The committee for the year 2024/2025

The Import Section of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce successfully conducted its 89th Annual General Meeting at the Shangri-La Hotel Colombo recently, with the State Minister of Financer Shehan Semasinghe in attendance as the Chief Guest. 

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, 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.