Import Section of Ceylon Chamber of Commerce holds 91st AGM

Monday, 3 August 2026 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Committee members of the Import Section of The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce

The 91st Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Import Section of The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce was held recently at Shangri-La Colombo, bringing together members of the import and trade community to review the Section’s achievements and outline its priorities for the year ahead.

Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) Chairman Dr. Parakarama Dissanayake attended as the Chief Guest and the keynote speaker, while Maersk Sri Lanka and Maldives Managing Director Biju Ravi delivered the address as Guest Speaker.

Brandix Apparel’s Ushan de Silva was reappointed as Chairman for a second consecutive term. Sankha Gammanpila of Hemas Pharmaceuticals Ltd., was appointed Vice Chairman, while Rajasooriyar Canagasooriyar of Hayleys PLC was appointed Deputy Vice Chairman.

Ushan de Silva reaffirmed the Import Section’s commitment to strengthening Sri Lanka’s trade competitiveness through trade facilitation, digital transformation, and responsible trade practices. While noting that the country’s economic recovery is progressing, he said businesses continue to face rising logistics costs, supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical uncertainty, highlighting the need for a more resilient and efficient trading environment.

He said the Import Section will continue to work closely with policymakers and industry stakeholders to advance practical trade reforms, streamline border processes, and support the implementation of paperless trade initiatives and the National Single Window. He also highlighted the Section’s advocacy over the past year in addressing key trade policy issues and operational challenges faced by importers.

de Silva further emphasised the importance of responsible trade by supporting stronger regulatory compliance and measures to combat illicit trade. Noting that efficient imports are vital to manufacturing, exports, investment, and economic growth, he reaffirmed the Section’s commitment to working with public and private sector stakeholders to build a more competitive and efficient trade ecosystem.

The Committee for the 2026/2027 term comprises representatives from the following member companies: Abans PLC, Astron Ltd., Bank of Ceylon, Brandix Apparel Ltd., Cargills Ceylon PLC, Ceylon Biscuits Ltd., Commercial Bank of Ceylon PLC, Darley Butler and Co., Ltd., Douglas & Sons Ltd., E B Creasy PLC, Fonterra Brands Lanka Ltd., Gnanam Imports Ltd., Hayleys PLC, Hemas Pharmaceuticals Ltd., Maliban Biscuit Manufactories Ltd., Nestlé Lanka, Pyramid Wilmar Ltd., Richard Pieris & Co., PLC, Singer Sri Lanka PLC, and Unilever Sri Lanka Ltd. Thulitha Mendis of Singer Sri Lanka PLC will serve as the Immediate Past Chairman and continue as an ex officio member of the Committee.