Visiting Chinese delegation explores biz opportunities in SL

• Eyes investments in modern jewellery-making for high-end export market, mineral processing and renewable energy production

By Kelum Bandara 
A top  delegation of Chinese investors, who completed a visit to Sri Lanka recently, said investment potential in the country remains ‘very high’, like in China during the 1980s and most of them would return with concrete ideas for investing in modern jewellery-making for the high-end export market, mineral processing and renewable energy production. 

Zhai Yilin, Executive Secretary of Global Business School for Sustainable Development (International Cultural Exchange), who was part of the delegation, said in a brief interview with Daily Mirror that the delegation feels positive about the business and cultural environment of Sri Lanka. 

“We feel that the people here are very friendly and always have a beautiful welcoming smile. At the same time, the investment potential here is very high, which is equivalent to the 1980s in China. There are so many opportunities. We will explore all aspects. Many of the group will return to Sri Lanka with concrete ideas for investing in modern jewellery-making for the high-end export market, minerals processing, renewable energy production, buying tea, etc,” he said.   
Asked about specific decisions reached during the visit, he said the delegation had a series of exchanges with the Board of Investment, Tourism Ministry, prime minister and Tea Board.  

“We look forward to bringing more outstanding Chinese entrepreneurs and high-quality sustainable industries to Sri Lanka in the future and jointly building a sustainable Sri Lanka. The island has superb attractions. Its location is unique. Its excellent relations with other countries are hugely attractive. Its people are educated and many speak English and some speak Chinese. Some of its products are already highly sought after in China, for example, its gorgeous gems and tea. Chinese also like Sri Lanka’s Buddhist culture,” he said.