Category: Daily Financial Times

Celebrating two decades of innovation, Cenmetrix has emerged as a pioneer and trusted name in Sri Lanka’s digital identity and access management landscape-a company whose technologies continue to redefine how organisations manage identity, security, and efficiency.

Over the past 20 years, Cenmetrix has successfully completed over 10,000 deployments and built long-term partnerships with enterprises across South Asia and beyond-from manufacturing to government and hospitality.

From the outset, Cenmetrix has differentiated itself by prioritising reliability and service quality over short-term sales. This approach has cultivated a loyal customer base and positioned the company as a trusted technology enabler across both private and public sectors.

Cenmetrix Founding Director Farhard Hussain said: ‘We founded Cenmetrix on a simple belief-technology should grow with our clients. Our success lies not in selling products, but in understanding how our solutions can integrate seamlessly into their operations to deliver measurable value.’

At a time when biometric technology was still emerging globally, Cenmetrix became one of Sri Lanka’s first companies to specialise in biometric identification. Though adoption was initially slow, its persistence paid off as industries particularly in manufacturing and security began embracing biometrics for attendance, payroll, and access control. With strong in-house R and D and partnerships with global leaders such as Suprema, Nedap, HID, NXP, and Zebra Technologies, Cenmetrix delivers world-class yet locally relevant solutions across diverse industries.

Cenmetrix’s strength lies in its seamless integration of hardware and software, delivering intelligent solutions that streamline administration and drive operational efficiency. Today, its systems power some of Sri Lanka’s most prominent institutions, including the Defence Ministry, MAS Group, Dialog, and the Parliament of Sri Lanka. The company’s expertise has also extended beyond local borders through key international projects such as the Maldives International Airport, Yaquby Distribution in Bahrain, Easy Secure in the Netherlands, and the U.S. Air Force base in South Korea-underscoring Cenmetrix’s growing global footprint in smart identity and access technology.

Over the years, Cenmetrix has evolved from manual, relationship-driven processes to fully digitised client support systems, without losing its human touch. Preventive maintenance, digital feedback loops, and proactive service models have become integral to its customer experience strategy.

Employee retention has also played a key role in the company’s stability, with nearly half its workforce having been with Cenmetrix for over a decade, a testament to its strong internal culture and shared vision.

Following its success in Sri Lanka, Cenmetrix has expanded operations to Singapore and the United States, and is now entering markets across Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and Africa. The company adopts a partnership-driven approach, collaborating with regional firms to tailor solutions for local market needs while leveraging Cenmetrix’s end-to-end technical expertise.

Cenmetrix Founding Director Ziyam Kamil said: ‘Our global journey is rooted in the same principles that built our success at home, trust, integration and innovation. We believe in empowering partners and clients through technology that’s seamless, secure, and future-ready.’

Looking ahead, Cenmetrix is embedding artificial intelligence (AI), analytics, and automation into its platforms to help organisations make faster, data-driven decisions. The company continues to invest in R and D, global collaborations, and partner enablement to stay ahead of evolving client needs and emerging technologies.

As it looks toward the future, Cenmetrix remains committed to its founding vision: to build trust through quality, evolve through innovation, and strengthen relationships through technology. As it enters its third decade, Cenmetrix remains focused on scaling globally while staying true to its core promise-to innovate with integrity, empower through technology, and build trust in every identity.

Container volumes at the Colombo Port rose 6.7% year-on-year in the first nine months of 2025 to nearly 6.2 million TEUs, up from 5.8 million TEUs a year earlier, as the Government aims to improve efficiency while industrialists warn of recurring vessel omissions leading to production shocks.

As per latest data from Central Bank, throughput in September increased 14.4% to 742,116 TEUs from 648,647 a year ago. Compared with August’s 741,124 TEUs, September’s total was broadly flat, rising 0.13%.

Transhipment activity grew 4.8% in the nine-month period to 4.94 million TEUs, representing the bulk of Colombo’s volumes at nearly 80%. September transhipment reached 584,863 TEUs, up 13.1% year-on-year but lower month-on-month, declining 1.27% from August’s 592,413 TEUs.

Domestic handling increased 13.6% to 971,875 TEUs over the nine months. September volumes stood at 113,551 TEUs, up 12.6% year-on-year but marginally below August’s 113,615 TEUs, easing 0.06%.

Re-stowing operations posted the strongest gains, rising 20% year-on-year to 267,231 TEUs in the nine months. September recorded 43,702 TEUs, a 42.4% annual increase and a 24.5% rise from August’s 35,096 TEUs.

Vessel traffic across Colombo, Galle, Trincomalee and Hambantota increased 12.6% year-on-year to 3,792 ships between January and September. September recorded 457 vessel calls, up 19.6% from 382 a year earlier and unchanged from August.

In the 2026 Budget Speech earlier this month, President and Finance Minister Anura Kumara Dissanayake said the Government plans to strengthen its position in regional port logistics by expanding capacity at the Colombo Port and improving operational efficiency.

Planned initiatives for the year include Phase II of the Western Container Terminal with Asian Development Bank support, feasibility work on the proposed Port Logistics Centres with the World Bank, and preparatory work for the Colombo North Port Development Project.

New trade-facilitation infrastructure such as the Kerawalapitiya Customs Verification Centre and facilities in the Bloemendal area will also be established. The Budget noted that digitalisation and automation efforts, including the Port Community System, are being scaled up to support integrated data management and improve turnaround times.

However, exporters have raised concerns about recurring vessel omissions at the Port of Colombo.

The Free Trade Zone Manufacturers’ Association, in a letter to Ports and Civil Aviation Minister Anura Karunathilaka this month said omissions in recent months have led to shortages of raw materials, production delays and missed export deadlines. Industries dependent on just-in-time logistics, including garments, rubber and electronics, have reported disruptions and higher costs.

The association said the omissions have reduced the reliability of Colombo as a transshipment hub and weakened buyer confidence.

The FTZMA urged the Ministry to work with the Sri Lanka Ports Authority and shipping lines to improve yard efficiency, accelerate inter-terminal transfers, strengthen road connectivity and expedite the commissioning of the East Container Terminal and West Container Terminal.

It also called for regular engagement with major carriers and clearer communication to exporters on measures being taken to stabilise port operations.

Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) General Secretary Tilvin Silva assured members of the Sri Lankan community in London that the National People’s Power (NPP)-led Government remains firmly committed to delivering deep social and economic transformation during its five-year mandate.

‘We are working with an aim, with a plan, and we are reaching those targets gradually. We have no right to mess up the people’s mandate. Our aim is to create a new society, and we will do it,’ he said this weekend.

Silva dismissed concerns that Sri Lanka could slip back into crisis, insisting that the administration was formed specifically to guide the country towards long-term structural change.

‘Sri Lanka is not heading into another crisis or economic pitfall. This Government was created to transform society deeply and to continue this administration for five years,’ he said.

He argued that winning elections and forming a Government are not, by themselves, synonymous with national transformation. ‘Taking power, running a Government, and transforming society are three different things. We are doing that,’ he added.

Reflecting on the conditions in which the NPP took office, Silva said the Government inherited a bankrupt economy.

He criticised former President Ranil Wickremesinghe, asserting that his stabilisation efforts placed the burden on citizens. ‘Some say Ranil Wickremesinghe saved the economy, but he didn’t. All he did was pass the burden on the public by curtailing benefits they should have received,’ he said.

Silva maintained that the current Government’s economic stabilisation measures implemented in consultation with the Central Bank were globally acknowledged. ‘We stabilised the economy by removing most of the barriers on the public. We reopened the economy and allowed imports. Even amidst that, we continue to maintain healthy reserves and economic stability,’ he said.

He also pointed that the Opposition had hoped for ongoing fuel shortages and queues. ‘Wickremesinghe kept saying ‘the next two weeks are crucial’ and that recovery would only come in 2048. But we didn’t sell anything or hang the country on a vine bridge. We simply stabilised the economy gradually with prudent measures,’ he added.

Silva declared that the administration had curbed fraud and corruption at the top level of governance, though he acknowledged such issues persist in lower levels of the public service.

He credited the NPP’s rise to a major shift in public political consciousness. ‘Political perspectives in Sri Lanka have changed intensely. Those who fail to understand that will not succeed. We won because we recognised the change in people’s desire for a new political ideology,’ he said.

Silva challenged the Opposition, saying it lacks the moral and systemic credibility to threaten the Government. ‘The Opposition must become more civilized if they want to topple this Government. Do you think people will allow a country that has eliminated fraud and corruption to return to one where corruption is rampant?’ he asked.

He asserted that only a ‘cleaner system’ could pose a genuine challenge, but opined that the current Opposition does not meet that standard. ‘Same old people, concepts, ideologies and stories. Therefore, nobody should doubt the NPP-led Government running for five years,’ he said.

LOLC General Insurance PLC has advanced to become the 4th largest general insurance provider in Sri Lanka by the end of the third quarter of 2025, as reported in the latest Gross Written Premium (GWP) performance update issued by the Insurance Association of Sri Lanka (IASL). Demonstrating sustained, strategic, and disciplined growth, the company has risen from 7th place in 2019 to 4th by 3Q 2025, a remarkable upward trajectory within a comparatively short period.

Sustaining its upward momentum, the company recorded a robust 17% GWP growth, outperforming the industry growth rate of 15%. This strong performance has elevated LOLC General Insurance’s market share from 8.89% to 9.06%, signalling a noteworthy and consistent year-on-year expansion.

The Motor Insurance segment contributing over 75% to the company’s total general GWP continues to demonstrate commanding performance. It retains its position as the 3rd largest motor insurance provider in the country, supported by an impressive 23% growth by the end of 3Q 2025. This reinforces the segment’s strategic importance and competitive strength within the overall portfolio.

LOLC General Insurance PLC Chairman Kithsiri Gunawardena said: ‘It is truly rewarding to witness the company’s steady progress, moving up to become the 4th largest general insurance provider in Sri Lanka within a short period. This achievement reflects our firm strategic focus, strong leadership, and equally, the enduring confidence our valued customers have placed in us. I extend my sincere appreciation to our valued policyholders, business partners, and our dedicated employees, whose trust, loyalty, and commitment have been instrumental in driving our success and sustaining our growth momentum.’

LOLC General Insurance PLC Chief Operating Officer Udaya Kumara said: ‘This accomplishment highlights the confidence our customers place in us and the commitment of our professional teams across sales, underwriting, and operations. The collective expertise of our team, supported by unparalleled risk management solutions with strong reinsurance backing, streamlined processes, and a customer-centric service culture, continues to drive our growth. As we move forward, our focus remains on delivering innovation, value, and excellence at every customer touchpoint.’

Driven by an extensive branch network, trusted corporate partnerships, and dynamic broker and leasing channels, together with a dedicated Takaful arm offering Sharia-compliant protection LOLC General Insurance remains well positioned to deliver digitally empowered, customer-centric solutions anchored in service excellence. As a proud member of the diversified and globally renowned LOLC Group, the company benefits from the Group’s financial resilience, advanced technological capabilities, and synergistic ecosystem, which collectively reinforce its strong and resilient market presence.

Earning recognition both locally and internationally, LOLC General Insurance said it remains committed to sustainable expansion, continuous innovation, and operational excellence, strengthening its standing as one of Sri Lanka’s most trusted, progressive, and accessible insurers, delivering protection and peace of mind for a better tomorrow.

The proposed draft Bill to establish the Microfinance and Credit Regulatory Authority, intended to strengthen oversight of the country’s microfinance sector came under extensive discussion last week during several high-level Parliamentary committee meetings.

The document was reviewed on 20 November by the Sectoral Oversight Committee on Economic Development and International Relations, the Sub-Committee under the Ministerial Consultative Committee on Rural Development, Social Security and Community Empowerment appointed to address the microfinance debt crisis and the Women Parliamentarians’ Caucus.

The meetings were chaired by MPs Lakmali Hemachandra and Samanmalee Gunasinghe, with officials from the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) and the Treasury Legal Department in attendance.

Officials noted that the initial draft of the Bill had been published in January 2024, after which several petitions were filed before the Supreme Court. The new draft incorporates amendments ordered by the Court, committee-stage proposals submitted by the Finance Ministry and other policy-related revisions. The updated gazette has now been prepared, with the Bill expected to be presented to the 10th Parliament.

According to officials, the primary objective of the legislation is to establish the Microfinance and Credit Regulatory Authority of Sri Lanka, which will oversee money-lending and microfinance activities, provide stronger customer protection, and repeal the existing Microfinance Act No. 6 of 2016.

A key point of discussion was the composition of the Authority’s proposed Board of Directors. Chair Lakmali Hemachandra highlighted concerns over the absence of representation for microfinance customers, noting that those directly affected should have a voice in the regulatory framework.

Members also stressed that women have borne a disproportionate share of the burden arising from unregulated microfinance schemes. They proposed including a representative from the National Commission on Women, the Women and Child Affairs Ministry, or the Secretary of the relevant line ministry on the Board.

Committee members also raised broader concerns regarding the social and economic harm caused by unregulated microfinance operations, which have led to severe indebtedness and community-level crises in multiple regions. They emphasised that the overarching purpose of the Bill must be to prevent such outcomes through firm regulatory oversight.

The Committee instructed officials to incorporate the necessary amendments into the forthcoming Bill, with the Treasury and Central Bank officials noting that further revisions could be introduced during the Committee Stage once the Bill is tabled in Parliament.

Members of the Sectoral Oversight Committee on Economic Development and International Relations, members of the Women Parliamentarians’ Caucus of the Parliament of Sri Lanka, Members of the Sub Committee under the Ministerial Consultative Committee on Rural Development, Social Security and Community Empowerment established to identify future steps to resolve the microfinance debt issue, and several officials participated in this meeting.

Elpitiya Plantations recently held two distinguished award ceremonies for its Upcountry and Low Country estate staff to recognise and celebrate their dedication, hard work, and outstanding contributions to the company’s success. These events were a testament to the company’s ongoing commitment to its workforce and the vital role estate employees play in maintaining the quality and productivity of its plantations.

The Upcountry Region ceremony was held on 31 October at the scenic Araliya Green Hills Hotel in Nuwara Eliya, attended by over 200 staff members. The event was graced by Elpitiya Plantations PLC Managing Director Dr. Rohan Fernando and Director/CEO Geeth Kumara Dayananda. In a warm and inspiring ceremony, over 100 awards were presented to estate staff who demonstrated exceptional dedication, skill, and service. The awards covered a broad range of categories recognising excellence in productivity, innovation, and long service.

Following this, the Low Country Region recognised its team on 7 November in Hikkaduwa, also hosting over 200 staff members and presenting over 100 awards. The awards recognised not only individual achievements but also team efforts that have contributed to the success and sustainability of the plantations.

Elpitiya Plantations has a longstanding tradition of valuing its employees, acknowledging that their passion and perseverance are the foundation of the company’s reputation and growth. Dr. Rohan Fernando said: ‘Our estate staff are the true pillars of Elpitiya Plantations. Their dedication sustains our operations and drives our commitment to excellence in all aspects of plantation management.’

Geeth Kumara Dayananda said, ‘These ceremonies are about more than just awards. They are about honoring the spirit of teamwork, resilience, and loyalty that define our workforce. We are proud to invest in our people and celebrate their successes which inspire us all.’

These award ceremonies also serve as an important platform for encouraging continuous improvement and innovation in estate operations. By publicly acknowledging the hard work of its employees, Elpitiya Plantations fosters a culture that values quality, safety, and sustainability, which is critical in today’s competitive agricultural environment.

With more than 400 employees recognised across the two regions, Elpitiya Plantations is setting a strong example in the plantation industry, demonstrating that investing in people is just as critical as investing in land and machinery. Moving forward, the company will continue to support employee development through training, career growth opportunities, and wellbeing initiatives to ensure a vibrant and motivated team.

The Bank of Ceylon was honoured to take part in the launch of Sri Lanka’s latest public transport digitalisation initiative, at the Makumbura Multimodal Transport Centre. This is a significant milestone, introducing bank card payments for bus fares on selected routes for the first time in the country. The pilot project, led jointly by the Ministry of Transport and Highways and the Ministry of Digital Technology, signals a shift toward a more efficient, transparent, and commuter-friendly travel experience for millions of passengers.

The event was graced by Transport Minister Bimal Rathnayake, who announced that passengers will now be able to pay bus fares using any bank-issued credit or debit card on buses equipped with approved ticketing machines. Representing the Bank of Ceylon were Non-Executive Director Dr. A.K.L. Illesinghe, Acting General Manager / Chief Executive Officer Y.A. Jayathilaka, Acting Deputy General Manager – Product and Banking Development Suresh Perera, Assistant General Manager – Digital Products Promotions Saman K. Wickramasinghe, Assistant General Manager – Marketing Buddhika Premaratne, Assistant General Manager – Western Province South Asanka Benthara Vithanage, and Assistant General Manager – Electronic Banking Centre I.U.K.D. Wijegunawardena. Their participation signalled the Bank’s strong role in enabling secure, reliable digital payment solutions for the transport sector.

The new card-payment system directly addresses long-standing issues within bus transport, particularly the widespread challenge of passengers not receiving change and the heavy reliance on cash transactions. By enabling quick, tap-and-go digital payments, the initiative aims to improve transparency, minimise disputes, and reduce delays during boarding. It also allows authorities to monitor route performance more accurately and introduce data-driven improvements over time.

For the Bank of Ceylon, involvement in this pilot aligns with its long-standing support for digital access and public sector modernisation. With its extensive digital banking infrastructure, the Bank is positioned to support the scaling of secure fare collection systems across transport modes.

ISSO, the fast-growing, prawn-focused fast-casual dining chain from Sri Lanka, yesterday announced its recognition in the highly exclusive Forbes DGEMS 200 List for 2025.

The list, which spotlights the world’s most dynamic, innovative, and globally scalable emerging companies, validates ISSO’s position as a global disruptor, poised to take its unique Indian Ocean flavour and model to international markets.

ISSO, founded in 2016 by CEO Apinash Sivagumaaran, has redefined the Quick-Service Restaurant (QSR) space by entering its concept on a single luxury ingredient: Export-quality, sustainably sourced Sri Lankan prawns (ISSO means prawns in Sinhala). By streamlining operations and focusing on the supply chain from the pristine waters of Jaffna and Chilaw to the plate at their restaurants, ISSO has successfully created an accessible, delicious, and consistent seafood experience.

ISSO Restaurants Founder and CEO Apinash Sivagumaaran said: ‘Being named in the Forbes DGEMS 200 is not just a recognition of our business model; it’s a powerful validation of Sri Lankan entrepreneurship on the world stage. Our mission has always been simple – to disrupt the QSR market by reintroducing export-quality prawns as an affordable daily food option. This listing confirms that our dedication to quality, our technology-driven scale, and our focus on community-sourced ingredients are a blueprint for global success.’

The Forbes DGEMS 200 selection criteria recognise high-potential companies based on innovation, growth trajectory, investment capital, and cross-border expansion capability. ISSO’s inclusion highlights:

Market disruption: Successfully transforming a traditional luxury item (export-quality prawn) into a scalable, premium fast-casual concept.

Operational excellence: Leveraging efficient, tech-enabled kitchens and a bespoke, traceable ‘Ocean-to-Plate’ supply chain to ensure consistent, premium quality.

Global readiness: Demonstrating scalability through its five outlets in Sri Lanka and initial overseas presence, paving the way for international franchising and expansion into high-growth markets.

This recognition marks a turning point for ISSO, accelerating its ambitious strategy to open 100 outlets worldwide by 2030 in key first-world markets, proudly carrying the flag for high-quality Sri Lankan prawns and representing Sri Lankan cuisine.

Adithya Weerasinghe emerged victorious in the Boys’ Gold Division (15-18 years) at the Nuwara Eliya Regional Junior Golf Championship. The tournament, organised by Sri Lanka Golf and sponsored by Prima Sunrise Bread, was held from the 21 to 23 November at the scenic Nuwara Eliya Golf Club. Hailing from Anuradhapura and now studying at Ananda College, Weerasinghe demonstrated remarkable skill and composure to claim the top honour.

Weerasinghe dominated the competitive division from the outset, setting the pace with an opening round of 73. He maintained his lead despite a challenging second day, sealing his victory with a stellar final round of 72. His three-day total of 224 secured the gold medal, holding off consistent pressure from runner-up Kaiyan Johnpillai, who finished with a credible total of 231.

In the corresponding Girls’ Gold Division, Keya Abhayaratne delivered a powerful performance to claim the title. Posting rounds of 97, 95, and 95, she finished with a total of 287. Anumi Karunathilake put up a strong fight, especially in the final round, to secure the second position with a score of 293.

The Silver Division (13-14 years) also showcased exceptional talent. Lavindu Premarathna achieved a rare feat of consistency in the Boys’ category, shooting 80 in all three rounds for a winning total of 240. The Girls’ Silver title was captured decisively by Kaitlyn Norton, whose total of 281 placed her well ahead of the competition.

Younger competitors in the Bronze (11-12 years) and Copper (10 and under) divisions displayed impressive skill. Kenul Scofield won the Boys’ Bronze with a brilliant final round of 59, while Vihara Herath took the Girls’ title, highlighted by a superb round of 58. In the Copper Division, Abhiman Abeywardhana dominated the Boys’ category, and Thangaraja Sithumli emerged as the Girls’ champion.

Pan Asia Banking Corporation PLC has entered into a strategic partnership with Prime EV Automobiles, the authorised representative of the Deepal electric vehicle brand in Sri Lanka.

This collaboration was formalised through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at promoting eco-friendly leasing solutions, such as Pan Asia Bank’s EV Plus, and accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles across the country. This initiative underscores Pan Asia Bank’s dedication to driving Sri Lanka’s green transition by making sustainable mobility more accessible and affordable.

The partnership enables customers of Prime EV Automobiles to enjoy exclusive leasing facilities from Pan Asia Bank when purchasing electric vehicles, making EV ownership more accessible, affordable, and convenient. Through this collaboration, Pan Asia Bank aims to further strengthen its position as a pioneer in green leasing, supporting the country’s transition toward cleaner energy and sustainable transport solutions.

Pan Asia Bank Director/CEO Naleen Edirisinghe said: ‘As a bank deeply committed to sustainability, we are proud to join hands with Prime EV Automobiles to support Sri Lankans to make the shift towards electric mobility. Our specialised leasing solutions are designed to make EV ownership easier while helping customers contribute to a greener tomorrow.’

With this partnership, customers can look forward to customised leasing packages for Prime EV’s range of electric vehicles, supported by streamlined financing processes and value-added services. The collaboration also reinforces Pan Asia Bank’s broader vision of becoming the country’s most eco-conscious financial partner through innovative green lending and leasing programs.