The Sri Lanka-Canada Business Council (SLCBC) of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce held a productive meeting with members of the Can Lanka Business Association on 16th October 2024. The event brought together business leaders from both organizations, representing a wide range of sectors, including mechanical and electrical engineering, construction, smart agriculture, and finance and investment.
Harrell Fernando, President of Can Lanka, highlighted that the association comprises 12 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and operates as a professional non-profit organization. Can Lanka is dedicated to helping individuals understand and access business and lifestyle opportunities in Canada, while also offering high-quality, economically viable business services. He further emphasized the growing interest of Can Lanka members in exploring business ventures in Sri Lanka, with a particular focus on expanding their presence in the country.
Vice President of the SLCBC, Mohammad Hameez, noted that Sri Lankan delegates showed significant interest in exporting minerals and spices to Canada, a key area of interest for Can Lanka as they explore new business avenues in Sri Lanka. The discussions underscored the potential for collaboration, especially in sectors where demand is rising.
Mr. Priyantha Chandrasekera, President of the SLCBC, assured Can Lanka members of the council’s full support in helping them explore and capitalize on opportunities in Sri Lanka. The meeting revealed promising areas for collaboration, including joint ventures in property development, particularly for motels and hotels in Kuruwita. Additionally, delegates expressed interest in establishing cool rooms for vegetable and fruit storage, sourcing cinnamon from Sri Lanka, and developing retirement homes for Sri Lankan Canadians.
Both parties expressed optimism about future partnerships and agreed to work towards strengthening trade and investment ties between Sri Lanka and Canada. The Sri Lanka-Canada Business Council remains committed to fostering these relationships, contributing to the economic growth of both nations.