Business
SLGJA confident US $2 billion revenue target from gem exports is achievable
The Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Association (SLGJA) officially recognized by the Sri Lankan Government, commends President Ranil Wickremesinghe for his recent endorsement of the pivotal role played by the gem and jewellery sector in the national economy. The SLGJA expresses deep appreciation for President Wickremesinghe’s unwavering commitment to the enhancement of gem and jewellery exports and re-exports, a strategy that holds great potential to invigorate the economy.
President Wickremesinghe’s emphasis on the significance of the gem and jewellery industry resonates strongly with the SLGJA, which views this recognition as an essential step towards a brighter future for the sector. The association warmly welcomes the government’s focus on fostering an environment conducive to growth and development within the industry.
In response to President Wickremesinghe’s call for increased export revenue, the SLGJA affirms its eagerness to engage in productive discussions with the relevant authorities. The association’s members are keenly interested in understanding and fulfilling the requirements set forth by the government to ensure the prosperity of the industry. Ajward Deen, President of the Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Association, said “As the apex body for the industry, we look forward to actively collaborating with the government and relevant stakeholders to drive the growth, innovation, and global recognition of our industry. Together, we can create an environment that propels our nation to new heights of success.”
Underpinning the vision of a thriving gem and jewellery sector is the industry’s strategic plan, designed to chart a course for growth over the next 10 to 15 years. The SLGJA acknowledges the notable efforts being made by the industry to implement a hub strategy that will shape its trajectory for years to come.
The association firmly believes that with the right policies in place, the true potential of the gem and jewellery industry can be unleashed, towards achieving the President’s target of achieving at least $2 billion in export revenue. The SLGJA is confident that this goal is well within reach and that a rejuvenated gem and jewellery sector will undoubtedly contribute to the economic prosperity of Sri Lanka.
Business
AHK Sri Lanka champions first-ever Sri Lankan delegation at Drupa 2024
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.
Business
HNB General Insurance recognized as Best General Bancassurance Provider in Sri Lanka 2024
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.”