Gallery
89th Annual General Meeting of the Import Section of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce
Mr. Thulitha Mendis – Director- Commercial, Singer Sri Lanka PLC, was elected as the Chairman, while Mr. Ushan de Silva – Head of Shipping (Imports and Exports), Unilever Sri Lanka Ltd. and Mr. Sankha Gammanpila – Head-Demand Planning & Imports, Hemas Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, were appointed as Vice Chairman and Deputy Vice Chairman respectively.
The Chairman, Mr. Thulitha Mendis, emphasised the Import Section’s role in advocating for the needs and interests of the import sector. Collaboration with policymakers and industry stakeholders has been instrumental in promoting recovery, sustainability, and growth within the sector. The past year has seen productive exchanges with authorities, leading to significant policy adjustments that have benefited importers. Despite progress, challenges remain. Importers face delays due to customs backlogs and inefficiencies in port operations, causing significant disruptions. The scarcity of containers and high tariffs, along with the imposition of VAT on previously exempted products, have burdened consumers and fostered a grey market. Nevertheless, improvements in the economic environment, such as a stable exchange rate and lower interest rates, have provided some relief.
The Chairman underscored the importance of continued dialogue with authorities, particularly in light of new trade agreements. The Import Section has actively engaged with border agencies to educate its Members and ensure compliance with international standards. Efforts have also been made to implement the National Quality Council & Secretariat, aligned with the National Quality Infrastructure & National Quality Policy, to uphold trade standards. In addressing operational challenges, the Import Section has liaised with the Finance Ministry and customs officials to mitigate disruptions. The Chairman also noted the impact of the ongoing crisis in the Red Sea region, which has escalated freight costs and affected business operations.
The Chairman concluded by reaffirming the commitment to addressing challenges and seizing opportunities for the continued growth and success of the Import Section and the overall economic development of Sri Lanka
Awareness Session on the New SLSI Gazette
The Import Section of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce successfully conducted an awareness session on the recently published SLSI gazette, which is set to take effect on the 15th of November, 2024.
Held on the 29th of October at the Chamber’s Boardroom, the session featured Ms. Deepani De Silva, Acting Director and Ms. Ayesha Salwathura, Senior Deputy Director of Quality Assurance Division, Sri Lanka Standards Institution as resource persons.
The session provided valuable insights into:
• A comprehensive briefing on the new SLSI regulations.
• Key changes introduced in the new regulations compared to previous ones.
• Information on available testing facilities and associated lead times.
• Guidelines on obtaining exemptions from import inspections through required certifications or conformity certificates from suppliers.
• Discussion of other critical updates and considerations for importers.
The interactive session enabled participants to gain a deeper understanding of the implications of the new regulations and address their queries directly with the experts.
Panel Discussion - Navigating Trade Waves in 2024 and Beyond- Insights for Importers
On March 26, 2024, the Import Section organized a Panel Discussion focusing on navigating trade challenges and opportunities in the current landscape and beyond. The discussion aimed to empower importers in Sri Lanka with strategic insights. The panel covered a diverse range of topics:
• Empowering Importers to Leverage Existing Free Trade Agreements (FTAs): Strategies for effectively utilizing FTAs to enhance import activities.
• Government Policy Perspectives on Trade Facilitation: Insights into government policies aimed at facilitating trade and improving import processes.
• Customs Facilities to Streamline Import Processes: Discussions on advancements and initiatives within customs to streamline import procedures.
• Implications of the Red Sea Crisis on the Shipping Industry: Analysis of the impact of global events on shipping and strategies for mitigation.
• Significance of National Quality Infrastructure and Quality Policy Requirements: Understanding the importance of quality standards and policies for importers.
The esteemed panel included: Mr. K. J. Weerasinghe, Chief Negotiator, Office for International Trade, Presidential Secretariat. Mr. K A Vimalenthirarajah, Director General, Department of Trade and Investment Policies, Ministry of Finance. Mr. Kingsley Abeywickrama, Chairman, Institute of Chartered Ship Brokers – Sri Lanka. Ms. Chandrika Thilakaratne, Director/CEO, Sri Lanka Accreditation Board.
Mr. Sudaththa (representing Mr. P B S C Nonis, Director General of Customs), joined the discussion.The session was moderated by Mr. Dhananath Fernando, CEO of Advocata Institute, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of pertinent issues facing importers in Sri Lanka.The Panel Discussion provided valuable insights and strategic recommendations to importers in Sri Lanka amidst evolving global and local trade dynamics.
88th Annual General Meeting of the Import Section of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce
Committee Photographs
Explore the rich tapestry of photographs that highlight the entrepreneurial spirit, innovation, and camaraderie among importers. Witness the exchange of ideas, the forging of partnerships, and the celebration of achievements that drive the import industry forward, capturing moments from our various events, exhibitions, trade fairs, and networking gatherings.
Witness the energy, enthusiasm, and camaraderie that permeates our important community.
Panel Discussion on Indian Rupee denominated trade settlements between India and Sri Lanka & the impact to importers
Explore the rich tapestry of photographs that highlight the entrepreneurial spirit, innovation, and camaraderie among importers. Witness the exchange of ideas, the forging of partnerships, and the celebration of achievements that drive the import industry forward, capturing moments from our various events, exhibitions, trade fairs, and networking gatherings.
Witness the energy, enthusiasm, and camaraderie that permeates our important community.