National Logistics Day 2025 - SLFFA’s Role in Elevating Sri Lanka’s Logistics Sector

Logistics is the lifeline of global commerce, enabling the seamless flow of goods, services, and trade across borders. Sri Lanka, with its prime location along the East-West maritime corridor, has been a vital logistics hub since ancient times. Despite this legacy, the sector gained structured recognition only in recent decades. In 1981, the Sri Lanka Logistics and Freight Forwarders Association (SLFFA) was established as the unified voice of the logistics and freight forwarding community. Further validation came in 2021 when the Ministry of Transport officially designated August 21st as National Logistics Day, acknowledging the sector’s critical role in economic growth and connectivity. Today, with over 190 members and strong affiliate networks, SLFFA leads the way in advocacy, digital transformation, capacity building, and positioning Sri Lanka as a competitive logistics gateway in the region and beyond.

The Academy of International Trade and Transport (AITT) is the official training arm of SLFFA, dedicated to advancing education and professionalism in Sri Lanka’s logistics and freight forwarding sector. AITT offers internationally recognized programs in supply chain management, logistics, and international trade, equipping students and professionals with the skills required in a fast-evolving global market. By bridging academic knowledge with real-world practices, AITT plays a crucial role in shaping the industry’s future workforce. SLFFA also offers Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) training programs, ensuring that professionals are certified and compliant with international safety and handling standards for hazardous cargo.

Charting the Future of Sri Lanka’s Logistics Industry Through Collaboration and Innovation - By SLFFA Chairman – Channa Gunawardena

Sri Lanka’s logistics industry is built on a proud legacy, and its future holds immense potential. As Chairman of the Sri Lanka Freight Forwarders Association (SLFFA), I believe it is our duty to transform these historical strengths into forward-looking capabilities that meet global standards. Since its inception, SLFFA has served as a unifying voice for logistics professionals across the country. We have remained steadfast in our mission—especially during challenging periods like the COVID-19 pandemic, where our collective resilience and solidarity helped the industry stay afloat.

Today, our priorities are clear: embracing innovation, driving policy reform, and aligning with global logistics trends. We are actively engaged in strategic discussions with government bodies, infrastructure developers, international partners such as the World Bank, ADB, and various research institutions to shape a regulatory environment that fosters efficiency and growth. Our focus extends beyond policy. We are championing digital transformation, promoting sustainable logistics, and advancing smart trade facilitation to ensure Sri Lanka remains competitive on the world stage. The road ahead is one of transformation. With a shared vision and stronger partnerships, we have the opportunity to position Sri Lanka as a leading logistics hub in South Asia—driven by collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to excellence.

Empowering Human Capital and Strengthening Industry Access - By SLFFA Vice Chairman - Andre Fernando

A modern logistics industry is not just built on infrastructure or technology—it’s built on people. As Vice Chairman, I see our greatest opportunity in human capital development and empowerment. Whether it’s large multinational operators or local SME freight forwarders, every contributor deserves equal opportunity and access to growth.

SLFFA actively engages in education, training, and professional development initiatives, especially in collaboration with academic and technical institutions. We aim to prepare the next generation of logistics professionals with skills in supply chain management, digital tools, compliance, and international freight processes.

Another critical area is enabling more inclusivity by increasing membership representation, so that we can ensure a more balanced and vibrant logistics sector. SLFFA’s commitment to talent development is not just a vision—it’s a continuous action plan.

Ensuring Financial Sustainability for Long - Term Sector Growth - By SLFFA Treasurer - Shavindra Dias

Today’s freight forwarding and logistics operations require more than just operational efficiency—they demand financial discipline, strategic planning, and strong governance. As Treasurer of SLFFA, my focus has been on ensuring that our association remains financially resilient, while also supporting the wider industry in navigating market fluctuations and cost pressures.

From global freight rate instability to increasing regulatory requirements, logistics businesses face growing financial complexity. We support our members by promoting best practices in accounting, risk management, pricing strategies, and investment planning. SLFFA also advocates for greater transparency in port clearance processes, and the removal barriers that increase operating costs.

By working with both the public and private sectors, SLFFA is helping shape a more efficient, cost-effective logistics landscape. Our vision is for Sri Lanka’s logistics companies to not only survive but thrive—and remain globally competitive in the long term.

Moving Forward Together

With a governing committee composed of industry veterans and respected professionals—including representatives from companies such as Expelogix, MAC Supply Chain Solutions, Foreway Logistics, Famous Pacific Shipping, Speedmark Transportation, Aitken Spence Cargo, GAC Logistics, SALOTA International, Freight Links International, Shermans Logistics, Scanwell Logistics, DHL Global Forwarding, and EFL Global—SLFFA continues to evolve as a powerful voice and catalyst for the logistics industry.

As Sri Lanka looks to position itself more prominently on the global logistics map, the role of SLFFA has never been more vital. By fostering innovation, supporting workforce development, and promoting financial prudence, SLFFA is not only responding to today’s challenges—but helping shape tomorrow’s opportunities.