Monday, November 4, 2013
Sunday, November 3, 2013
Ornamental live fish exports –National Priority Needed
Asian Tribune - 03/11/2013
By T.K.Premadasa
The notable feature of our exports during the last few years was the decline in exports, an ominous signal to the economy. The reason behind this decrease was the local and foreign market factors such as high cost of production, lack of strategic strength, non-preference by Western countries and economic crises in the occidental world.
Major products manufactured in Sri Lanka which took take the precedent role in its contribution to the export trade also shown decline trend. Under this situation, the export of fresh and marine water ornamental fish have significantly maintained export strength except 2012 and now showing nearly 20 % increase of its export in 2013 up to August compare to the previous year.
Contribution of fresh water and marine water ornamental fish to the total export comes to nearly 0.4 %. Even if the percentage seems to be small, it carries a continuous share of its contribution to the national development. It is much importance looking into this sector in positive manner to take to priority area of exports as Sri Lanka rich with resources related these products.
Ornamental fish keeping is one of the most popular hobbies in the world today. Some people believes that looking in to the these fishes moving in tanks gets mental relaxation and it is an ideal tool for mediation. Even scientist believes the hobbies collection and looking in to the fish get reduction from stress and frustration. The keeping of fish as pet is not harmful to human health like other pets.
The hobbies of keeping of colorful fish in tanks has been going back to long history. The first such fish keeping fish is Gold Fish( Carassius auratus). According to historian says it was popular in China and first historical records of kept goes back to Ming Dynasty in China.( (1368–1644).
But all Sri Lankan should proud that during King Dutugamunu (161 BC to 137 BC) Sri Lanka kept gold fish as hobby. Archeologists discovered the gold fish park or Ranmasu Uyana which is located below the bund (dam) of the 'Tisawewa' tank in Anuradhapura. It is considered to be the royal park / pleasure gardens with granite ponds. It is interesting to note that in an inscription it is stated that, somewhere in this park, had been a pond with 'Goldfish'. The Vessagiriya inscription of King of 4th Mihindu has been mentioned this garden as Gold Fish Park. This proves that Sri Lanka is the first country keeping ornamental fish as hobby.
Ornamental fish developed as an industry with development of aviation industry. It made a path to become a global trade. With the development of new technologies in modern world such as development of aquaculture technology, water management systems, better understanding of nutrition and aquatic disease management and many other branches of animal husbandry sciences have supported to develop this industry as global industry.
Today this industry has became global item with nearly US$ half billion trade. The Asian countries maintained the large number of supply to the world. Singapore maintains as largest exporter of ornamental fish and recently Spain came to first place. Over hundred thousand varieties of Ornamental fish moving around the world. USA , EU Japan are the leading buyers.
Ornamental fish industry of Sri Lanka originated with the establishment of the Zoological Gardens in early 1940s. A few industrialists were involved in breeding fish before, but not on commercial basis. Of the few reputed personalities who encouraged divers on collection of marine fish as a hobby was Sir John Kotelawala. However the first public Aquarium was established in 1952. During a period of 60 years the industry became commercialized with the celebration of 50 year anniversary by some companies like, Lumbini Aquarium, Aquamarines International Private Limited.
Today nearly 50 leading companies export about thousand varieties of fresh and marine water ornamental fish to over 50 countries. Leading exporters on large scale business of aquariums located in Colombo suburban areas and Negombo region have started moving to Mahaveli and dry zone rural areas. Prevalent peaceful environment in the North and East has caused the expansion of the industry into tropical climatic locations in the island.
Sri Lanka exports over a thousand varieties of Ornamental fish to the tune of Rs 1,400 Mn around 40 countries world over. It is nearly 1.2% of the total world exports.
Sri Lanka Exports of Ornamental fish in US Dollars
By T.K.Premadasa
The notable feature of our exports during the last few years was the decline in exports, an ominous signal to the economy. The reason behind this decrease was the local and foreign market factors such as high cost of production, lack of strategic strength, non-preference by Western countries and economic crises in the occidental world.
Major products manufactured in Sri Lanka which took take the precedent role in its contribution to the export trade also shown decline trend. Under this situation, the export of fresh and marine water ornamental fish have significantly maintained export strength except 2012 and now showing nearly 20 % increase of its export in 2013 up to August compare to the previous year.
Contribution of fresh water and marine water ornamental fish to the total export comes to nearly 0.4 %. Even if the percentage seems to be small, it carries a continuous share of its contribution to the national development. It is much importance looking into this sector in positive manner to take to priority area of exports as Sri Lanka rich with resources related these products.
Ornamental fish keeping is one of the most popular hobbies in the world today. Some people believes that looking in to the these fishes moving in tanks gets mental relaxation and it is an ideal tool for mediation. Even scientist believes the hobbies collection and looking in to the fish get reduction from stress and frustration. The keeping of fish as pet is not harmful to human health like other pets.
The hobbies of keeping of colorful fish in tanks has been going back to long history. The first such fish keeping fish is Gold Fish( Carassius auratus). According to historian says it was popular in China and first historical records of kept goes back to Ming Dynasty in China.( (1368–1644).
But all Sri Lankan should proud that during King Dutugamunu (161 BC to 137 BC) Sri Lanka kept gold fish as hobby. Archeologists discovered the gold fish park or Ranmasu Uyana which is located below the bund (dam) of the 'Tisawewa' tank in Anuradhapura. It is considered to be the royal park / pleasure gardens with granite ponds. It is interesting to note that in an inscription it is stated that, somewhere in this park, had been a pond with 'Goldfish'. The Vessagiriya inscription of King of 4th Mihindu has been mentioned this garden as Gold Fish Park. This proves that Sri Lanka is the first country keeping ornamental fish as hobby.
Ornamental fish developed as an industry with development of aviation industry. It made a path to become a global trade. With the development of new technologies in modern world such as development of aquaculture technology, water management systems, better understanding of nutrition and aquatic disease management and many other branches of animal husbandry sciences have supported to develop this industry as global industry.
Today this industry has became global item with nearly US$ half billion trade. The Asian countries maintained the large number of supply to the world. Singapore maintains as largest exporter of ornamental fish and recently Spain came to first place. Over hundred thousand varieties of Ornamental fish moving around the world. USA , EU Japan are the leading buyers.
Ornamental fish industry of Sri Lanka originated with the establishment of the Zoological Gardens in early 1940s. A few industrialists were involved in breeding fish before, but not on commercial basis. Of the few reputed personalities who encouraged divers on collection of marine fish as a hobby was Sir John Kotelawala. However the first public Aquarium was established in 1952. During a period of 60 years the industry became commercialized with the celebration of 50 year anniversary by some companies like, Lumbini Aquarium, Aquamarines International Private Limited.
Today nearly 50 leading companies export about thousand varieties of fresh and marine water ornamental fish to over 50 countries. Leading exporters on large scale business of aquariums located in Colombo suburban areas and Negombo region have started moving to Mahaveli and dry zone rural areas. Prevalent peaceful environment in the North and East has caused the expansion of the industry into tropical climatic locations in the island.
Sri Lanka exports over a thousand varieties of Ornamental fish to the tune of Rs 1,400 Mn around 40 countries world over. It is nearly 1.2% of the total world exports.
Sri Lanka Exports of Ornamental fish in US Dollars
Year | 2008 | 2009 | 2010 | 2011 | 2012 | 2013Jan- July |
Value | 8,981,333 | 8,523,277 | 10,076,839 | 10,053,137 | 7,573,518 | 5,816,816 |
This industry has high expansion of potential available with an abundance of natural resources. Unbelievably charming fish of various kinds never seen before could be captured in plenty around Sri Lanka, island of the Indian Ocean. Availability of professional divers who routinely maintain the supply of marine fish is a remarkable advantage towards development of the industry.
Recent records indicate that nearly 120 species have been registered from inland water. Rivers, Reservoirs and Lakes with fresh water provide natural environment for sustenance of fresh fish. This has encouraged the government to promote production of fresh fish in central province. Sri Lanka has 82 species of indigenous fresh water fish out of which 54 species have been approved for export.
As the varieties of Fresh Water Ornamental Fish are limited, the industry has been concentrating mainly on marine water ornamental fish from the beginning as there was a vast area found in the ocean. Today Marine live fish leads by 75% of its ornamental fish exports.
However, restrictions on the import of ocean fish have been enforced by the occidental nations of the world causing a difficult situation for trade of marine fish. Fortunately, Sri Lankan breeders, particularly of younger generation, have braved the challenges with innovative and alternative measures taken to buttress the situation.
The new generation involved in breeding ornamental fish for export is qualified in professional education directly related to fish industry. Some of them have mastered marine biology degrees from world reputed Universities and utilized their know how for new innovation with high security measures adopted for the Ocean. The striking example is the introduction of new varieties of sea horse by companies like Aquamarines International (Pvt) Ltd. In early 2000, steps were taken to breed a variety of sea horse fish under the technical name Hippocampus Reidi netted from Brazilian sea exported with great success. Later the new varieties of Hippocampus ( Sea Horse ) Hippocampus Comes, Hippocampus Trimaulatues Hippocampus Kudda sea horse fish were captured from sea and effectively bred. In addition to varieties of shrimps like Fire Shrimp and Cleaner shrimp also introduced. Today the export of new varieties of fish has earned the highest export value. The objective of these researches was mainly to secure the environment. The cost of this marine fish is seven times higher than the fish captured from the ocean. Despite the high price of fish, the hobbyists have no qualms in purchasing as this system gives protection to these attractive fish as well as the environment.
Varieties of new products of artificial rocks and possibility of coral farming were introduced on experimental basis by Aqua Marine International (Pvt) Ltd opening the opportunity of a new venture to be developed to a lucrative business. Apparently, building ornamental fish villages in Sri Lanka has been proposed. Hopefully the new experiment may help develop the industry!
It is imperative for the government to give its priority to improve the industry with the support of the government. Ornamental fish is usually brought up moving with corals and live stock etc. Today experiments are being launched on upgrading the coral farming projects in Sri Lanka more effectively.
The most nations have volunteered to help develop the Coral Farming Project in their countries as a protective measure for corals in the Ocean and it will be a commercially viable industry. In appreciation of the effort taken by the companies to expand the industry with coral farming projects, it is the responsibility of the government to grant necessary approval sought by the companies without any delays in support of its endeavor of developing the industry.
As a result of experiments made already, chances are possible that export of artificial rocks in commercial scale will be launched in the near future. Tax rates will be considerably high despite this being a small scale business venture. So it is the onus of the exporters to stress the demand for tax concession in their effort to elevate the development of artificial rock industry.
As a school of thought it is suggested to open aquarium parks in the city that would make the people mentally relaxed. It is important that the government look in to the possibilities to link with its urban development activities of the government.
Another predominant factor is the high rise in electricity charges. It is suggested to address this issue with equal facilities enjoyed by other commercial organization to be extended to this industry as well.
Potential for marine fish industry in Northern waters post-war has become highly optimistic by the increasing trend of fishing in the region. The environment is so peaceful for fishermen to be engaged in their job quite freely sans threat of terrorism. If opportunity is given, the divers in the South skilled with professional expertise are willing to train Northern divers as a gesture of reconciliatory goodwill. It is the virtue of necessity on the part of the government to play the major role in taking all essential measures to have suitable protection to divers in the Northern and Eastern waters.
It lends credence to the breeders whose ventures have taken protective measures of nurturing endemic species evidently justified by the discovery of new varieties of species. Daino Pathirana discovered by Ananda Pathirana is a case in point.
Chairman of Aquamarines International (Pvt) Ltd Ananda Pathirana and Director Yohan Pathirana by their research in 2001 in Kegol and Nuckels successfully collected 8 specimens in an effort to checkmate the disappearance of this rare species. Braving a difficult challenge, breeding in large quantity of fish was begun encouraging the release of 2000 and 2500 with participation of local community and the blessings of the Department of Wild Life. The entire nation salutes them in appreciation of this excellent service.
Today the breeders are effectively utilizing advanced technology for development of the industry with no harm whatsoever to the environment. Most importantly, capture of rare varieties of marine fish from around the world and breeding them with new scientific resources methodically should be encouraged. Culturing aquarium plants in aquariums is currently in the experimental stage. New technical know-how being applied to secure the longevity of fish and new packaging techniques to reduce the weight has showcased a vast progress.
Support extended by Sri Lanka Export Development Board ( EDB) and NARA to uplift the industry is encouraging. The service rendered by the officials who assigned for the development of the industry from NARA and EDB in close communication with the exporters has gained high recognition. As proposed by the President Mahinda Rajapaksa in his budget speeches, that the implementation financial grant program to develop innovation on fresh and marine ornamental fish industry by the Sri Lanka Export Development Board with the various bureaucratic barriers is commendable.
Sri Lanka identifies key investment projects for Commonwealth Business Forum participants
The Colombo Page - 03/11/2013
Sri Lanka has identified several key areas for investment opportunities to offer to the attendants of the Commonwealth Business Forum (CBF) that will coincide with the Commonwealth Heads of Governments Meeting (CHOGM) scheduled to be held in Sri Lanka from 15th to 17th November, 2013.
The Commonwealth Business Forum will be held from 12th to 14th November at the Hotel Cinnamon Grand in Colombo.
The Forum, organized by the Commonwealth Business Council (CBC) in collaboration with the Sri Lankan government, is seen as a great opportunity for Sri Lanka to enlighten the world about the investment potentials in the island.
It is the premier business event in the Commonwealth bringing together Heads of Government, Ministers, and top business leaders from around the world and will be attended by over a thousand delegates, according to the CBC.
The main goal of the Forum is to enlighten the attendants from the Commonwealth countries as well as from other participating countries on the vast investment opportunities available in the island in various sectors and attract foreign direct investment from potential investors.
With this objective, the CBC jointly with the Board Investment (BOI) has identified investment opportunities which could be offered to potential foreign investors during the CBF.
Tourism and Leisure, Higher Education and Training, Agriculture and Fisheries, Health, Information Technology, Manufacturing and Agro-processing and Infrastructure including Aviation have been identified as key areas to promote foreign investment.
The Cabinet last week approved a proposal by Investment Promotion Minister Lakshman Yapa Abeywardena to proceed with the relevant activities of the CBF.
Sri Lanka has also organized the 'Reflection of Sri Lanka' a mega exposition to showcase the country's trade, tourism and investment potential to the global visitors who will be in the country to attend the Commonwealth Summit.
The four-day event is co-organized by the Ministry of Economic Development, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce and the Export Development Board (EDB) functioning under it, and joined by Sri Lanka Tourism, and the Board of Investment.
The 'Reflection of Sri Lanka' will be held from November 13 at the Jana Kala Kendraya (Folk Arts Center), in Battaramulla.
The exposition is aimed at illustrating Sri Lanka's capacity to easily integrate with global value chains. It will also highlight the country's logistic capabilities, high knowledge base, and its dedication to international compliance standards encasing trade, tourism and investment opportunities in them.
According to Minister of Industry and Commerce Rishad Bathiyutheen, 660 local and international exhibitors and more than 800 potential buyers from 31 countries have confirmed their participation in the event.
According to EDB, 579 local exhibitors in SME, tourism, trade and investment have come forward to enlist for Reflection's trade exposition. Another 81 Foreign companies as machinery and hi-tech equipment exhibitors from key hotspot markets such as China, India and Germany will participate.
Sri Lanka has identified several key areas for investment opportunities to offer to the attendants of the Commonwealth Business Forum (CBF) that will coincide with the Commonwealth Heads of Governments Meeting (CHOGM) scheduled to be held in Sri Lanka from 15th to 17th November, 2013.
The Commonwealth Business Forum will be held from 12th to 14th November at the Hotel Cinnamon Grand in Colombo.
The Forum, organized by the Commonwealth Business Council (CBC) in collaboration with the Sri Lankan government, is seen as a great opportunity for Sri Lanka to enlighten the world about the investment potentials in the island.
It is the premier business event in the Commonwealth bringing together Heads of Government, Ministers, and top business leaders from around the world and will be attended by over a thousand delegates, according to the CBC.
The main goal of the Forum is to enlighten the attendants from the Commonwealth countries as well as from other participating countries on the vast investment opportunities available in the island in various sectors and attract foreign direct investment from potential investors.
With this objective, the CBC jointly with the Board Investment (BOI) has identified investment opportunities which could be offered to potential foreign investors during the CBF.
Tourism and Leisure, Higher Education and Training, Agriculture and Fisheries, Health, Information Technology, Manufacturing and Agro-processing and Infrastructure including Aviation have been identified as key areas to promote foreign investment.
The Cabinet last week approved a proposal by Investment Promotion Minister Lakshman Yapa Abeywardena to proceed with the relevant activities of the CBF.
Sri Lanka has also organized the 'Reflection of Sri Lanka' a mega exposition to showcase the country's trade, tourism and investment potential to the global visitors who will be in the country to attend the Commonwealth Summit.
The four-day event is co-organized by the Ministry of Economic Development, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce and the Export Development Board (EDB) functioning under it, and joined by Sri Lanka Tourism, and the Board of Investment.
The 'Reflection of Sri Lanka' will be held from November 13 at the Jana Kala Kendraya (Folk Arts Center), in Battaramulla.
The exposition is aimed at illustrating Sri Lanka's capacity to easily integrate with global value chains. It will also highlight the country's logistic capabilities, high knowledge base, and its dedication to international compliance standards encasing trade, tourism and investment opportunities in them.
According to Minister of Industry and Commerce Rishad Bathiyutheen, 660 local and international exhibitors and more than 800 potential buyers from 31 countries have confirmed their participation in the event.
According to EDB, 579 local exhibitors in SME, tourism, trade and investment have come forward to enlist for Reflection's trade exposition. Another 81 Foreign companies as machinery and hi-tech equipment exhibitors from key hotspot markets such as China, India and Germany will participate.
Sri Lanka-China FTA not a blindsided rush- Minister Bathiudeen
nation.lk - 03/11/2013
Forthcoming FTA with China is not a blindsided move but is a process involving studies and even relevant stakeholder consultations. “We are still at initial study phase and we will not finalize product lists without consulting Lankan stakeholders such as various chambers and industries,” assured Minister of Industry and Commerce of Sri Lanka Rishad Bathiudeen to the oldest Industry Chamber in the country on October 31 in Colombo.
Minister Bathiudeen was addressing a delegation led by new Chairman, CNCI Gamini Gunasekara on October 31 at the Ministry of Industry and Commerce. Also taking part were Secretary, Ministry of Industry and Commerce Anura Siriwardena and additional secretaries, officials of Department of Commerce and CNCI officials.
Commenced in 1960, pioneering CNCI is the foremost service facilitator as well as the voice of the Industry. Currently, it consists of almost 300 members including SMEs. It is representative of all the industry sectors of Sri Lanka. Along with new Chairman Gunasekara, reps from such firms as Union Chemicals Lanka, Browns Group, EB Creasy, Central Industries, and Sinwa Holdings were meeting Minister Bathiudeen on October 31.
According to the Department of Commerce of Sri Lanka, the total trade turnover between Sri Lanka and China which stood at US $ 658.94 million in 2005 has increased by a massive 306% to $ 2676.13 million by 2012. In the corresponding period, exports to China increased by 286% to $108 million. This is an achievement considering the fact that of the 50 Asian Countries only 8 including Sri Lanka were able to maintain a positive export growth to China since 2008. Latest statistics show that China has also entered the first 25 export destinations for Sri Lankan products.
Having congratulated CNCI new Chairman Gunasekara on his new appointment and welcoming him, Minister Bathiudeen continued: “Lanka-China FTA is a major force to address our trade imbalance with China and increase our export volumes. We are still at initial study phase and we will not finalize product lists without consulting Lankan stakeholders such you and various other Chambers and industries. It is not a closed process but a transparent one. Once the initial studies are concluded, stakeholder meetings will commence. Of course, we will carefully craft market access on our side. Accordingly, we look forward to your valuable inputs. We will also take into account of the strengths of our trading partner, and product lists under other FTAs including Indo–Lanka, Lanka-Pakistan and APTA when we finalize the product lists in this regard.”
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| Rishad Bathiudeen and CNCI delegation at the Ministry of Industry and Commerce on October 31. Gamini Gunasekara (new Chairman, CNCI) is seated second from left next to Minister Bathiudeen |
Minister Bathiudeen was addressing a delegation led by new Chairman, CNCI Gamini Gunasekara on October 31 at the Ministry of Industry and Commerce. Also taking part were Secretary, Ministry of Industry and Commerce Anura Siriwardena and additional secretaries, officials of Department of Commerce and CNCI officials.
Commenced in 1960, pioneering CNCI is the foremost service facilitator as well as the voice of the Industry. Currently, it consists of almost 300 members including SMEs. It is representative of all the industry sectors of Sri Lanka. Along with new Chairman Gunasekara, reps from such firms as Union Chemicals Lanka, Browns Group, EB Creasy, Central Industries, and Sinwa Holdings were meeting Minister Bathiudeen on October 31.
According to the Department of Commerce of Sri Lanka, the total trade turnover between Sri Lanka and China which stood at US $ 658.94 million in 2005 has increased by a massive 306% to $ 2676.13 million by 2012. In the corresponding period, exports to China increased by 286% to $108 million. This is an achievement considering the fact that of the 50 Asian Countries only 8 including Sri Lanka were able to maintain a positive export growth to China since 2008. Latest statistics show that China has also entered the first 25 export destinations for Sri Lankan products.
Having congratulated CNCI new Chairman Gunasekara on his new appointment and welcoming him, Minister Bathiudeen continued: “Lanka-China FTA is a major force to address our trade imbalance with China and increase our export volumes. We are still at initial study phase and we will not finalize product lists without consulting Lankan stakeholders such you and various other Chambers and industries. It is not a closed process but a transparent one. Once the initial studies are concluded, stakeholder meetings will commence. Of course, we will carefully craft market access on our side. Accordingly, we look forward to your valuable inputs. We will also take into account of the strengths of our trading partner, and product lists under other FTAs including Indo–Lanka, Lanka-Pakistan and APTA when we finalize the product lists in this regard.”
Monday, October 28, 2013
Tea export earnings reach Rs 142 b upto September
Daily News - 29/10/2013
Sri Lanka’s overall tea export earnings during the period January – September of the year has increased by Rs. 10.6 billion year on year (YoY) to record Rs. 141.9 billion, according to a Forbes and Walker report.
However, overall export volumes in the first nine months of the year has decreased by 1.4 million kg year on year to 234.5 million kg.
The total tea export earnings in August also increased to Rs. 123.1 billion while tea export earnings in September was Rs. 18.5 billion. The volumes decreased by 3.1 million kg to 28.7 million kg.
CIS, Iran, Turkey, Iraq, Syria, UAE, Kuwait, Japan, Jordan and Libya are currently the Sri Lanka’s top ten tea importers .
“In spite of the erratic weather conditions experienced in the high and medium elevations, the Black tea production for the month of September and for the cumulative period, January to September 2013 have recorded positive variances compared to 2012,” John Keells Tea Market Report said.
High grown production has gained by 18% whilst Medium Grown production has shown an increase of 14% for the month. Cumulatively too, the production of these two elevations have shown increases of 3.47% and 5.55% respectively. In contrary, Low grown production has recorded a significant negative variance of as much as 20% for the month.
Sri Lanka’s overall tea export earnings during the period January – September of the year has increased by Rs. 10.6 billion year on year (YoY) to record Rs. 141.9 billion, according to a Forbes and Walker report.
However, overall export volumes in the first nine months of the year has decreased by 1.4 million kg year on year to 234.5 million kg.
The total tea export earnings in August also increased to Rs. 123.1 billion while tea export earnings in September was Rs. 18.5 billion. The volumes decreased by 3.1 million kg to 28.7 million kg.
CIS, Iran, Turkey, Iraq, Syria, UAE, Kuwait, Japan, Jordan and Libya are currently the Sri Lanka’s top ten tea importers .
“In spite of the erratic weather conditions experienced in the high and medium elevations, the Black tea production for the month of September and for the cumulative period, January to September 2013 have recorded positive variances compared to 2012,” John Keells Tea Market Report said.
High grown production has gained by 18% whilst Medium Grown production has shown an increase of 14% for the month. Cumulatively too, the production of these two elevations have shown increases of 3.47% and 5.55% respectively. In contrary, Low grown production has recorded a significant negative variance of as much as 20% for the month.
Sunday, October 27, 2013
Lanka moves up in global competitiveness
The Island - 28/10/2013
Signalling a positive turn for its export diversification moves, Sri Lanka has notched itself up in the latest Global Competitiveness Index. And no less than 22 FTAs have helped Sri Lanka's topmost Southern hemispheric trading partner to lift itself off from a 'backyard GDP' and speed up to one of the best economies in South America today.
"I am pleased to say that Sri Lanka has improved to Rank 65 from its previous 68 in the Global Competitiveness Report 2013-2014. We stand just below Russian Federation in this ranking. The same index says that, Sri Lanka leads among SAARC countries on competitiveness levels" said Rishad Bathiudeen (Minister of Industry and Commerce of Sri Lanka) on 25 October in Mt. Lavinia.
Minister Bathiudeen was addressing the Seminar "From Agriculture to Agribusiness: The Pathway of Chile" last Friday (25) at Mount Lavinia Hotel. Joining the session were Sergio Rodriguez (Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry Engineering, University Catholic of Chile), and Mano Selvanathan (Honorary Consul of Chile in Sri Lanka). The session was attended by officials from EDB, private sector reps including Cargills, and academia and officials from Chile's Delhi Embassy.
Minister Bathiudeen revealed: "Chile is one of Sri Lanka's leading trade partners in the South American region. Bilateral trade between Chile and Sri Lanka stood at $ 45 Mn in 2012. Our top two exports to Chile are from agro sector- that is, tea and spices. The bi-lateral agreement, for agricultural trade, and cooperation, between both countries, signed in Colombo, in 2007, strengthened our historic links, further. We also see Chile as a platform to access other markets, in the South American region. We congratulate Chile for getting selected as the highest ranked, Latin American nation by the World Economic Forum in its latest, Global Competitiveness Report 2013-2014. This achievement is despite the challenging international markets. I am also pleased to say that, Sri Lanka too has improved to Rank 65 from its previous 68 in the same Index. We stand just below Russian Federation in this ranking. The same index says that, Sri Lanka leads among SAARC countries in competitiveness levels."
"Back in 1980s we were backward but after opening our economy and entering to many FTAs, our GDP grew steadily and now Chile is a global player. As a result, our exports grew and today we are the fifth largest exporter of wine in the world" said (HE) Cristian Barros, the New Delhi based Ambassador of Chile accredited to Sri Lanka, and added: "Sri Lanka - Chile trade cooperation goes back a long way despite being geographically distant. And of course, 90% of Chileans drink Ceylon Tea!"
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| Rishad Bathiudeen (Minister of Industry and Commerce-left) in discussion with (HE) Cristian Barros (New Delhi based Ambassador of Chile accredited to Sri Lanka-right) during 25 October's presentation at Mt Lavinia Hotel. |
"I am pleased to say that Sri Lanka has improved to Rank 65 from its previous 68 in the Global Competitiveness Report 2013-2014. We stand just below Russian Federation in this ranking. The same index says that, Sri Lanka leads among SAARC countries on competitiveness levels" said Rishad Bathiudeen (Minister of Industry and Commerce of Sri Lanka) on 25 October in Mt. Lavinia.
Minister Bathiudeen was addressing the Seminar "From Agriculture to Agribusiness: The Pathway of Chile" last Friday (25) at Mount Lavinia Hotel. Joining the session were Sergio Rodriguez (Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry Engineering, University Catholic of Chile), and Mano Selvanathan (Honorary Consul of Chile in Sri Lanka). The session was attended by officials from EDB, private sector reps including Cargills, and academia and officials from Chile's Delhi Embassy.
Minister Bathiudeen revealed: "Chile is one of Sri Lanka's leading trade partners in the South American region. Bilateral trade between Chile and Sri Lanka stood at $ 45 Mn in 2012. Our top two exports to Chile are from agro sector- that is, tea and spices. The bi-lateral agreement, for agricultural trade, and cooperation, between both countries, signed in Colombo, in 2007, strengthened our historic links, further. We also see Chile as a platform to access other markets, in the South American region. We congratulate Chile for getting selected as the highest ranked, Latin American nation by the World Economic Forum in its latest, Global Competitiveness Report 2013-2014. This achievement is despite the challenging international markets. I am also pleased to say that, Sri Lanka too has improved to Rank 65 from its previous 68 in the same Index. We stand just below Russian Federation in this ranking. The same index says that, Sri Lanka leads among SAARC countries in competitiveness levels."
"Back in 1980s we were backward but after opening our economy and entering to many FTAs, our GDP grew steadily and now Chile is a global player. As a result, our exports grew and today we are the fifth largest exporter of wine in the world" said (HE) Cristian Barros, the New Delhi based Ambassador of Chile accredited to Sri Lanka, and added: "Sri Lanka - Chile trade cooperation goes back a long way despite being geographically distant. And of course, 90% of Chileans drink Ceylon Tea!"
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
Reflection of Sri Lanka
news.lk - 22/10/2013
A joint Trade, Tourism and Investment exhibition parallel to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) has been organized to be held from 13th to 17th November at the Janakala Kendraya in Battaramulla in Colombo under the title “Reflection of Sri Lanka”.
This exhibition has been jointly organized by the Ministries of Economic Development, Industry and Commerce and Investment Promotion. More than 300 Sri Lankan exporters including 75 machinery exporters and 100 technology providers and 200 SMEs will showcase their products at this mega exhibition.
At a media conference held at the Centre for Media Development of the Information this morning, the Deputy Minister of Economic Development Mr. Susantha Punchinilame said that holding of Commonwealth Heads of Summit (CHOGM) in Sri Lanka will provide the opportunity for Heads of States, Business delegations and the international journalist to find the true situation about Sri Lanka at a time malicious propaganda are being carried out about the country by anti-national elements. He said that the Economic Development Ministry in collaboration with other Ministries has planned to get the maximum benefit out of the CHOGM.
Minister of Investment Promotion Mr. Lakshman Yapa Abeywardene addressing the media conference criticized the stance of the opposition about CHOGM despite it is being an event beneficial to the people of this country. He said that when Sri Lanka was nominated as the host country the opposition claimed that Heads of States will not come to the country and even tried to prevent them coming for the Summit. Finally when almost all the Heads of States have confirmed their participation, the Minister said that they are now criticizing about the expenditure. He said that all infrastructure development being carried out is part of the ongoing development process since a long time and there is nothing new in these activities.
The Minister said that the Board of Investment is planning to get foreign investments increased to 10 million U.S.$ within the next 4 years as a result of the CHOGM. He said that the BOI will present 56 Investment Proposals to the Heads of States and the participants of the Business Forum.
Minister of Commerce and Industry Mr. Rishard Badiuddin said that CHOGM is a landmark event and the Reflection of Sri Lanka Exhibition will present more than 300 Sri Lankan products to the foreign visitors. He said that more than 1,000 buyers are expected to attend CHOGM and its related events and the Exhibition has been organized to focus their attention on products and other facilities and investment potentials available in Sri Lanka. He said that the CHOGM will crate the background for Sri Lanka to increase its exports to 20 Million US$ by 2020.
Details of the Exhibition arrangements that have been made by the Export Development Board and the Tourism Promotion Authority were made by the Chairman and Chief Executive of the Sri Lanka Export Development Board Mr. Bandula Egodade and the Chairman of the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority Mr. Bashwara Gunaratne. The Secretary to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry Mr. Anura Siriwardene also spoke at the Media Conference. The Secretary to the Ministry of Mass Media and Information Dr. Charita Herath and the Director General of the Government Information Depart Professor Ariyaratne Atugala also attended the Media Conference.
A joint Trade, Tourism and Investment exhibition parallel to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) has been organized to be held from 13th to 17th November at the Janakala Kendraya in Battaramulla in Colombo under the title “Reflection of Sri Lanka”.
This exhibition has been jointly organized by the Ministries of Economic Development, Industry and Commerce and Investment Promotion. More than 300 Sri Lankan exporters including 75 machinery exporters and 100 technology providers and 200 SMEs will showcase their products at this mega exhibition.
At a media conference held at the Centre for Media Development of the Information this morning, the Deputy Minister of Economic Development Mr. Susantha Punchinilame said that holding of Commonwealth Heads of Summit (CHOGM) in Sri Lanka will provide the opportunity for Heads of States, Business delegations and the international journalist to find the true situation about Sri Lanka at a time malicious propaganda are being carried out about the country by anti-national elements. He said that the Economic Development Ministry in collaboration with other Ministries has planned to get the maximum benefit out of the CHOGM.
Minister of Investment Promotion Mr. Lakshman Yapa Abeywardene addressing the media conference criticized the stance of the opposition about CHOGM despite it is being an event beneficial to the people of this country. He said that when Sri Lanka was nominated as the host country the opposition claimed that Heads of States will not come to the country and even tried to prevent them coming for the Summit. Finally when almost all the Heads of States have confirmed their participation, the Minister said that they are now criticizing about the expenditure. He said that all infrastructure development being carried out is part of the ongoing development process since a long time and there is nothing new in these activities.
The Minister said that the Board of Investment is planning to get foreign investments increased to 10 million U.S.$ within the next 4 years as a result of the CHOGM. He said that the BOI will present 56 Investment Proposals to the Heads of States and the participants of the Business Forum.
Minister of Commerce and Industry Mr. Rishard Badiuddin said that CHOGM is a landmark event and the Reflection of Sri Lanka Exhibition will present more than 300 Sri Lankan products to the foreign visitors. He said that more than 1,000 buyers are expected to attend CHOGM and its related events and the Exhibition has been organized to focus their attention on products and other facilities and investment potentials available in Sri Lanka. He said that the CHOGM will crate the background for Sri Lanka to increase its exports to 20 Million US$ by 2020.
Details of the Exhibition arrangements that have been made by the Export Development Board and the Tourism Promotion Authority were made by the Chairman and Chief Executive of the Sri Lanka Export Development Board Mr. Bandula Egodade and the Chairman of the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority Mr. Bashwara Gunaratne. The Secretary to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry Mr. Anura Siriwardene also spoke at the Media Conference. The Secretary to the Ministry of Mass Media and Information Dr. Charita Herath and the Director General of the Government Information Depart Professor Ariyaratne Atugala also attended the Media Conference.
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