The meeting featured valuable contributions from Ms. Manorie Mallikaratchy, Director General of the Economic Affairs (Bilateral) Division at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism; Mr. Mangala Wijesinghe, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Sri Lanka Export Development Board; and Mr. H. J. K. U. Kumara, Director Marketing & Business Development at the Sri Lanka Ports Authority.
A key focus of the meeting was Sri Lanka’s strategic position along major international shipping routes and its ambition to develop from a transshipment hub into a broader regional logistics hub. Participants discussed ongoing and planned developments at the ports of Colombo, Hambantota, Galle and Trincomalee.
The session also addressed key challenges affecting logistics, exports and imports, including high logistics costs, congestion, limited hinterland connectivity and regulatory and digital inefficiencies. Participants emphasized the importance of value-added logistics, multimodal transport, digital trade facilitation, and institutional reforms.
During the open discussion, committee members exchanged perspectives on attracting foreign investment, diversifying exports, and increasing private-sector participation in Sri Lanka’s logistics development. Opportunities for German-Sri Lankan cooperation were identified in port technology, logistics automation, digital systems, sustainable transport, green infrastructure and supply-chain development.
The Sri Lanka Export Development Board also provided information on Sri Lanka Expo 2027, scheduled to take place from 14–17 January 2027. The event will include structured B2B matchmaking and an investor forum, providing opportunities for international buyers, investors and Sri Lankan exporters.
We sincerely thank all speakers and participants for their valuable contributions and continued engagement in strengthening Sri Lanka’s logistics, maritime, export and import sectors.
AHK Sri Lanka is part of the global German Chamber Network, supported by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWE). With over 150 locations in 93 countries, the AHKs support German and local companies with their international business development by offering expertise, connections and tailored services. As essential partners of the Chambers of Commerce and Industry (IHKs) in Germany, AHKs operate in countries of strategic importance to German enterprises worldwide.
