Saturday Feb 07, 2026
Saturday Feb 07, 2026
Friday, 6 February 2026 15:22 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
VISION
To promote social harmony through productive employment.
MISSION
To encourage workers, their organizations and the Government to co- operate with business for the attainment of the following objectives:
In an era where sustainable business practices, green skills, and strategic resilience are more vital than ever, The Employers’ Federation of Ceylon (EFC) continues to play a pivotal role as Sri Lanka’s leading National Employer Organization. Guided by a strong commitment to fostering societal harmony and economic progress, EFC remains at the forefront of driving change across key areas of national importance.
Throughout the year 2024/25, EFC has led impactful initiatives focused on promoting sustainability, building a technologically savvy workforce, and supporting employers in overcoming economic challenges within the framework of Good Governance and Social Responsibility. These efforts reflect our unwavering dedication to empowering organizations, strengthening people- centered practices, and shaping a future-ready world of work.
Social Responsibility and Good Governance:
In promoting such initiatives, the first session of our symposium was dedicated to the theme Sustainable Business Initiatives.
Accordingly, the Employers’ Symposium 2025 opened with a focused discussion fully dedicated to addressing key topics related to the ecological, demographic, and regulatory environment. This set the tone for a year centered on advancing responsible and sustainable business practices.
EFC remains committed to aligning business strategies with evolving realities by supporting initiatives that deliver long-term value for both people and the planet. We actively respond to the regulatory environment by ensuring compliance with legal and ethical standards, and by guiding our members through complex policy developments.
In support of empowering local businesses, we continue to drive inclusive economic growth, helping SMEs build resilience and adapt to modern market demands.
Our commitment to protecting the ecological environment is reflected in our efforts in promotion of sustainable operations, resource efficiency, and climate- conscious innovation across industries through membership.
In responding to demographic and social shifts, we promote members to advocate for inclusive workplaces that value diversity, equity, and participation— ensuring all individuals can contribute meaningfully to the world of work.
These efforts reaffirm EFC’s role in leading a forward-thinking, sustainable, and inclusive business agenda.
Women Empowerment and Gender Equality
The EFC continued to promote inclusive and equitable workplace practices through a range of initiatives focused on gender equality and the empowerment of women. Customized training programmes conducted during the year included sessions on Gender Equity and Positive Employee Relations, aimed at fostering respectful and inclusive work environments. Further supporting this commitment, the EFC participated as panelists and guest speakers at events organized by member companies to commemorate International Women’s Day, highlighting the importance of advancing gender equality and celebrating the contributions of women in the workforce.
Employer Network on Disability
Under the Network on Disability, the Specialized Training and Disability Resource Centre of the EFC continued its vital work in promoting inclusion, accessibility, and empowerment for people with disabilities. Throughout the year, the Centre conducted company-based training sessions on disability sensitivity and inclusion at organizations such as the Dutch Lanka Friendship Foundation, HSBC, and MAS Capital, as well as educational programmes for students at Shanthi Maargam Institute and the National Institute of Social Development. It also carried out Disability Accessibility Audits at the Ceylon Cold Stores Ranala Factory, its Head Office, and MAS Capital, offering actionable recommendations to improve physical accessibility. Further extending its impact, the Centre facilitated the island wide distribution of white canes to visually impaired individuals, supported by individual donors demonstrating a comprehensive, rights-based approach to creating inclusive environments across sectors.
Occupational Safety and Health
Under the theme of Occupational Safety and Health, EFC partnered with the International Labour Organization (ILO) in 2024 through the global flagship programme, ‘Safety + Health for All in South Asia’, to enhance workplace safety for plantation workers in Sri Lanka. The initiative, jointly implemented by EFC’s HR Solutions and Training Units, included a comprehensive Time and Motion Study across ten critical job roles in both field and factory operations, such as tea plucking, pruning, and chemical handling. Conducted across four estates representing both low country and up-country regions, the study combined quantitative and qualitative methods, including field visits, estate level data analysis, management consultations, and worker focus groups. The findings provided valuable insights into repetitive job functions and associated occupational hazards, while also highlighting workers’ OSH awareness and suggestions for improvement. This initiative underscores EFC’s commitment to promoting safer, healthier work environments in line with ILO Conventions No. 155 and 187, now recognized as Fundamental Conventions.
MEMBERSHIP
The Employers’ Federation of Ceylon (EFC) was established in 1929 as an organization of employers dealing with labour and social issues in Sri Lanka. It is today the principal organization of employers, promoting employer interests at national level, especially focusing on industrial relations and labour law. The EFC possesses extensive expertise and skills to address the needs of employers in the domain of Labour Law, Employment and Industrial Relations.
EFC MEMBERSHIP CATEGORIES
Employer Groups
The following are the Employer Groups of the EFC representing different business sectors:
