The 25th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Sri Lanka – Germany Business Council (SLGBC) took place recently at Hilton Colombo Residences, Colombo 2, with the presence of Chief Guest, Federal Republic of Germany Ambassador Dr. Felix Neumann.
Dr. Neumann emphasized the enduring partnership between Sri Lanka and Germany, highlighting Germany’s readiness to support Sri Lanka’s economic recovery efforts, particularly in skilled labour migration and vocational training. Institutions like German Tech in Moratuwa and Kilinochchi were cited as examples of the longstanding impact of these initiatives.
He also noted the strong presence of around 300 German brands in Sri Lanka, renowned for reliability, and emphasized Germany’s commitment during Sri Lanka’s economic challenges, with no German companies withdrawing from the market. On tourism, Germany was recognized as the fourth-largest source market for Sri Lanka, contributing over 7% of arrivals in 2024, with 121,000 German tourists recorded by November.
Asoka Hettigoda, Chairman and Managing Director of Hettigoda Industries, was re-elected as President for 2024-2025. In his address, he highlighted Germany’s role as Sri Lanka’s fourth-largest export market, with exports like rubber, tea, and textiles totaling $888 million in 2022, while German imports, including machinery, chemicals, and motor vehicles, amounted to $300 million. Germany also stands as Sri Lanka’s second-largest EU investor, creating over 11,700 local jobs through 51 companies since 1951.
The AGM also witnessed the election of Karim Schadlou, General Manager of Hilton Colombo Residences, and Roy Anthony, Director of C.G.V. Anthony & Sons Ltd., as Vice Presidents. Member companies such as Air Global Ltd., Aitken Spence Cargo Ltd., and Diesel & Motor Engineering PLC were appointed to the Committee.
Outgoing President, Surendra Ediriweera of Ceylon Tours Ltd., will continue serving as Immediate Past President.
For 25 years, the SLGBC has fostered trade, tourism, and investment between the two nations, facilitating exchanges of trade missions, delegations, and joint ventures while promoting Sri Lanka’s participation in international fairs in Germany.