With the purpose of fostering cooperation, networking, and exchange among global market leaders and industry peers from Germany and Sri Lanka, the Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Sri Lanka (AHK Sri Lanka) successfully hosted the 9th edition of the 'Top German Brands in Sri Lanka' event on Wednesday, September 20, 2023, at the Cinnamon Grand Colombo.
This flagship event was supported by the German Embassy in Colombo and sponsored by Lufthansa. The gathering was graced by distinguished luminaries, including Mr. Olaf Malchow - Deputy Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany in Colombo, Mr. Lars Bredal - Deputy Ambassador of the European Union Delegation to Sri Lanka & Maldives, Dr. Kingsley Bernard - Chairman of the Export Development Board, and Ms. Renuka Weerakoon - Director General of the Board of Investment.
With over 300 German brands showcased, the evening also highlighted the enduring 70-year diplomatic relations between Germany and Sri Lanka. The event, which attracted over 200 participants, served as a vibrant platform for the exchange of ideas, the forging of new connections, and the strengthening of existing collaborations.
A momentous highlight of the evening was the celebration of more than two and a half decades of success by three German businesses in Sri Lanka: Würth Sri Lanka, BASF, and Aqua Dynamics. Their remarkable commitment to Sri Lanka was celebrated as a testament to their dedication and resilience.
Mr. Olaf Malchow, Deputy Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany in Colombo, graced the event as the chief guest. He remarked, "I am delighted that this year, Top German Brands has gathered such a high number of representatives of German brands. Let me express my sincere gratitude for your continued engagement for expanding and deepening the trade and business relations between Sri Lanka and Germany."
At the same time, he encouraged the representatives to champion transparent and accountable governance in Sri Lanka, which was the bedrock of successful economic reforms. As business leaders, they would have to play an active role in unlocking Sri Lanka’s untapped potential and shaping its future economic landscape.
Ms. Marie Antonia Von Schönburg, Chief Delegate of AHK Sri Lanka, warmly congratulated all German brands for their outstanding success in Sri Lanka. In her address, she shared a noteworthy statistic, stating, "Since last year's 'Top German Brands in Sri Lanka,' we have witnessed remarkable growth, with the number of German brands in Sri Lanka surging by over 10%, from 277 to a commendable 307. This substantial expansion reflects the enduring trust and confidence that German businesses have in Sri Lanka's potential."
Furthermore, Ms. Von Schönburg reaffirmed AHK Sri Lanka's unwavering commitment to assisting German companies in Sri Lanka and fostering a conducive environment that nurtures their growth and prosperity, reinforcing the vital role they play in the nation's economic development.
AHK Sri Lanka is part of the German Chamber Network supported by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK). With over 150 locations in 93 countries around the world, the members of the German Chamber Network (AHKs) offer their experience, connections and services to German and companies of the respective partner countries. AHKs are located in all countries of particular importance to German companies and are closely connected to the Chambers of Industry and Commerce (IHKs) in Germany.
The pictures from thhis event can be viewed through this link https://ibb.co/album/g6gM05