Pushpika Janadheera reappointed as chairman of Sri Lanka’s apex rubber products body marks a renewed mandate for industry leadership, as manufacturers and exporters navigate a challenging global trade environment demanding collaboration, innovation, and strategic diversification.
Pushpika Janadheera reappointed as chairman of Sri Lanka rubber body
Pushpika Janadheera reappointed to head the Sri Lanka Association of Manufacturers and Exporters of Rubber Products signals continuity in leadership at a critical juncture for one of the country’s most important value-added export sectors. The Managing Director of Dipped Products PLC was confirmed as chairman at the association’s 15th annual general meeting, reinforcing confidence in his stewardship of the industry body.
SLAMERP represents manufacturers and exporters engaged in the production of value-added rubber products, a segment that plays a vital role in Sri Lanka’s industrial exports and employment base. The association serves as a collective voice for the sector, advocating policy support, promoting global competitiveness, and encouraging innovation across the rubber value chain.
Janadheera’s reappointment comes as the global rubber and manufacturing landscape faces mounting pressures from shifting demand patterns, cost volatility, sustainability requirements, and intensifying competition from regional producers. Industry stakeholders view leadership continuity as essential to maintaining strategic focus while responding to these evolving challenges.
Speaking on the direction of the sector, Janadheera highlighted the importance of unity and adaptability. He noted that the global operating environment remains uncertain, underscoring the need for closer collaboration among manufacturers, exporters, and policymakers. According to him, innovation and strategic diversification will be critical in sustaining growth and safeguarding Sri Lanka’s position in international markets.
Under his leadership, SLAMERP has emphasised strengthening industry capabilities, improving market access, and supporting members in meeting increasingly stringent quality and compliance standards. The association has also played a role in engaging with government institutions on trade policy, labour challenges, and sustainability initiatives affecting the rubber products industry.
The annual general meeting also introduced the proposed office bearers for the 2026–2027 term, outlining a leadership team intended to provide technical expertise and organisational continuity. Dr. Eng. Sisira Ranatunga was named Director General, bringing engineering and sectoral knowledge to the association’s executive framework. Chinthaka Wegapitiya was proposed as Vice Chairman, while Channa De Silva and Palika Chandrajeewa were introduced as Honorary Secretary and Treasurer, respectively.
This leadership structure reflects SLAMERP’s intention to blend technical proficiency with commercial and financial oversight, ensuring that the association remains responsive to both operational and strategic issues facing its membership. Industry observers note that effective coordination among office bearers will be crucial as manufacturers adapt to evolving global supply chains and sustainability expectations.
Pushpika Janadheera’s professional background is widely regarded as an asset to the association. Since joining Dipped Products PLC in 2017, he has overseen operations at one of Sri Lanka’s leading value-added rubber product manufacturers. His earlier experience includes senior roles at Richard Pieris Tyre Company and Associated Motorways, providing him with broad exposure across manufacturing, automotive, and export-oriented businesses.
In addition to his corporate experience, Janadheera brings strong financial and governance credentials to the role. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka, an Associate Member of CIMA UK, and a Chartered Global Management Accountant. He also holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accountancy and an MBA from the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, qualifications that underpin his approach to strategic and financial discipline.
Industry participants have pointed out that such expertise is particularly relevant as rubber product manufacturers confront rising compliance costs, sustainability reporting requirements, and tighter margins. Effective financial management and long-term planning are increasingly central to maintaining competitiveness in export markets.
SLAMERP has reiterated its commitment to supporting manufacturers through advocacy, knowledge-sharing, and engagement with international partners. By promoting best practices and encouraging innovation, the association aims to help members move further up the value chain and reduce exposure to commodity price fluctuations.
As Pushpika Janadheera reappointed to continue his leadership role, expectations remain high that SLAMERP will play an active role in shaping policy dialogue and supporting the sector’s transition toward higher value, sustainability-driven growth. Stakeholders see the renewed mandate as an opportunity to build on existing initiatives while addressing emerging challenges with clarity and cohesion.
With global markets becoming more competitive and environmentally conscious, the rubber products industry faces a decisive period. Leadership stability at SLAMERP is expected to provide a steady platform for manufacturers and exporters as they seek to strengthen Sri Lanka’s reputation as a reliable producer of high-quality, value-added rubber goods.