AmCham Sri Lanka hosts US member roundtable with Ambassador

Friday, 12 August 2022 02:23 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie J. Chung

AmCham Sri Lanka recently hosted a roundtable discussion for its US member companies and brands to meet with Ambassador of the US in Sri Lanka Ambassador Julie J. Chung and Head of the Economic Section Phill Loosli.

The purpose of this engagement was to provide member companies of US origin, or those representing US brands in Sri Lanka, an opportunity to present a brief introduction of their organisations and discuss any specific matters that challenge or impact their business continuity, which may benefit from the intervention or support of the US Department of State and its agencies, such as the Foreign Commercial Service or the Development Finance Corporation.

AmCham Sri Lanka President Lakshan Madurasinghe, delivering the welcome address, spoke about the multiple challenges for businesses over the past months, such as disruptions to supply chain, issues related to royalty and licensing agreements, forex restrictions, etc.

“A more stable, secure, and prosperous future for Sri Lanka can most definitely be realised by working together, truly collaborating and strengthening US and Sri Lanka investment, trade, and economic opportunities and partnerships which will aid in getting our economy back on track and where it belongs.”

The members introduced their company/brand profiles and had the opportunity to highlight and discuss with the Ambassador and her team the various issues pertaining to business continuity and growth between Sri Lanka and the US, especially at the current time, where US dollar inflow and investment are essential to our economic recovery. Speaking at the event, Ambassador Chung noted that while there is no doubt of the direness of socioeconomic and political situation in the country, it is essential for businesses to practice cautious optimism and resilience. She spoke on the importance and positive socioeconomic impact of the companies represented – ranging from apparel to ICT, manufacturing, and service – through their employment, opportunities, and best practices and urged participants to continue to have positive influence on their teams and organisations.