The event opened with a presentation by Mr. Martin Klose, Chief Delegate of AHK Sri Lanka, who shared the latest results of the DIHK World Business Outlook survey. The survey, conducted among German companies abroad, reflected a more cautious global business environment. Against the backdrop of geopolitical tensions, including the war in Iran, higher energy prices, and disruptions to international freight routes, overall business expectations among German companies have declined. Sri Lanka also recorded a notable shift in business climate, following the very positive expectations observed last year. Similar challenges were highlighted in the EU-27 states, where companies continue to face weak business expectations amid high energy costs and regulatory burdens.
The following expert session, led by Mr. Anish Chandran, Head of Financial Lines, Southeast Asia, Allianz Commercial Singapore, and Mr. Sang Young Choo, Cyber Underwriter, Southeast Asia & Korea, Allianz Commercial Singapore, focused on the increasing relevance of cyber risk for businesses in Sri Lanka and globally.
Drawing on Allianz’s high-level expertise, the speakers underlined that cyber security has become one of the most pressing business risks worldwide. Companies today operate in a complex environment shaped by multiple data protection regulations, cross-border cyber threats, and growing dependence on digital infrastructure. A particular point of concern is the concentration of cloud services, as many businesses rely on a limited number of major cloud providers.
A central message of the session was the importance of having a consistent and tested cyber response plan. Such a plan enables companies to react quickly, professionally, and effectively in the event of a cyber incident, helping to reduce operational disruption and reputational damage.
The interactive discussion that followed explored practical questions around AI regulation and the integration of cyber response plans into daily business operations. Participants had the opportunity to engage directly with the experts and gain valuable guidance on strengthening organizational resilience.
AHK Sri Lanka sincerely thanks Allianz for its valued partnership and for sharing comprehensive expertise on this increasingly critical topic.
