Ceylon Chamber AGM to spotlight UK ties, competitiveness as Sri Lanka’s premier business chamber prepares to bring together business leaders, policymakers and diplomats to discuss strengthening trade relations, enhancing private sector performance and supporting long-term economic growth.
Ceylon Chamber AGM to spotlight UK ties, competitiveness and policy priorities
The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce announced that its 187th Annual General Meeting (AGM) will focus on reinforcing commercial ties with the United Kingdom while highlighting the private sector’s role in improving competitiveness and advancing policy reforms.
The event will feature UK High Commissioner Andrew Patrick as the keynote speaker. His address is expected to reflect on the close and longstanding relationship between Sri Lanka and the United Kingdom, particularly at a time when strengthening bilateral trade, boosting investor confidence and sustaining economic reforms remain key priorities for the country’s business community.
According to the Chamber, the High Commissioner’s participation is particularly significant given the growing emphasis on expanding trade partnerships and creating an environment that supports investment-led growth.
Chairperson Krishan Balendra will deliver the Chamber’s annual address, reviewing the organisation’s achievements over the past year while outlining its strategic priorities for the months ahead.
The Ceylon Chamber AGM to spotlight UK ties, competitiveness will also provide a platform to reaffirm the Chamber’s commitment to strengthening the private sector through evidence-based policy advocacy and initiatives that contribute to long-term economic resilience.
Balendra is expected to present an overview of the Chamber’s continued efforts to improve the competitiveness of Sri Lankan businesses, engage constructively with policymakers and support reforms aimed at creating a more stable and predictable economic environment.
The Chamber has consistently advocated for policies that encourage investment, improve the ease of doing business and enhance Sri Lanka’s attractiveness as a regional business destination. These priorities have become increasingly important as the country continues its economic recovery and seeks to build sustainable growth through private sector participation.
Strengthening partnerships with international stakeholders, including the United Kingdom, remains a key component of this strategy. Enhanced trade cooperation, investment opportunities and business collaboration are viewed as essential to expanding market access and supporting the country’s export-led growth ambitions.
The AGM is expected to attract representatives from the corporate sector, diplomatic community, government institutions and development partners, providing an opportunity for dialogue on the future direction of Sri Lanka’s economy and the role of business in driving inclusive development.
Discussions are also expected to reinforce the importance of Sri Lanka economic reforms, particularly those that improve policy consistency, strengthen investor confidence and encourage innovation across industries.
The event is scheduled to take place on Thursday, 25 June, at 5.30 p.m. at The Forum, Cinnamon Life, Colombo. Following the formal proceedings, members and invited guests will participate in a networking reception, offering an opportunity to strengthen professional relationships and explore new avenues for business collaboration.
As Sri Lanka continues to pursue economic transformation, the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce remains a leading voice representing the interests of the private sector while promoting policies that support sustainable economic development and international competitiveness.