The Centrepoint of the meeting was an engaging and informative presentation delivered by Ms. Priyanka Samaraweera, Executive Director – Investment Promotion & Research at the Board of Investment (BOI) of Sri Lanka.
Ms. Samaraweera shed light on the strategic role of the BOI in driving foreign direct investment and promoting sustainable economic growth in Sri Lanka. She outlined the BOI’s current impact, noting that it works with over 1,900 companies whose operations contribute to more than USD 8 billion in annual exports, representing approximately 73% of the country’s total industrial exports.
The BOI offers a range of fiscal and non-fiscal incentives tailored to the scale and sector of the investment. These include the exemptions on Customs Duties, VAT, and CESS, the duty-free import allowances for certain goods and raw materials, long-term residence visas for foreign investors and key personnel, reduced corporate income tax rates for export services, as well as enhanced capital allowances.
In addition, the BOI is actively expanding zonal infrastructure to facilitate investment-ready locations across the country and offers end-to-end facilitation services to ensure ease of doing business for investors.
Following the presentation, committee members engaged in a dynamic Q&A session, raising questions, and exchanging insights with the BOI representative. The discussion provided a valuable platform for international businesses to share practical perspectives and ensure long-term partnerships in Sri Lanka’s evolving investment landscape.
AHK Sri Lanka extends its sincere appreciation to Ms. Priyanka Samaraweera for her invaluable insights and to all participants for their active engagement and constructive contributions.
AHK Sri Lanka is part of the global German Chamber Network, supported by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK). With over 150 locations in 93 countries, the AHKs support German and local companies with their international business development, offering expertise, connections, and tailored services. As an essential partner of the Chambers of Commerce and Industry (IHKs) in Germany, AHKs operate in countries of strategic importance to German enterprises worldwide.