Business
Thai Sumeda incense sticks break into Canadian market
By Steve A. Morrell
Thai Sumedha incense sticks exported to many countries have now broken into the Canadian market. Hitherto, India was the main exporter of this commodity. Breaking into the trade was extremely difficult, said sole proprietor Sumedha Elpitiya at the recent launch of Sumedha incense sticks exports to Canada.
Minister of Trade Bandula Gunawardena and Minister of Industries Wimal Weerawansa were Joint Guests of Honour at the launch of this commodity to be exported to Canada.
Addressing the audience Minister Gunawardena said until recently our traditional exports were those commenced during the time of the British, who concentrated on the export of tea, rubber, coconut and other commodities. But all such products, although originating in this country, were products that were introduced by others . However, in this instance, the export of incense sticks under the brand name Thai Sumedha was a break from what we have been accustomed to. That too to a Western market like Canada, where similar products are perhaps not popular.
‘Irrespective of such a restrictive trade atmosphere, Thai Sumedha incense sticks to Canada marks a new chapter in exports, with the ‘Made in Sri Lanka’ brand that could be used in such export products . The President, informed of this product and the ground breaking reality of such exports reiterated support that the government would extend to ensure the product would reach more international markets, the minister said.
‘Incense sticks were traditionally exported by India to most other countries. Thanks to efforts of Sumedha Epitiya, it is now significant that such products are exported to other countries and reports are that such products were extremely well received. Value of exports of this product according recent information is now $ 22 million . The Cabinet was fully briefed on the firm quality of the product and Cabinet support too would be forthcoming, Gunawardena added.
Minister of Industries, Wimal Weerawansa after launch of the ceremonial package of Thai Sumedha Incense sticks destined to Canada said industries of such innovation and breaking with tradition will be supported by this government.
He said his ministry, the Ministry of Industries , responsible for such industries, would respond positively and encourage their expansion.
Chairman, Thai Sumedha Incense Sticks said while in Thailand to buy garments for his apparel outlet, he decided to visit temples in Bangkok and met a Sri Lankan monk . The monk advised him to develop high quality packs of incense sticks. He said he was diffident at first, that his products may not be marketable, but because of his strong entrepreneurial mind, set up its manufacture and production. In tribute to the origins of this product, he branded the product Thai Sumedha Incense Sticks. Combining the words Thailand and his own name Sumedha.
He was conscious of yet an un explored market and was determined to establish quality that would ensure his product would be accepted internationally.
Thai Sumedha Incense Sticks are now exported to the US, Australia, Germany, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Maldives, Tanzania, Czechoslovakia , UK, Singapore, and Lithuania. Exports to Canada were inaugurated that evening.
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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