History
As one of the oldest and most prestigious import trade organizations in Sri Lanka, our history is steeped in remarkable achievements, transformative leadership, and a legacy of fostering excellence in the import industry.
Since our inception in the early years of the 20th century, the Import Section has been at the forefront of shaping the import trade landscape in Sri Lanka. Over the decades, we have witnessed the remarkable growth and evolution of imports, adapting to changing market dynamics and driving innovation to meet the needs of importers.
Central to our success has been our exceptional leadership. Throughout the years, visionary individuals have served as Chairpersons of the Import Section, guiding, and steering our endeavors to new heights. Their strategic vision, industry acumen, and unwavering commitment have played a pivotal role in shaping the import trade landscape and fostering a supportive ecosystem for importers.
Past Chairmen
Sir J A Tarbat
1935 – 1939
Mr. R P L Ross
1940 – 1942
Mr. A M Thalmann
1943 – 1944
Mr. R F Edge
1947
Mr. R P L Ross
1948
Mr. L Matthews
1949
Mr. C F H Edwards
1950 – 1951
Mr. R P L Ross
1951
Mr. L E Heal
1951
Mr. C F H Edwards
1952
Major J H Hoare
1953 – 1954
Mr. J O Clazey
1954
Major J H Hoare
1954 – 1956
Mr. G D Gordon
1957
Mr. B G Thornley
1957
Mr. G D Gordon
1959
Mr. M M Fielding
1959
Mr. G D Gordon
1959 – 1961
Mr. G D Gordon
1959
Mr. R G J Baynoton
1961
Mr. G D Gordon
1961 – 1962
Mr. B D Collins
1963 – 1964
Mr. G D Gordon
1961 – 1962
Mr. B D Collins
1963 – 1964
Mr. J Fosbrook
1964
Mr. B D Collins
1964 – 1965
Mr. C H White
1966
Mr. N W G Brown
1966
Mr. C H White
1967 – 1968
Mr. S Witane
1969 – 1971
Mr. M Kunaratnam
1972 – 1973
Mr. V L Wirasingha
1974 – 1978
Mr. M Kunaratnam
1979 – 1980
Mr. A C Marker
1981 – 1987
Mr. S Nagendra
1987 – 1994
Mr. D J A Abeyesekera
1964 – 1965
Mr. Suraj Fernando
2002 – 2006
Mr. Ranjan De Silva
2006 – 2009
Mr. Mahesh Wijewardene
2006 – 2009
Mr. Kevin Edwards
2012 – 2014
Mr. Dinesh de Silva
2015 – 2017
Past Executive Committee
ABANS LTD
Mr. K. Kunendran
kunendran@abansgroup.com
ASTRON LTD
Mr. Yasiruk Karawita
yasiruk@astron.lk
ABANS LTD
Mr. K. Kunendran
kunendran@abansgroup.com
ASTRON LTD
Mr. Yasiruk Karawita
yasiruk@astron.lk