Melstacorp to enter healthcare biz

Business tycoon Harry Jayawardena-controlled Melstacorp PLC is to enter into the booming healthcare industry. 

The Company said it will set up a subsidiary shortly to foray into healthcare, including management of hospitals, operating diagnostics centres, and involvement in related  healthcare institutions, as and when opportunities arises.  Initially it will set up a diagnostic infrastructure and management of selected hospitals. 

A holding company, Melsta Health Ltd., has been incorporated, through which investments in health related fields would be made. 

At present, Melstacorp is a diversified conglomerate with business interests spanning beverages, plantations, telecommunication, financial services and other diversified sectors. 

Previously, the Group partly-owned Lanka Hospitals Corporation PLC, and within the Group has much healthcare expertise and has been looking for new opportunities. A deal on managing a small yet renowned private hospital is on the cards, the Daily FT learns.