CEOs Roundtable holds strategic discussion on trade and business between SL and India

Wednesday, 2 July 2025 00:08 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Organised by Ceylon Chamber of Commerce and Indo-Lanka Chamber of Commerce and Industry, in collaboration with the High Commission of India

A high-powered Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) delegation of Indian CEOs representing sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, renewable energy, education, and tourism met with Sri Lankan business leaders at the ITC Ratnadipa in Colombo on 30 June for a strategic roundtable discussion.

The roundtable was organised by The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce and the Indo-Lanka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ILCCI), in collaboration with the High Commission of India. The Ceylon Chamber delegation was led by Chairman Krishan Balendra and the CII delegation was led by CII Immediate Past President and ITC Ltd. Managing Director Sanjiv Puri.

The discussions focused on improving trade facilitation, aligning regulatory frameworks, and encouraging investment flows between the two countries. There was a strong emphasis on unlocking sector-specific opportunities through joint ventures, knowledge-sharing, and sustained business dialogue.

Indian High Commissioner Santosh Jha noted: “India has a Neighbourhood First policy, which means a more generous, non-reciprocal approach to the relationship towards our neighbours, and Sri Lanka is a central part of that Neighbourhood First policy.”

Balendra remarked: “We are lucky to be right next door to the fastest growing economy in the world, and it’s about how we tap into that opportunity and collaborate with the private sector in India.”

Puri observed that there are several trends that are providing opportunities across the world, and his belief is that there is a great opportunity for businesses in India and Sri Lanka to work together, not only to address opportunities in their domestic markets but also for the larger global market.

ILCCI President M. Raghuraman, in his closing remarks, highlighted the successes achieved by both countries, driven by the determination and initiative of the business communities. He also emphasised the importance of such forums as valuable platforms for the exchange of ideas and collaboration.

The roundtable concluded with a commitment to build on the discussions and maintain structured engagement through chamber networks and ongoing business collaboration.

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