- Urges BOI for enhanced trade facilitation and investment growth
The sole trade chamber of the Board of Investment (BOI) enterprises (FTZMA) recently met with the new chairman of the BOI to discuss the critical measures needed to enhance investment and trade facilitation in Sri Lanka.
The meeting, held in the BOI chairman’s boardroom, highlighted the urgent need for a Single Window and One-Stop Shop to simplify and streamline the investment process.
During the discussions, the FTZMA emphasised several key issues:
- Empowering BOI: Reinvigorate the BOI with powers akin to those held during the GCEC era, aimed at seamless trade facilitation.
- Digital transformation: Accelerate the digitalisation and automation of processes to improve operational efficiency.
- Infrastructure and security enhancements: Improve infrastructure and increase security measures within the BOI zones to bolster investor confidence.
- Combating corruption: Implement strict measures to eliminate bribery and corruption within the BOI.
- Legislative support: Urge the government to refrain from the Economic Transformation Act proposals that threaten to burden the taxpayers by unnecessarily segmenting the BOI.
Reflecting on the discussions, FTZMA Chairman Dhammika Fernando stated, “It is crucial that we bridge the existing gap in trade facilitation services evident since the GCEC era. We need a robust legal framework to empower the BOI and facilitate smoother operations for investors.”
The meeting also addressed the current challenges the investors face and the necessity of reviewing the existing policies to foster an export-led growth strategy under the NPP government. The FTZMA underscored the importance of establishing a rigorous security system, including CCTV surveillance, to safeguard against pilferage at inspection points in all the BOI zones.
Acknowledging the concerns raised, the BOI chairman pledged his commitment to implementing the proposed security upgrades and enhancing digital initiatives aimed at improving the business environment. Furthermore, he proposed to hold quarterly review meetings with the FTZMA to promote transparency and growth in the sector.
The delegation included FTZMA Chairman Dhammika Fernando, General Secretary Tyronne Weckasinghe, Immediate Past Vice Chairman Hemantha Perera and other executive committee members.
