George Steuart & Co., Sri Lanka’s oldest mercantile establishment, has officially joined the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council (CWEIC) as a Strategic Partner, marking a significant milestone in its global expansion journey.
The partnership was solidified during the visit of CWEIC Deputy Chairman Lord Swire to Sri Lanka, recognizing George Steuart & Co. as a key representative of the nation’s private sector evolution—from colonial-era commerce to modern corporate leadership. The company now joins an exclusive network of nearly 150 business and government Strategic Partners from 35 countries and territories.
CWEIC, a not-for-profit membership organization, operates with an official mandate from the Commonwealth Heads of Government to enhance trade and investment across the 56 Commonwealth nations. The council leverages its extensive network and the shared values of the Commonwealth, led by His Majesty The King, to foster economic collaboration.
Lord Swire emphasized the significance of this partnership, stating, “CWEIC’s mission is to connect businesses across the Commonwealth, leveraging trusted networks to unlock trade and investment opportunities. The addition of George Steuart & Co. reflects Sri Lanka’s growing presence in the global business landscape. This collaboration will open doors for international partnerships within Sri Lanka and beyond.”
With nearly 200 years of business history, George Steuart & Co. has built a reputation for stability, innovation, and international engagement. Originally founded in 1835 by Captain James Steuart, the company has since diversified its operations across tea, health, travel, leisure, financial services, industrial solutions, and FMCG.
Chairman Sarva Ameresekere expressed enthusiasm for the new alliance, stating, “As we approach our 200th year, our focus remains on increasing export revenues and expanding our global footprint. This partnership with CWEIC opens up exciting opportunities for international collaborations across multiple industries.”
Through this collaboration, George Steuart & Co. aims to strengthen its presence in international markets while contributing to the broader Commonwealth trade and investment network.