Sri Lanka and Japan have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral economic relations through structured engagement aimed at improving the investment climate and addressing investor concerns.
The Board of Investment (BOI) of Sri Lanka convened the Fourth Working-Level Meeting of the JapanโSri Lanka Committee on Business Environment on June 2 in Colombo in collaboration with the Embassy of Japan, the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Sri Lanka (JCCI-SL).
The quarterly committee serves as a platform for dialogue between Sri Lankan authorities and Japanese businesses operating in the country, focusing on reviewing previously raised issues, addressing ongoing challenges, and identifying practical solutions to improve the business environment. Addressing the meeting, BOI Acting Chairman Dr. Sulakshana Jayawardena highlighted the importance of maintaining regular engagement with the Japanese business community and reaffirmed Sri Lankaโs commitment to creating a competitive and investor-friendly environment. He emphasized that the prompt resolution of investor concerns remains essential to attracting and retaining quality foreign direct investment.
Representing the Japanese business community, JCCI-SL Chairperson Kishi Takashi commended the committeeโs role in facilitating constructive dialogue between investors and government agencies. He welcomed the cooperation extended by Sri Lankan authorities while stressing the importance of timely implementation of solutions to issues raised by investors. Japan remains one of Sri Lankaโs longstanding economic partners, contributing significantly to the countryโs development through infrastructure projects, development assistance, trade, and private sector investments. Japanese investments in Sri Lanka span sectors including manufacturing, tourism, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and services.
Officials noted that the committeeโs structured approach, which includes reviewing progress on matters discussed at previous meetings, has helped strengthen transparency and accountability in investor relations. The mechanism provides both investors and government agencies with a platform to track commitments and monitor progress on key issues.
The meeting comes as Sri Lanka continues its economic recovery and reform programme, with authorities seeking to attract increased foreign direct investment and strengthen economic partnerships. Observers noted that continued engagement with Japanese investors reflects confidence in Sri Lankaโs long-term economic prospects and its efforts to enhance regulatory consistency and ease of doing business. The BOI stated that it will continue working closely with Japanese stakeholders to further strengthen investment cooperation and explore opportunities in emerging sectors such as technology, green industries, and high-value manufacturing.
Source : Daily News
