By Mewati Sitaram
The World Trade Centre (WTC) Mumbai, in association with the All India Association of Industries (AIAI), hosted an exclusive high-level roundtable with the Sri Lankan Consulate to strengthen bilateral trade and investment linkages between India and Sri Lanka, as per the press release from WTC.
Her Excellency, Kishani Priyanga Wickramasinghe, Consul General of Sri Lanka in Mumbai, speaking at the event emphasized that strong India-Sri Lanka relations could double trade and investment in the coming years through strategic engagement between business communities in both countries. She highlighted the growing investment climate in Sri Lanka and noted the increasing participation of Indian companies in sectors such as infrastructure, tourism, and services.
“Bilateral merchandise trade between India and Sri Lanka has crossed USD 5 billion, with India remaining a leading trade partner and Sri Lanka a significant South Asian exporter to India. There is untapped potential in services including tourism, education, healthcare, logistics, and professional services, offering immense opportunities for mutual growth,” Ms. Wickramasinghe said.
She also invited Indian companies to participate in upcoming flagship events in Sri Lanka, such as the Boat and Maritime Show and Sri Lanka Expo 26, which will be held after a 13-year hiatus, stating that these initiatives will further cement trade and investment ties.
Ms. Kumudini Irugalbandara, representing the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB), expressed gratitude to WTC Mumbai for hosting the delegation. She highlighted that Sri Lanka now exports over 25 major product categories and aims to increase export earnings to around USD 6 billion in the coming years through talent and innovation.
Dr. Vijay Kalantri, Chairman of WTC Mumbai and President of AIAI, recalled the India-Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement and stressed that both countries could benefit by focusing on niche sectors such as tea, coffee, and religious tourism. He also suggested hosting “Make in Sri Lanka in Mumbai” and “Make in India in Colombo” events as annual initiatives to boost trade and investment.
The Sri Lankan business delegation included companies from construction, engineering, infrastructure consultancy, and manufacturing sectors. Over 150 Indian business leaders participated in discussions to explore opportunities for trade, investment, and services.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr. Somesh Batra, Vice Chairman of WTC Mumbai. Ms. Priya Pansare, Director of Trade and Investment Promotion, and Ms. Sangeeta Jain, Senior Director of AIAI, were also present and interacted with the delegation.
Editor in Chief : Mewati SItaram
