Theme: Business for MSMEs - Connecting the Entrepreneurs Inaugural Session of CMA Sri Lanka MSME Business Development Summit 2025

Wednesday, 30 July 2025 14:24 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Address by Chief Guest Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe, Governor - Central Bank of Sri Lanka

Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe

Delivering the keynote address, the Governor of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka underscored the critical role of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in driving national economic development. Representing over 75% of all businesses and contributing more than 50% to GDP, MSMEs provide employment to over 3 million Sri Lankans, forming the backbone of local economies.

Despite their importance, MSMEs face ongoing challenges including limited access to finance, regulatory burdens, and a widening digital divide. The Governor emphasized the need for greater financial inclusion and digital transformation to ensure MSMEs remain competitive in an evolving economy.

Looking ahead, the Governor stressed the importance of strengthening entrepreneurial ecosystems through collaboration between government, financial institutions, technology providers, and education sectors. He praised the efforts of the CMA Sri Lanka SME Development Committee for its support in advancing the sector.

Calling for inclusive innovation and better connectivity among stakeholders, the Governor concluded by reaffirming the Central Bank’s commitment to empowering MSMEs to not only survive but thrive—driving Sri Lanka’s long-term economic recovery and prosperity.