Category: Daily Financial Times

As Sri Lanka marks the National Energy Day, the conversation around energy is no longer confined to power generation. It has evolved into a broader discussion about economic resilience, national competitiveness, environmental responsibility, and the kind of future we wish to create for generations to come.

The global energy landscape is undergoing a profound transformation. Nations across the world are accelerating their transition towards cleaner, more sustainable energy systems, recognising that energy security and sustainability are no longer separate objectives but two sides of the same coin. For emerging economies such as Sri Lanka, this transition presents both a challenge and a significant opportunity.

Rising electricity demand, urbanisation, fluctuating global fuel prices, and growing climate-related challenges are reshaping how we think about energy. The question is no longer whether we should transition to renewable energy, but how quickly and effectively we can make that transition while ensuring economic growth and energy affordability.

Among the many renewable energy resources available to us, solar energy represents one of the country’s greatest untapped opportunities. Blessed with abundant sunshine throughout the year, Sri Lanka possesses the natural advantage to become a regional leader in renewable energy adoption. However, realizing this potential requires more than technology alone. It demands long-term vision, policy consistency, private sector investment, and a collective commitment to reimagining our energy future.

At Regen Renewables, they believe that the transition to clean energy is not simply an environmental initiative. It is an economic necessity and a strategic investment in national resilience. Every investment made in renewable energy strengthens energy independence, reduces exposure to global fuel market volatility, creates skilled employment opportunities, and contributes to a more sustainable economy.

Additionally, recognizing the growing importance of ESG principles and sustainable business practices, Regen Renewables recently hosted an educational session and panel discussion focused on ESG for businesses. The session brought together industry experts and business leaders to share insights on sustainability, responsible governance, and the role of clean energy in driving long-term business competitiveness.

Today, access to clean energy continues to emerge as a critical component of corporate sustainability strategies, ESG commitments, and future-ready business operations. As industries seek to reduce their carbon footprint and improve operational efficiency, renewable energy solutions are emerging as a powerful enabler of sustainable growth. Businesses that embrace this transition today will be better positioned to meet future regulatory requirements, stakeholder expectations, and market demands.

Lakmal Fernando, Managing Director and CEO of Regen Renewables, stated: ‘National Energy Day is a reminder that energy is far more than a utility, it is the foundation upon which economies grow, industries thrive, and societies prosper. The decisions we make today regarding energy will determine our environmental sustainability, economic competitiveness, and energy security for decades to come.

Sri Lanka has an extraordinary opportunity to leverage its natural resources and accelerate the transition towards cleaner and more resilient energy systems. However, achieving this vision cannot be the responsibility of a single stakeholder. It requires meaningful collaboration between policymakers, businesses, financial institutions, and consumers. Governments must create enabling policy frameworks that encourage renewable energy adoption, the private sector must continue investing in innovation and infrastructure, financial institutions must support the transition through accessible green financing, and consumers must embrace more sustainable energy choices. Together, these collective efforts can accelerate the development of a cleaner, more resilient energy ecosystem.

The future belongs to nations that act decisively, invest wisely, and embrace innovation. Renewable energy is no longer a future aspiration, it is a present-day necessity and one of the most powerful investments we can make towards ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for generations to come.’

As Sri Lanka continues its journey towards a more sustainable and resilient future, the opportunity before us has never been greater. The nation possesses the natural resources, technological capabilities, and growing public awareness required to accelerate the transition towards cleaner energy solutions. By embracing renewable energy, encouraging innovation, investing in modern energy infrastructure, and fostering meaningful collaboration between the public and private sectors, Sri Lanka can create an energy ecosystem that is not only environmentally sustainable but also economically robust and energy secure.

Such a transformation will reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels, strengthen national resilience against global energy uncertainties, create new employment and investment opportunities, and support long-term economic growth. Most importantly, it will enable us to build an energy system that is cleaner, stronger, and capable of powering the nation’s aspirations, prosperity, and sustainable development goals for decades to come.

Sri Lanka, a picturesque island nation in the Indian Ocean, is undergoing a transformative shift in its energy sector. As the country strives to enhance its renewable energy capabilities, smart grid technology is emerging as a game-changer. This integration is not only optimising the use of solar and wind power but also significantly improving the overall efficiency and reliability of Sri Lanka’s energy infrastructure.

The renewable energy landscape in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s commitment to renewable energy is underscored by its ambitious targets and projects aimed at reducing dependence on fossil fuels. The Government has set a goal to achieve 70% of its electricity generation from renewable sources by 2030. This vision is driven by the island’s abundant natural resources, including ample sunlight and strong winds, which are ideal for solar and wind energy production.

Solar energy has seen remarkable growth in Sri Lanka. The country has invested heavily in large-scale solar farms, such as the 100 MW Kandalama Solar Park and several smaller installations across the island. Similarly, wind power projects, including the 100 MW Phase I of the Mannar Wind Farm, are tapping into the consistent wind patterns of the northern region.

Enter smart grids: A technological revolution

Smart grids represent a significant leap forward in how energy is managed and distributed. Unlike traditional grids, which are largely passive and reactive, smart grids use advanced digital technology to enhance the efficiency, reliability, and sustainability of electricity distribution. They integrate information and communication technologies (ICT) to monitor and manage the flow of electricity in real-time.

In Sri Lanka, the integration of smart grid technology is revolutionising the energy sector by addressing several critical challenges:

1. Enhanced grid stability: Smart grids offer improved stability by dynamically adjusting to fluctuations in energy supply and demand. This is particularly crucial in a country like Sri Lanka, where renewable energy sources such as solar and wind are variable. Smart grids can swiftly manage these fluctuations and reduce the likelihood of blackouts or power outages.

2. Optimised energy distribution: With smart grid technology, Sri Lanka can better manage the distribution of electricity from renewable sources. Advanced sensors and meters provide real-time data on energy production and consumption, allowing for more precise balancing of supply and demand. This helps in minimising energy losses and reducing the need for excess energy generation.

3. Increased integration of renewables: Smart grids facilitate the integration of diverse renewable energy sources by accommodating their variable nature. They enable better forecasting and storage solutions, which are essential for maintaining a steady energy supply despite the intermittent nature of solar and wind power.

4. Consumer benefits: For consumers, smart grids offer several advantages. Advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) allows for more accurate billing and real-time feedback on energy usage. This empowers consumers to make informed decisions about their energy consumption, potentially leading to cost savings and increased awareness about energy efficiency.

Key projects and initiatives

Sri Lanka’s journey toward a smart grid-enhanced renewable energy sector is marked by several notable projects and initiatives:

The Ceylon Electricity Board’s (CEB) Smart Grid Pilot Project: One of the pioneering efforts in this domain, the CEB’s pilot project aims to demonstrate the benefits of smart grid technology. The project involves the installation of smart meters and grid management systems in select regions to evaluate their impact on energy efficiency and reliability.

The National Renewable Energy Grid Integration Plan: This strategic plan outlines the integration of various renewable energy sources into the national grid. It emphasises the need for smart grid infrastructure to handle the growing share of renewables and ensure a seamless transition to a low-carbon energy system.

International Collaboration and Funding: Sri Lanka has garnered support from international organisations and funding agencies to advance its smart grid and renewable energy initiatives. Collaborations with entities such as the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the World Bank have provided both technical expertise and financial resources to accelerate these efforts.

Environmental and economic impact

The shift to smart grids and renewable energy sources is having a profound impact on Sri Lanka’s environment and economy. By reducing reliance on fossil fuels, the country is lowering greenhouse gas emissions and contributing to global climate change mitigation efforts. This not only helps preserve Sri Lanka’s natural beauty but also aligns with international environmental agreements.

Economically, the deployment of smart grids and renewable energy technologies is creating new job opportunities and fostering innovation. The renewable energy sector is becoming a significant driver of economic growth, attracting investment and boosting local industries. Additionally, the efficiency gains from smart grids translate into lower operational costs for energy providers, which can be passed on to consumers in the form of reduced electricity prices.

Looking ahead

Sri Lanka’s integration of smart grid technology into its renewable energy strategy represents a bold step toward a sustainable and resilient energy future. As the island nation continues to expand its renewable energy capacity and enhance its grid infrastructure, smart grids will play a crucial role in realising its energy goals.

By embracing this technological revolution, Sri Lanka is not only improving its energy sector but also setting an example for other nations seeking to balance economic growth with environmental stewardship. The journey towards a greener, smarter energy future is well underway, promising a brighter and more sustainable future for the people of Sri Lanka.

The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) has used this year’s Day of the Seafarer to call for greater protection for crews working in dangerous waters, warning that ships carry ‘more than cargo’ when they pass through areas affected by conflict and geopolitical tension.

In a special message for the campaign, IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez said the day was an opportunity to recognise the millions of seafarers around the world who keep global trade moving every day.

Behind the food, fuel, medicine and everyday goods relied upon by millions of people, he said, are men and women working at sea, often far from home and family.

The 2026 campaign, held under the theme ‘Carrying world trade. Carrying the risks’, seeks to place seafarers at the centre of the global trade story, particularly at a time when many crews are sailing through areas affected by conflict and geopolitical tension.

Dominguez said this year’s theme feels especially significant, as too many seafarers are facing long periods at sea, uncertainty over when they will return home and limited communication with their families, while continuing to operate in dangerous waters.

Across several key routes, including the Red Sea, the Black Sea and the Strait of Hormuz, crews continue to work in regions shaped by war, regional tension and security uncertainty.

‘Seafarers should never become unintended victims of wider geopolitical conflict,’ Dominguez said.

He added that every ship carries more than cargo.

‘It carries people,’ he said, referring to seafarers with families waiting for them at home, often spending long months at sea in isolation, fatigue and stress, while continuing to deliver the goods, energy and supplies on which the world relies.

The campaign also features Third Officer Clarisse Bangga, who was stranded in Hormuz before safely making it through an exceptionally difficult period at sea.

In a video shared by the IMO, Bangga speaks about navigating uncertainty and risk while continuing to do her job. Her experience gives the campaign a human face, showing how geopolitical disruption is felt not only in freight rates, oil prices and supply chains, but also in the lives of those onboard.

That is the central point of this year’s campaign. While shipping disruption is often discussed in technical or financial terms, the IMO is urging the wider public to recognise the people behind global trade.

The Day of the Seafarer is marked every year on June 25 and is recognised as a United Nations international observance day. It aims to raise awareness of the contribution made by seafarers to international trade, the world economy and society more broadly.

This year, the IMO has invited seafarers to share their own experiences, the realities of life at sea and the moments that define their work, using the hashtag #DayOfTheSeafarer.

At the same time, the campaign sends a clear message to governments, shipowners and the wider maritime industry. Protecting seafarers cannot be treated as a secondary issue. Their safety, welfare and mental health must remain central, particularly when ships are sent through regions affected by instability.

‘To all seafarers, thank you,’ Dominguez said, adding that their safety and welfare remain a priority.

On National Energy Day, Elite Radio and Engineering Co., (Pvt) Ltd., the sole authorised distributor for KDK products in Sri Lanka, is shining a spotlight on a landmark introduction to the market – the KDK DC Ceiling Fan. Launched earlier this year, this four-blade ceiling fan reduces energy consumption by than fifty percent and stands as the first fan in Sri Lanka to receive a five-star energy rating certificate from the Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority.

The KDK DC Ceiling Fan was driven by awareness of Sri Lanka’s energy needs. At speed 5, the fan consumes only 35 watts compared to the 75 watts drawn by a conventional ceiling fan. The company noted that while many brands make energy saving claims only KDK has received the five-star rating from the Sustainable Energy Authority reflecting a commitment to energy conservation at a time when it has become both a national and global priority.

The development of the fan was the result of an extensive consultative process. The research development team from Japan travelled across Sri Lanka. Their findings were informed by consultations with some of the country’s leading voices in hospitality, construction, architecture and property development. The goal was to deliver a product of uncompromised quality at a reasonable price.

The response has been particularly strong from the hospitality and tourism sector, the company stressed. Many in the hospitality industry did not hesitate when the fan was introduced and immediately recognised that it addressed a very real operational need.

The KDK DC Ceiling Fan is as much a design statement as it is an engineering achievement. Available in two finishes (mahogany and ash) it is built to complement contemporary interiors while standing up to the demands of end users. Delivering the same air output as a conventional ceiling fan, operates near-silently and comes equipped with a remote control.

Meanwhile, the company also pointed to a broader issue contributing to energy wastage in the country, which is the common habit of leaving fans and lights running in unoccupied rooms. Collectively, they noted, this places a significant and avoidable burden on the national grid. For Elite Radio, the answer lies not only in public mindfulness but also in making smarter technology more accessible. The KDK DC Ceiling Fan is a solution – a product designed to mitigate energy drainage even when everyday habits fall short.

Underpinning all of this is a legacy that few brands in Sri Lanka can match. KDK was founded in 1909 in Osaka, Japan, and Elite Radio has been its sole authorised distributor in Sri Lanka since 1960, a partnership spanning more than six decades. That history, the company said, speaks for itself. KDK fans are built to last, and the brand’s enduring presence in the Sri Lankan market is a testament to that durability. Today, KDK continues to lead as a premium provider of indoor air quality solutions, delivering Japanese innovation that is increasingly tailored to the needs of the world.

Looking ahead, Elite Radio stated that the KDK DC Ceiling Fan is only the beginning. The company is currently working to expand its energy-efficient product range to include pedestal fans and wall fans as well, which highlights its commitment to delivering tailored, certified, energy-saving solutions to the Sri Lankan market.

Businesses certified under Sri Lanka Customs’ Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) Program are clearing cargo around 22 hours faster than non-certified traders, according to the country’s first fully digital Time Release Study (TRS), with the Finance Ministry saying the findings underscore the benefits of risk-based trade facilitation while highlighting further opportunities to streamline cargo clearance.

The Finance, Planning and Economic Development Ministry said the 2025 study was conducted in accordance with the World Customs Organisation’s methodology, with technical assistance from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) under its Policy-Based Lending program for Sri Lanka.

It described the exercise as the first TRS in Sri Lanka to be carried out entirely using electronic data extracted from the Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA) system, reflecting progress in digitalisation and data-driven performance management at Sri Lanka Customs.

The study analysed more than 9,000 import Customs Declarations (CusDecs), including over 6,700 sea cargo declarations and more than 2,300 air cargo declarations.

According to the Ministry, the findings provide insights into the time taken for cargo release while identifying opportunities to further improve trade facilitation without compromising effective border controls.

It said Sri Lanka Customs has made significant progress in implementing risk-based controls and trade facilitation measures to support the speedy clearance of legitimate trade.

A key finding relates to the performance of the AEO Program, under which businesses that meet Customs’ compliance requirements receive trade facilitation benefits.

The Ministry said AEO-certified traders recorded a median cargo release time of approximately 30 hours, compared with approximately 53 hours for non-AEO traders, translating into an average facilitation gain of about 22 hours per consignment.

It said the findings demonstrate the value of the AEO Program and support ongoing efforts to expand it to a wider segment of the trading community.

The study also found that consignments exempted from physical examination generally achieved faster release times than those selected for inspection, illustrating the effectiveness of Customs’ risk management framework.

At the same time, it identified scope for closer coordination among border regulatory agencies to further streamline risk-based selectivity and improve cargo release times.

According to the Ministry, a substantial share of overall clearance time occurs outside direct Customs processing.

It identified opportunities to improve the timeliness of CusDec submission after cargo arrival, the payment of duties and taxes, the movement of containers to examination yards, and the collection of cargo after Customs has issued the release order.

For sea cargo in particular, the study found considerable time elapses between Customs granting release and cargo exiting the port, highlighting the need for better coordination among logistics stakeholders.

In response to the findings, Sri Lanka Customs has introduced CargoFlow, an in-house digital queue management system developed by its ICT Directorate following the 2025 TRS.

The Ministry said the platform manages container movements to examination yards based on available capacity, provides priority arrangements for refrigerated and perishable cargo, and creates a digital record of container movements.

It added that preparations are already underway for the 2026 TRS, which will broaden stakeholder engagement and deepen performance measurement across the cargo clearance process.

Sri Lanka’s record-breaking javelin thrower, Rumesh Tharanga Pathirage, was honoured by Uswatte Biscuits Pvt Ltd, his official sponsor, at a special felicitation ceremony held on 22 June 2026 at Vinro Reception Hall, Kennanthudawa. Hosted in Rumesh’s hometown, the event brought together family members, relatives, friends, neighbours, and members of the local community who have supported and encouraged him throughout his journey, creating a heartfelt celebration among the people who have stood by him since childhood.

The event celebrated a series of historic performances that have elevated Sri Lanka’s standing in international athletics and brought together sports officials, community leaders, supporters, and well-wishers to recognise Rumesh’s remarkable rise on the global stage.

Pathirage’s breakthrough season has seen him achieve unprecedented success. At the 2026 Rome Diamond League, he recorded a throw of 92.62 metres, setting a new Sri Lankan record while producing the world’s leading javelin throw of the season. The achievement also placed him among the sport’s all-time greats, ranking eighth in history at the time.

His impressive run continued with victory at the prestigious Ostrava Golden Spike athletics meet in the Czech Republic, where he secured first place with a throw of 86.57 metres against a strong international field. He further strengthened his credentials with another winning performance at the Diamond League meet in Doha, Qatar, contributing to his rise to World No. 2 in the global rankings.

These achievements have not only brought immense pride to Sri Lanka but have also demonstrated the country’s ability to produce athletes capable of competing with the very best in the world.

The felicitation ceremony also reflected the commitment of Uswatte Biscuits to recognising and supporting Sri Lankan excellence. Speaking on the occasion, a young entrepreneur and the Managing Director of Uswatte Biscuits Pvt Ltd, Mr. Shankar Perera, congratulated Rumesh on his remarkable achievements and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting individuals who bring honour and recognition to Sri Lanka on the global stage.

Uswatte Biscuits, one of Sri Lanka’s most renowned biscuit manufacturers, has been a trusted household name for over 70 years. Guided by a commitment to quality, innovation, and affordability, the company continues to strengthen its presence both locally and internationally while contributing meaningfully to initiatives that inspire and uplift communities. The partnership with Rumesh Tharanga Pathirage reflects Uswatte Biscuits’ enduring belief in recognising and supporting Sri Lankan talent capable of achieving excellence on the global stage.

In recognition of his historic accomplishments on the international stage, Uswatte Biscuits awarded a cash prize of Rs. 2.5 million to Rumesh Tharanga Pathirage. His coach, Mr. Tony Prasanna, was also honoured with a cash award of Rs. 500,000.

The occasion also marked the beginning of a long-term partnership, with Uswatte Biscuits pledging its continued support towards Rumesh Tharanga Pathirage’s journey to the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. The company reaffirmed its commitment to standing alongside the athlete as he pursues his ultimate goal of winning an Olympic medal for Sri Lanka.

While the ceremony celebrated a historic sporting achievement, it also served as a powerful reminder of what can be accomplished through talent, hard work, and determination. For many in attendance, it was not only a tribute to an athlete at the peak of his career, but also a celebration of a Sri Lankan whose success continues to inspire an entire nation

Top blue chip John Keells Holdings’ (JKH) Chairman Krishan Balendra was yesterday re-elected Chairperson of Sri Lanka’s premier private sector body, The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, at its 187th Annual General Meeting (AGM) for 2026/27.

British High Commissioner Andrew Patrick attended as Chief Guest.

The 2026/27 office-bearers are Chairperson Krishan Balendra (John Keells Holdings Chairperson), Vice Chairperson Bingumal Thewarathanthri (Standard Chartered Bank Sri Lanka CEO), and Deputy Vice Chairperson Vinod Hirdaramani (Hirdaramani Group Chairman).

Board Members include Jayanthi Dharmasena (Hayleys Agriculture Holdings Managing Director), Kasturi Chellaraja Wilson (5-hour International Corporation Singapore COO and Head of APAC), Shibani Thambiayah (Renuka Hotels Managing Director), Supun Weerasinghe (Dialog Axiata Director/Group CEO), and Shiran Fernando (The Ceylon Chamber Secretary-General/CEO).

David Pieris Motor Company Ltd., Group Chairman/Managing Director Rohana Dissanayake will also join the Board, replacing former Nestlé Lanka PLC Managing Director Bernhard Stefan, who relocated overseas.

In his remarks, Balendra, whose father Ken headed the transformation of JKH and chaired The Ceylon Chamber from 1998-2000, noted that over the past year, the Chamber adopted a more solutions-oriented approach to advocacy, focusing not only on identifying challenges but also on developing constructive recommendations in collaboration with the Government, industry stakeholders, and development partners, with this approach yielding stronger results.

‘Through our engagement in the Budget 2026 process, 18 recommendations proposed by the Chamber were incorporated into the national Budget, covering areas such as trade facilitation, investment promotion, digitalisation, infrastructure, and improving the ease of doing business. This builds upon the strong momentum established in previous years and demonstrates the value of evidence-based, constructive engagement,’ he said.

‘The Chamber also contributed to addressing emerging global trade challenges, including tariff-related issues affecting Sri Lankan exports. By representing private sector perspectives in Presidential Committees, we supported efforts to safeguard export competitiveness and strengthen trade resilience,’ Balendra added.

Beyond advocacy, the Chamber significantly expanded its engagement footprint, strengthening bilateral partnerships across more than 20 countries, and supporting more than 1,800 small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through training, advisory services, and market access initiatives.

The Chairperson added that over the next year, The Ceylon Chamber is committed to deepening engagement with members, strengthening global partnerships, enhancing support for SMEs, and accelerating efforts to promote exports and attract investment, and is committed to working with the Government and stakeholders to ensure a resilient and prosperous Sri Lanka.

As the world marks the International Day of the Seafarer 2026, Sri Lanka Shipping Company Limited (SLSC), a subsidiary of the Advantis Group, the transportation and logistics arm of Hayleys PLC, pays tribute to the maritime professionals whose dedication and resilience continue to sustain global trade under increasingly complex operating conditions.

This year’s International Maritime Organisation (IMO) theme, ‘Carrying World Trade. Carrying the Risks,’ recognises the indispensable role seafarers play in maintaining the flow of goods across the world while navigating the challenges and uncertainties that accompany modern maritime operations.

‘The maritime industry continues to operate under increasingly complex global conditions, and seafarers remain central to its resilience and continuity. Their expertise enables the safe and efficient movement of vessels across international routes. As an organisation, our focus is on ensuring they are supported with the right environment, systems, and standards to carry out their responsibilities effectively,’ said Surindha De Abrew, Director/CEO of Sri Lanka Shipping Company Limited.

Today, more than 80% of global trade by volume is transported by sea, making seafarers the backbone of international commerce. Behind every shipment of essential commodities, consumer goods, and industrial cargo are maritime professionals who work tirelessly, often spending extended periods away from their families while operating in demanding environments.

In recent years, the shipping industry has faced evolving challenges, ranging from geopolitical tensions and security concerns to operational disruptions and changing regulatory requirements. Despite these complexities, seafarers have continued to demonstrate exceptional professionalism and commitment, ensuring that global supply chains remain connected and economies continue to function.

For nearly seven decades, SLSC has been an active participant in Sri Lanka’s maritime industry, supporting shipping operations through ship owning and operating, ship management, agency services, customs house agency services, and specialised maritime logistics solutions. Central to the Company’s success has been the expertise and dedication of its seafarers and maritime professionals, both at sea and ashore, who work together to deliver reliable and efficient services across international markets.

Recognising that people remain the foundation of maritime success, SLSC continues to invest in training, competency development, and professional growth. By equipping its team with the skills and resources needed to meet evolving industry requirements, the Company supports the development of a resilient, capable, and future-ready workforce.

This commitment also contributes to strengthening Sri Lanka’s standing within the international maritime community. Through their professionalism, expertise, and dedication, Sri Lankan seafarers continue to showcase the country’s maritime capabilities on the global stage.

As the maritime sector continues to evolve, SLSC remains committed to supporting the men and women who form the backbone of the industry. On this International Day of the Seafarer 2026, the Company honours seafarers around the world whose efforts often go unseen but whose contribution is essential to global trade, economic growth, and the everyday lives of millions of people.

About Sri Lanka Shipping Company Limited

Sri Lanka Shipping Company Limited, established in 1956, is a leading maritime services provider with a strong heritage in shipping, logistics, and offshore support services. The company is a part of the Hayleys Advantis Group-the transportation and logistics arm of Hayleys PLC, one of Sri Lanka’s most diversified and respected conglomerates. Sri Lanka Shipping owns and operates the largest sea-going asset fleet in Sri Lanka, reinforcing its position as a key player in the region. Its comprehensive portfolio of services includes Towage and Salvage, Port Operations, Vessel Chartering, and Technical Management. Committed to safety, reliability, and service excellence, Sri Lanka Shipping continues to play a pivotal role in advancing the country’s maritime and logistics sectors.

Sri Lanka’s traditional handloom sector must be repositioned as an ‘industry of the future’ rather than a declining craft, Deputy Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Chathuranga Abeysinghe said yesterday, highlighting its growing potential to tap into global demand for sustainable, high-value fashion products and generate export earnings.

He made the remarks at ‘The Art of Weaving’ workshop and fashion showcase, jointly organised by the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB), the Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Ministry and the University of Moratuwa, as part of efforts to revitalise Sri Lanka’s handloom industry and transform it into a globally competitive export sector.

The initiative seeks to preserve Sri Lanka’s rich handloom heritage, while creating greater value for locally designed products in international markets through innovation, quality enhancement and stronger youth participation.

Addressing policymakers, industry stakeholders, designers and academics, Abeysinghe said global consumer preferences are increasingly shifting towards sustainable and natural products, creating a significant opportunity for Sri Lankan handloom manufacturers.

‘It is incorrect to regard handloom weaving as a declining industry. It should be recognised as an industry of the future,’ he said.

Unlike the apparel industry, Sri Lanka’s handloom sector possesses distinctive patterns, colours and craftsmanship that are uniquely local and difficult to replicate elsewhere, providing the country with a genuine competitive advantage, he noted.

With international demand rising for premium and sustainable fashion, Abeysinghe said the sector has considerable untapped potential to earn foreign exchange and diversify Sri Lanka’s export basket.

He stressed that the industry must move beyond its traditional focus on sarees and explore emerging segments such as casual fashion, resort wear and athleisure and wellness-oriented apparel to capture faster-growing global market opportunities.

The Deputy Minister also called for increased private sector participation and investment to scale up the industry and commercialise innovative designs.

While commending initiatives already being undertaken by universities and industry stakeholders, he said greater collaboration between designers, entrepreneurs and investors is essential to build sustainable business models capable of taking Sri Lankan handloom products to international markets.

‘We need to combine the creativity of young designers with business know-how to create innovative business models and transform the sector into a large-scale industry,’ he said.

Abeysinghe also disclosed that the Government is restructuring key institutions, including the EDB, the Department of Textiles and State-owned enterprises such as Laksala and Salusala, to provide more effective support to the handloom industry.

The EDB reiterated its commitment to elevating Sri Lanka’s handloom products to international standards through improved quality, innovation and stronger market access, with the ultimate goal of transforming traditional weaving into a sustainable export-driven industry that contributes more significantly to the national economy.

Abeysinghe assured continued Government support for strengthening ties between the University of Moratuwa and the industry, saying such partnerships would be critical in turning Sri Lanka’s handloom heritage into a modern, innovation-led export sector capable of competing globally.

The event brought together policymakers, academics, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, designers, artisans, handloom weavers, students and development partners to explore opportunities for value addition, innovation and export growth across the sector.

Among those present were Additional Secretary – Traditional Industries Subhadra Walpola, EDB Chairman Mangala Wijesinghe, University of Moratuwa Faculty of Engineering Dean Jagath Manatunga and Senior Lecturer Thushari Wanniarachchi, alongside representatives from the public and private sectors and students of the university.

When the world’s leading minds in renewable energy converged on Munich for The Smarter E Europe 2026, Sri Lanka had a seat at the table. Lakmal Fernando, MD/CEO and Champika Periyapperuma CTO, founders of Regen Renewables (Pvt) Ltd., representing Sri Lanka’s growing clean energy sector, attended the landmark trade fair as guests of Suntech, one of the industry’s most respected technology brands.

The Smarter E Europe, held annually in Munich, is widely regarded as the continent’s most significant platform for the renewable energy industry. This year’s edition drew thousands of exhibitors and visitors from across the globe, showcasing breakthroughs in solar power, intelligent panels, energy storage, grid technology, and sustainable mobility.

The smarter E Europe 2026, held from June 23 25, 2026, at Messe Mnchen, featured four major exhibitions and extensive conference programs.

‘It was much more than just new products. It was about how we can make the future energy supply more efficient, smarter, and more sustainable – and that is exactly why we were there.’ – Lakmal Fernando, MD/CEO of Regen Renewables.

At the heart of the experience was Suntech’s exhibition booth, celebrating 25 years in the industry, with Regen Renewables (Pvt) Ltd. as a proud partner for 14 years. The company has put on display the very best in high-performance technology, innovative energy solutions, and forward-looking answers to the challenges of the global energy transition. The booth offered Fernando and Periyapperuma a rare, hands-on window into technologies that are already reshaping electricity grids across Europe and beyond.

Agri-PV and the Virtual Central Inverter: A Game-Changer for Sri Lanka

Among the standout sessions at the fair was an expert presentation on the Virtual Central Inverter – a breakthrough concept that is transforming the economics and efficiency of large-scale photovoltaic (PV) installations.

The presentation demonstrated how virtual central inverters bring new levels of flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and operational efficiency to agri-PV projects, which combine agricultural land use with solar energy generation.

For Sri Lanka, where agricultural land is precious and energy demand is surging, the agri-PV model presents a compelling opportunity. The ability to generate clean electricity without displacing farming activity could offer a practical pathway toward rural energy independence while safeguarding food production – a dual benefit that aligns squarely with Sri Lanka’s national development priorities.

Smart Storage and Grid-Forming Technology: Building Resilience

Beyond agri-PV, the Sri Lankan delegation gained firsthand exposure to smart energy storage systems and grid-forming inverter technology – two pillars of the modern energy grid that are increasingly critical as nations move away from fossil fuels. Grid-forming inverters, in particular, represent a quantum leap in how renewable energy sources can stabilise power networks, a capability with direct relevance to Sri Lanka’s ongoing efforts to integrate higher volumes of solar and wind generation into its national grid.

A Milestone for Sri Lanka’s Energy Future

The participation of Fernando and Periyapperuma at The Smarter E Europe 2026 marks a significant milestone in Sri Lanka’s engagement with the global clean energy community. By strengthening the direct connections with industry leaders such as Suntec, Sunways, DasSolar, KACO New Energy and Siemens, the Sri Lankan energy sector is now better positioned than ever to adopt world-class solutions tailored to the country’s unique geography, climate, and energy needs.

As Sri Lanka charts its course toward a cleaner, more resilient energy future, missions such as this one demonstrate that the island nation is not merely watching the global energy transition unfold – it is actively participating in shaping it.