Sri Lanka has called on Bangladeshi entrepreneurs to invest in its expanding pharmaceutical sector and explore opportunities in export-oriented industries, as part of efforts to enhance bilateral trade ties.
The appeal was made during a business plenary session titled “Sri Lanka & Bangladesh Economic Ties: Building Bridges for Growth”, held on 18th of June at the National Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka in Colombo, according to an official press release.
The session featured participation from a delegation of the Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI), and included around 150 meetings involving more than 70 Sri Lankan companies.
National Chamber President Anura Warnakulasooriya stressed the importance of stronger private sector collaboration and mutual trust in deepening economic relations.
DCCI President Taskeen Ahmed praised Bangladesh’s economic resilience and competitive sectors such as garments, pharmaceuticals, leather, and ICT, while encouraging Sri Lankan businesses to explore investment opportunities in Bangladesh’s economic zones, which offer incentives and modern infrastructure.
Andre Fernando, President of the Sri Lanka–Bangladesh Business Cooperation Council, specifically urged Bangladeshi investors to help develop Sri Lanka’s pharmaceutical industry.
Sri Lanka Export Development Board Chairman Mangala Wijesinghe highlighted that Bangladesh already supplies pharmaceuticals and ready-made garments to Sri Lanka and emphasized the need for expanded cooperation in packaging, logistics, and agriculture.
Renuka M. Weerakone, Director General of Sri Lanka’s Board of Investment, stated that a proposed free trade agreement (FTA) between the two countries would help eliminate tariff barriers and significantly boost trade. She noted that Sri Lanka has 15 export processing zones dedicated to sectors like pharmaceuticals, textiles, and medical devices.
Both Bangladesh High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Andaleeb Elias, and Sri Lankan High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Dharmapala Weerakkody, expressed support for the FTA proposal.
Former DCCI President Rizwan Rahman added that maritime collaboration and tariff reforms could unlock further trade potential between the two nations.
