Gabriel’s Charity Auction in aid of Rescue Animals Sri Lanka

Gabriel’s Charity Auction in aid of Rescue Animals Sri Lanka (RAS) will take place on 31 October at the Mahogany, Cinnamon Grand, commencing 7.30 p.m.

Presented by the Cinnamon Grand, Hi Magazine, Wijeya Newspapers and Aditi, the evening is guaranteed to have something for everyone. A silent auction featuring an array of valuable items, a fashion show with Sri Lanka’s finest designers namely, Aditi, Brian Kerkoven, Charini, Dhammika Amarasekara, Jai by Aashkii, LIMAK by KAMIL and RADISI, while cocktails, a four course sit down dinner, and entertainment by En Route, all combine to ensure that Friday 31 October, will indeed be a night to remember .

The Auction will comprise of a variety of eclectic items including paintings, pottery, designer clothing, jewellery, etc. with the proceeds from their sale going towards funding the RAS shelter, as well as their manifold activities.

RAS was incorporated as a formal trust by D L and F de Sarams over 25 years ago by Anusha David, who commenced her animal welfare activities at the age of eight when she picked up two flea ridden pups on her way to school and hid them in her class handwork cupboard. Since then Anusha’s care for the voiceless encompasses all creatures great and small and her advocacy extends to farm animals, elephants, monkeys, birds and reptiles. The RAS shelter presently houses 92 dogs and 18 cats with three staff on site to care for the animals.

Lanka IOC, which has partnered with RAS as part of their CSR program, give a strong signal to other corporates to follow their lead, while Aditi emphasised the fact that animal welfare and preserving the environment are the cornerstones of CSR.

Hospitality Partner Cinnamon Grand, has walked their talk with the opening of a Cattery, while Print Media partner Wijeya Newspapers Ltd., Advertising Partner Gravitas, Social Media Partner Zelus, Brian Kerkoven, Chagall Salon, and En Route, have all extended their support to RAS to ensure the event’s success.

Aditi Managing Director Mahika Weerakoon, who was the first Corporate to partner with RAS, said,

‘At Aditi, our philosophy has always been about care for people, for communities, and for the world we live in. Supporting Rescue Animals Sri Lanka is a natural extension of our values. Just as we empower women through fashion, we believe compassion towards animals and protecting the environment are essential to building a truly elegant society.’

Lanka IOC Managing Director Dipak Das said they were pleased to partner with Rescue Animals Sri Lanka as part of their CSR initiative and expressed the hope that other Sri Lankan Corporates would include Animal Welfare into their corporate ethos.’

‘The Cinnamon Grand Colombo is delighted to be a part of yet another initiative spearheaded by Anusha David of Rescue Animals Sri Lanka. We have had a long association with Anusha and look forward to partnering with her on future endeavours too,’ said General Manager Nazoomi Azhar.

EDB targets Nov. completion of National Export Development Plan

The Export Development Board (EDB) yesterday said that it was moving to finalising the National Export Development Plan (NEDP) 2025-2029 by November, with the aim of sharpening trade competitiveness, building stronger regional and global linkages, and positioning exports as a driver of sustainable growth even as US President Donald Trump is upending the world trade order.

The EDB, working with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), has begun a series of nationwide consultations to shape the plan.

Eight focus group discussions and a technical committee meeting are scheduled for 2-10 October, covering areas from trade logistics to sectoral priorities. Regional and validation workshops are to follow, before the final framework is submitted later this year.

The urgency is palpable. A recent ADB report has said the impact of US tariffs will impact Sri Lanka’s growth, forecast to slowdown from 5% in 2024 to 3.9% this year and 3.3% in 2026. With Macro-Bonds likely to result additional debt payments up to $ 250 million annually, driving export growth is critical.

According to the Institute of Policy Studies in 2023, Sri Lanka’s goods and services exports made up nearly 20.4% of GDP, with manufacturing exports contributing 14%. However, the country’s merchandise export mix remains highly concentrated, with 77% of export income coming from industrial goods, mainly apparel, and just 22% from agricultural exports.

‘This lack of sufficient diversification leaves Sri Lanka’s export economy vulnerable, heavily dependent on the apparel sector and traditional sectors like tea and rubber,’ the IPS said.

According to the Advocata Institute, Sri Lanka’s lack of trade competitiveness is the result of policies and structural inefficiencies that have rendered the country uncompetitive. It noted that this fundamental issue was often misdiagnosed as a lack of targeting, leading to constant shifts in focus towards different sectors or products every three years without addressing the root causes of poor competitiveness.

According to the EDB, the new National Export Development Plan 2025-2029 builds on lessons from the National Export Strategy of 2018-2022, while addressing shifting global trade conditions and the country’s own post-crisis priorities.

‘This initiative is central to positioning Sri Lanka as a competitive player in international markets,’ Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Deputy Minister Chathuranga Abeysinghe said at the inaugural session in Colombo yesterday.

EDB Chairman Mangala Wijesinghe told stakeholders that aligning national export priorities with industry realities and global market opportunities was critical to the plan’s success. ADB’s Country Director in Sri Lanka Takafumi Kadono, stressed the importance of collaborative engagement to ensure the framework is both inclusive and actionable.

The Government has identified the NEDP as a key priority in the 2025 Budget, mandating the EDB to lead the process under the Policy-Based Lending program of the Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Ministry. Industry Secretary Thilaka Jayasundara said the consultations would help identify priority sectors, strengthen trade linkages, and address bottlenecks in the trade ecosystem.

‘Once completed, the five-year plan will provide the roadmap for Sri Lanka’s export growth strategy, setting policy direction and implementation pathways at a time when the country is seeking to anchor its economic recovery on trade-led expansion,’ the EDB said in a statement yesterday.

Dominant Bangladesh thump Pakistan by seven wickets

Bangladesh got their ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup rolling as they thumped Pakistan by seven wickets at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium yesterday, in the first match of the Colombo leg.

It was absolute domination from Bangladesh. The only thing that did not go their way was the toss. Pakistan, who won the toss and chose to bat first, were pushed onto the backfoot straight away thanks to a brilliant opening spell with the new ball by Marufa Akter, who set the tone early with a couple of wickets as the ball swung in the powerplay. Omaima Sohail and Sidra Amin departed without troubling the scorers, as Pakistan were in early trouble. Following that, Pakistan batters chipped in with a few handy contributions, but once the partnership of 42 between Muneeba Ali and Rameen Shamim was broken, Bangladesh bowlers kept taking wickets at regular intervals.

After Marufa’s spell, the Bangladesh spinners took over and had Pakistan in a stranglehold. They ensured the scoreboard got nowhere; while, at the same time, chipped away at the wickets as Pakistan were skittled out for 129. Shorna Akter finished off the tail by picking three wickets, but nothing to take away from Nahida Akter and others, who choked Pakistan in the middle overs. Marufa was the only pace bowler Bangladesh used yesterday, and the five spinners took the rest of the eight wickets between them.

Bangladesh’s start to the chase wasn’t great, but the arrival of Captain Nigar Sultana got the runs flowing. In her presence, debutant Rubya Haider also gained confidence and showed her range of shots as she marked her debut with a lovely half-century (54* off 77 balls, 8 fours), sharing a 62-run stand off 77 balls. With Sobhana Mostary contributing an attractive 24* off 19 balls, Bangladesh got home at a canter in the end. Overall, it was a clinical performance by Bangladesh to outplay Pakistan.

Scores:

Pakistan 129 (38.3) (Rameen Shamim 23, Fatima Sana 22, Marufa Akter 2/31, Nahida Akter 2/19, Shorna Akter 3/5)

Bangladesh 131-3 (31.1) (Rubya Haider 54*, Nigar Sultana 23, Sobhana Mostary 24*)

Sri Lanka strengthens trade, investment, and tourism ties at World Expo 2025 in Osaka

Sri Lanka showcased its export potential, investment opportunities, and tourism offerings at the Sri Lanka Business Forum and Networking Session held on 26 September during the World Expo 2025 in Osaka.

Organised by the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) in collaboration with the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Japan, and supported by the Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO) and the Sri Lanka Business Council of Japan (SLBCJ), the landmark event brought together around 20 leading Sri Lankan exporters from key sectors including apparel, tea, spices, gems and jewellery, food and beverages, handicrafts, and IT services. The Forum served as a dynamic platform to promote Sri Lanka’s authentic, high-quality, and globally trusted products to Japanese investors, importers, and industry leaders.

Distinguished participation

Opening the session, EDB Chairman/CEO Mangala Wijesinghe described the event as a milestone in strengthening the longstanding partnership between Sri Lanka and Japan.

‘This forum demonstrates Sri Lanka’s commitment to building stronger economic bridges with Japan,’ he said. ‘As Sri Lanka repositions itself as a regional trade hub, we are here to offer Japanese partners not only world-class products but also a stable and enabling business environment for investment.’ He also highlighted Sri Lanka’s skilled workforce, improving logistics infrastructure, and its strategic location on major shipping lanes connecting East and West.

Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Japan Prof. Janak Kumarasinghe underscored the depth of bilateral ties, cultural exchanges, and long-standing trade cooperation between the two nations.

JETRO Osaka Director General Hideki Sho emphasised Japan’s keen interest in expanding trade with Sri Lanka at Expo 2025 Osaka-Kansai, noting Sri Lanka’s steady economic recovery with eight consecutive quarters of growth and rising exports and tourism. He highlighted Sri Lanka’s strong reputation in Japan for high-quality Ceylon Tea, the growing potential of graphite exports for lithium-ion batteries, and the promising IT services sector. He urged participants to seize the forum’s opportunities to deepen Japan-Sri Lanka economic ties.

Delivering the keynote address, Chathuranga Abeysinghe highlighted Sri Lanka’s investor-friendly policies, strategic role as a South Asian gateway, and its export strengths spanning apparel, agriculture, gems, ICT, wellness, and creative industries. He described Expo 2025 as a platform to transform long-standing friendship and development cooperation into stronger business partnerships in trade, investment, tourism, and technology. He also emphasised Sri Lanka’s post-bankruptcy recovery, ongoing reforms, and commitment to sustainability and entrepreneurship, inviting Japanese businesses to explore opportunities in manufacturing, innovation, and SME collaboration.

Showcasing opportunities

During the country presentations, the EDB highlighted Sri Lanka’s export potential in emerging sectors such as wellness products, ICT, and sustainable agriculture. The Board of Investment outlined the latest policy measures, fiscal incentives, and industrial zones available for foreign investors, while the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau showcased the island’s diverse tourism attractions-from UNESCO heritage sites and wellness retreats to adventure tourism and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) opportunities.

These presentations were followed by a high-energy Business Networking Session, enabling Sri Lankan and Japanese businesses to explore collaboration opportunities, partnerships, and potential joint ventures. A networking lunch provided a relaxed environment for meaningful exchanges and relationship-building among participants.

Strengthening bilateral ties

The Sri Lanka Business Forum at World Expo 2025 reflects the country’s proactive approach to global trade promotion and its commitment to fostering long-term partnerships with international markets. For Japanese businesses and investors, the Forum offered a valuable opportunity to discover Sri Lanka’s diverse range of offerings-from traditional artisanal crafts to modern technological solutions.

In line with Expo 2025’s theme, ‘Designing Future Society for Our Lives’ the event demonstrated how Sri Lankan enterprises contribute to a sustainable, innovative, and globally connected future. By leveraging the Expo’s international platform, Sri Lanka not only promoted its export industries but also enhanced its reputation as a trusted partner in the global marketplace.

Ongoing presence at Sri Lanka Pavilion

Beyond the Business Forum, visitors to Expo 2025 are invited to explore the Sri Lanka Product Display at the Sri Lanka Pavilion in Commons A, open from 22 September to 5 October 2025. The display features a wide array of products and services reflecting Sri Lanka’s innovation, tradition, and quality-from premium teas and ethical apparel to cutting-edge IT solutions-further boosting the country’s visibility in Japanese and global markets.

EDB is the apex Government body promoting and developing exports. By spearheading initiatives such as the Sri Lanka Business Forum and the Sri Lanka Product display at Expo 2025, the EDB continues to strengthen the nation’s export competitiveness and international market presence.

Sri Lankan swimmers compete well at Junior World Championships in Romania

The Sri Lankan national swimming team delivered strong performances at the Junior World Swimming Championships held in Otopeni, Romania, during the end of summer, with several athletes achieving personal best times and showing steady progress on the international stage.

During the competition, the Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Romania Madurika Joseph Weninger met with the athletes and team officials, extending warm congratulations and offering words of encouragement. The Ambassador commended the swimmers for their dedication, discipline, and the positive manner in which they represented Sri Lanka.

Standout performances came from Julie Hope, Christina Perumal, M.F. Muhammad, Aasif Imran, and the men’s 4x100m freestyle relay team, all of whom recorded personal bests in their respective events. These results reflect encouraging development and growing competitiveness among South Asian nations.

The team was led by Dr. Ghefair Dulapandan, who expressed pride in the swimmers’ commitment and growth stating: ‘This group of young athletes continues to set new benchmarks for Sri Lankan swimming. Their dedication, both in and out of the pool, is truly commendable.’

The Ambassador Madurika Weninger conveyed best wishes to the team for their future competitions and encouraged the athletes to continue pursuing excellence and representing Sri Lanka with pride.

CARIBBEAN-CSME-Regional private sector groups welcomes new initiative regarding free movement

The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Private Sector Organization (CPSO) says it enthusiastically support the decision of Dominica, Barbados, Belize, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, to allow their nationals to enjoy free movement as of October 1.

‘The regional private sector has long advocated for the removal of barriers to the free movement of people within our region. This move by Barbados, Belize, Dominica, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines demonstrates the kind of action-oriented leadership needed to make regional integration a lived reality for businesses, workers, and families,’ said CPSO chief executive officer, Dr. Patrick Antoine.

‘As long as a regional vision and planning is put in place, there will be greater job opportunities from the CSME (Caribbean Single Market and Economy), as investment increases to take advantage of resources available all across the region,’ he added.

The four CARICOM countries decided to forge ahead with full-fledged free movement under the CSME that allows for the free movement of goods, skills, labour and services, while other members of the 15-member integration movement work through their reservations.

The free movement means that as of October 1, except where prohibited on the grounds prescribed by law, such as national security concerns, citizens of the four countries can travel to and work in each other’s countries for an unlimited period of time and can work on arrival, without needing a work permit.

They would also not need a CARICOM Skills Certificate, which previously defined the categories of workers who could move among the bloc and live and work indefinitely Free movement.

The CPSO said that by allowing goods, services, capital, and skilled labour to circulate freely, the CARICOM region aims to create a more dynamic and resilient economic space. It said it regards this move as a signal of a deeper commitment to a unified economic environment, where firms can scale operations, invest, and innovate more effectively across member states.

The CPSO said that stakeholders agree that the potential for labour mobility to enhance economic opportunity is significant. It opens pathways for skilled professionals to seek employment in areas of greater need, thereby boosting productivity and fostering economic diversification.

Additionally, a larger, more integrated market encourages investment and innovation, which are vital for sustaining long-term growth.

The CPSO said that while the prospects are promising, the transition to full free movement also presents certain social and economic challenges.

It said a 2007 pilot study assessing the impact of labour mobility within the sub-group of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), where aspects of cross-country movement have been in operation for over a decade, revealed that while 60 per cent of people questioned at the time were open to temporary relocation for work, only 17 per cent were willing to move permanently.

‘As free movement for all CARICOM territories continues to be a gradual process, there were salient concerns unearthed by the study, which could take time to dissolve. For instance, there was uncertainty about the region having to contend with potential negative impacts, such as increased crime rates and fraudulent activities, on a long-term basis, with the only solution seeming to lie in ironing out hiccups along the way.’

The CPSO said that economic threats identified by the study included downward pressure on wages, job displacement, and the risk of capital flight as profits and remittances are sent abroad.

It said many people in the region also reported fears that unskilled workers might accept low-paying jobs, leading to the development of slums and a reduction in living standards in their home country.

‘Another notable concern that people expressed was the possibility of an influx of foreigners competing for land. Namely, that this would drive property prices upward, making land less affordable for locals, while some countries risk experiencing a ‘brain drain’ if skilled professionals seek opportunities elsewhere.

‘The potential for businesses to relocate within the region to capitalise on lower costs was also noted as a risk, which could inadvertently lead to unemployment in the originating country.’

Despite this, the CPSO said that the published study indicated that Caribbean residents recognized that increased competition for jobs might initially cause issues, but also viewed it as a catalyst for improved efficiency and higher standards.

Generally speaking, they expressed optimism about the trajectory of free movement and greater economic unity. Consensus remains that with effective regional planning and strategic investment, these issues can be managed, resulting in expanded job opportunities and economic resilience.

According to the CPSO, while the benefits, such as increased economic activity, enhanced competitiveness, and greater opportunities for workers, are substantial, policymakers must also tackle the accompanying social and economic risks.

Samara Perera joins The Kingsbury, Horana Plantations Boards

Samara Perera has joined the Boards of The Kingsbury PLC and Horana Plantations PLC as Non-Executive Director.

Perera has been actively involved in business projects and initiatives at both Hayleys PLC and Vallibel One PLC where she gained valuable experience, the companies said.

She is pursuing a Bachelor of Business Degree and is passionate about leadership, entrepreneurship and innovation.

BAHAMAS-AID-Bahamas to strengthen disaster-risk management with IDB support

The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) has approved a US$160 million loan to support The Bahamas in enhancing its disaster-risk management.

The Washington-based financial institution said that the funding is the second loan in a series of two with the first, approved in 2023, which focused on establishing the legal structure for disaster-risk management.

It led to the passage of the Disaster Risk Management Act.

The second loan will allow The Bahamas to design and adopt the core policy instruments created by that law, such as national standards for humanitarian assistance, a comprehensive financial strategy for disaster management, and reference parameters for disaster management.

It will also enable the Bahamian authorities to better identify and reduce risks and improve disaster preparedness and recovery planning.

Under the programme, the Bahamian authorities plan to create an information system based on past disasters and projected scenarios to improve risk informed decision making and preparedness.

Additionally, the programme will train public officials in risk assessment to ensure that disaster resilience is progressively integrated into new public infrastructure.

The Bahamas is among the countries in the region most exposed to natural disasters. In the last 25 years, it has experienced 15 major events, mostly hurricanes.

The IDB said that the programme will benefit the approximately 390,000 residents across all the islands of The Bahamas, which are exposed to the effects of tropical storms and hurricanes.

The IDB loan has a 20-year repayment term, a 5.5-year grace period, and an interest rate based on the secured overnight financing rate (SOFR).

Alston Koch appointed as Commonwealth Union Envoy to Australia and Pacific Region

The Commonwealth Union (CU) has announced the appointment of Alston Koch, internationally recognised artist, award-winning entertainer and global influencer, as its Envoy to Australia and the Pacific Region.

Koch will represent the Commonwealth Union and promote its objectives in line with the People’s Charter of the Commonwealth. His work will focus on strengthening regional collaboration, advancing the Commonwealth Union’s mission of inclusivity and sustainability and fostering greater engagement with communities across Australia and the Pacific.

Alongside his envoy responsibilities, Koch will also serve as a Consultant to the Commonwealth Union, providing advisory services and acting as a marketing consultant. He will support the Commonwealth Union’s Digital Platform by facilitating key introductions, attracting advertising partnerships and engaging in approved business negotiations that enhance the Union’s outreach and global presence.

In addition to his celebrated career in music and entertainment, Koch has been widely recognised for his humanitarian and advocacy work. As an Ambassador for Climate Change (I.C.T.P.), he has championed awareness on environmental challenges and the importance of sustainable solutions. His contributions to community upliftment have earned him certificates of recognition from the California State Senate and the United States Congress, underscoring his impact on improving lives in America. Among his other honours, he was recognised as the ‘Sri Lankan of the Year’ 2018. He also introduced the first cable TV network for the region. He also serves as an Ambassador for Sri Lanka Tourism, Family Film Awards (USA), and The Arts for Peace Foundation (USA), reflecting his deep commitment to cultural diplomacy, peace, and social good.

Recently, he was commended by the current Speaker of the House of Representatives of the Federal Government of Australia for his contribution to charities and sporting institutions in Australia.

Recognised for his decades-long international career, with acclaim across Asia, Australia, and beyond, Koch brings a unique blend of cultural influence and public engagement to this prestigious appointment. His influential platform and global reputation will contribute and add significantly in advancing the Commonwealth Union’s objectives across Australia and the Pacific.

The President of The General Assembly for the United Nations and the presiding head for all international matters of the UN, Abdullah Shahid congratulated and welcomed Alston Koch on his special appointment as ‘Envoy for the Commonwealth Union at the presentation made to Koch at the Commonwealth Union offices.

Commonwealth Union President, Nirj Deva said: ‘Alston Koch’s appointment reflects our commitment to engaging visionary leaders who can connect with people, inspire collaboration, and strengthen the Commonwealth Union’s presence globally. His role as Envoy will be vital in extending our outreach in Australia and the Pacific Region.’

Alston Koch stated, ‘It is an honour to be appointed as Envoy for the Commonwealth Union. I look forward to promoting the values and objectives of the Commonwealth Union across Australia and the Pacific, and to contributing to initiatives that create meaningful impact for our communities.’

This appointment underscores the Commonwealth Union’s dedication to building strong partnerships while amplifying the voice of the Commonwealth and its people on the international stage.

JAMAICA-COURT-British national remanded into custody on drug charges

A 24-year-old British man will return to court on October 16, after appearing in court charged with possession of cocaine, dealing in cocaine, attempting to export cocaine, and conspiracy to export cocaine.

The court heard that Isun Shaka Haywood, a delivery driver of a London address, was held at the Norman Manley airport in Kingston on August 4, after the alleged drugs were found in his suitcase.

He was denied bail when he appeared in the Kingston and St Andrew Parish Court.

The prosecution alleges that Haywood arrived at the Norman Manley International to board an outgoing flight to Toronto, Canada. But he was interviewed by the police and his suitcase was subsequently searched.

The state alleges that several rectangular packages containing a white powdery substance resembling cocaine were found and that the British nationals was arrested on suspicion of breaches of the Dangerous Drug Act.

The parcels, which weighed 10 pounds 6.21 ounces, were seized and taken to the government’s forensic lab for analysis. Tests reveal that the substance was cocaine