re-structuring industries that needed assistance for progress with assistance from the banking sector.
Past President Ruwan Gallage elaborated on details that were conveyed to the government, for effective action both in the short term and long term.
Attorney at law, Ruchira Gunasekera, Gen Sec. Eng, Upali Jayawardena, President Dulith Perera, Past president Ruwan Gallage , Treasurer, Bandula Gamarachchi, and Shantha Senarath were at the head table at the press conference.
The Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Sri Lanka (AHK Sri Lanka) proudly facilitated the first-ever Sri Lankan delegation’s participation at Drupa 2024, the world’s largest trade fair for the printing industry and technology. Held after an eight-year hiatus, Drupa 2024 was a landmark event, marking significant advancements and opportunities in the global printing industry.
AHK Sri Lanka played a pivotal role in organising and supporting the delegation, which comprised 17 members from the Sri Lanka Association for Printers (SLAP), representing eight companies from the commercial, newspaper, stationery printing, and packaging industries. This pioneering effort by AHK Sri Lanka not only showcased the diverse capabilities of Sri Lanka’s printing sector but also facilitated vital bilateral discussions with key stakeholders from the German printing industry.
Business
Unveiling Ayugiri: Browns Hotels & Resorts sets the stage for a new era in luxury Ayurveda Wellness
In a captivating reimagining of luxury wellness tourism, Browns Hotels & Resorts proudly unveiled the exquisite Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort Sigiriya. This momentous occasion, celebrated amidst a vibrant and serene grand opening on the 6th of June, heralds a new chapter in the Ayurveda wellness tourism landscape in Sri Lanka. Nestled amidst 54 acres of unspoiled natural splendour, Ayugiri features 22 exclusive suites and stands out as the only luxury Ayurveda wellness resort in the country offering plunge pools in every room, rendering it truly one-of-a-kind.
The grand opening of Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort was an enchanting event, where guests were captivated by the melodies of flutists and violinists resonating through Sigiriya’s lush landscapes. As traditional drummers and dancers infused the air with vibrant energy, Browns Hotels & Resorts’ CEO, Eksath Wijeratne, Kotaro Katsuki, Acting Ambassador for the Embassy of Japan and General Manager, Buwaneka Bandara, unveiled the resort’s new logo, marking a significant moment witnessed by distinguished guests from the French Embassy, Ayurveda and wellness enthusiasts along with officials from the Sigiriya area, LOLC Holdings and Browns Group.
“Our strategic expansion into wellness tourism with Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort Sigiriya symbolises a significant milestone for Browns Hotels & Resorts. Wellness tourism has consistently outperformed the overall tourism industry for over a decade, reflecting a growing global interest in travel that goes beyond leisure to offer rejuvenation and holistic well-being. By integrating the timeless wisdom of Ayurveda with modern luxury, we aim to set a new standard in luxury wellness tourism in Sri Lanka. Whether your goal is prevention, healing, or a deeper connection to inner harmony, Ayugiri offers a sanctuary for holistic well-being” stated Eksath Wijeratne.
Ayugiri encapsulates the essence of life, inspired by the lotus flower held by the graceful queens of the infamous Sigiriya frescoes. Just as the lotus emerges from the murky depths, untainted and serene,
Ayugiri invites guests on a journey of purity and rejuvenation, harmonised with a balance of mind, body and spirit, the essence of nature, echoes of culture and the wisdom of ancient Ayurvedic healing.
HNB General Insurance, one of Sri Lanka’s leading general insurance providers, has been honored as the Best General Bancassurance Provider in Sri Lanka 2024 by the prestigious Global Banking and Finance Review – UK.
The esteemed accolade underscores HNB General Insurance’s unwavering commitment to excellence and its outstanding performance in the field of bancassurance. Through dedication and hard work, the HNB General Insurance team has continuously endeavored to deliver innovative insurance solutions, cultivate strong relationships with banking partners, and provide unparalleled service to customers nationwide. This recognition is a testament to the team’s dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence in the bancassurance business.
“We are honored to receive this prestigious award, which reflects our team’s tireless efforts and dedication to delivering value-added insurance solutions and exceptional service through our bancassurance partnerships,” said Sithumina Jayasundara, CEO of HNB General Insurance. “This recognition reaffirms our position as a trusted insurance provider in Sri Lanka and motivates us to continue striving for excellence in serving our customers and communities.”
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