SL-Greater Mekong Business Council discusses trade, investment with Vietnam envoy

From left: Ranil Chandrasekara, Shaameel Mohideen, Immediate Past President Ranil Seneviratne, Mahen Weerasekera, President S.M.D. Suriyakumara, Ambassador of Vietnam Ho Thi Thanh Truc, Tilak Gunawardane, Vice President Nishan Seneviratne, Counsellor and Deputy Chief of Mission of Vietnam Tran Trong Thanh, Noory Kiyas and Secretariat of Ceylon Chamber of Commerce Amanthi Silva

A recent meeting between the Sri Lanka-Greater Mekong Business Council (SLGMBC) of the Ceylon Chamber with Ambassador of Vietnam to Sri Lanka Ho Thi Thanh Truc focused on identifying strategies to boost production, increase exports and attract investments in various sectors, including agriculture, construction, logistics, tourism and pharmaceuticals.

During the discussion SLGMBC President S.M.D. Suriyakumara emphasised on the importance of attracting Vietnamese investors to Sri Lanka, particularly in agriculture and manufacturing, where there is significant potential for growth. They highlighted the need to boost Sri Lanka’s production and exports through strong business partnerships.

Investment in agricultural production and processing was a major focus, with the council citing Vietnam’s successful models as examples. Specific areas like cashew and coffee production, where Vietnam excels, were identified as potential sectors for valuable expertise and investment.

Recognising the potential in tourism, the council proposed initiatives to attract more Vietnamese tourists to Sri Lanka. Discussions included cultural exchange programmes and establishing direct flight connections to enhance tourism flow between the two countries.

The council explored opportunities for educational collaboration, noting the increasing interest among Vietnamese students to study in Sri Lanka. The potential for collaboration in English medium education was highlighted, emphasising the relevant affordability and quality of Sri Lanka’s English education system compared to other countries. Establishing partnerships with educational institutions was seen as a promising avenue for growth. 
Given Sri Lanka’s heavy reliance on pharmaceutical imports, the council identified this sector as a priority for investment. Collaboration with Vietnamese pharmaceutical companies could significantly reduce dependency on imports and help develop a robust local manufacturing base.

The potential for joint ventures in construction and infrastructure projects was discussed. Sri Lanka’s need for modern infrastructure presents an attractive opportunity for Vietnamese investors.

Truc expressed strong support for these initiatives and reiterated Vietnam’s commitment to enhancing economic cooperation with Sri Lanka.