The Sri Lanka-Canada Business Council (SLCBC) of The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce has successfully wrapped up a significant nine-member trade and investment mission to Canada. Running from 14 to 22 October, this mission aimed to deepen bilateral ties and explore collaborative opportunities across various sectors, including higher education, green agriculture, IT, and tourism. Led by SLCBC President Priyantha Chandrasekara, the delegation engaged with Canadian business leaders, government representatives, academic institutions, and trade organizations to identify key areas for potential cooperation.
Prior to departure, the delegation met with Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, emphasizing the mission’s importance at the highest levels of government.
Highlights of the Mission
On 15 October, the mission held its flagship event, the Sri Lanka-Canada Business Forum, where Canada Sri Lanka Business Convention (CSBC) President Kula Sellathurai highlighted Sri Lanka’s growth prospects in emerging sectors. SLCBC leaders, including President Priyantha Chandrasekara and Vice President Mohammad Hameez, presented Sri Lanka’s strategic trade advantages, with particular focus on the Colombo Port City and the Industrial Processing Zone in Kankesanthurai, which offer attractive investment incentives for Canadian businesses.
The delegation further engaged with the Council of Ontario Universities to discuss educational partnerships, research initiatives, and student exchange programs, especially in STEM fields. Meanwhile, discussions with the J’pura Canada Alumni Association underscored the growing interest in strengthening academic ties between Canada and Sri Lanka.
In Ottawa, Member of Parliament Chandra Arya welcomed the delegation to the Canadian Parliament, discussing ways to reduce trade barriers and support a more favorable business climate. Additionally, the delegation met with Sri Lankan High Commissioner to Canada, U.L. Mohammed Jauhar, to review potential areas for collaboration.
The mission then proceeded to Montreal and Vancouver, where meetings were held with Global Affairs Canada, the Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce, and other business associations. In these sessions, the focus was on expanding Sri Lankan exports, especially in coconut-based products, and exploring partnerships in Agri-Tech, IT, and tourism. A reception in Vancouver with Surrey City Councillor Linda Annis and Honorary Consul Jim Bennett further illustrated the vibrant role of the Sri Lankan diaspora in strengthening ties.
The delegation concluded its mission with reaffirmed commitments from Canadian partners to promote sustainable economic growth and future collaboration. A follow-up event will be held in early 2025, where SLCBC will host Canadian counterparts in Sri Lanka to explore joint venture opportunities and discuss trade and investment plans.