ECONOMYNEXT – Sri Lanka’s National Chamber of Commerce has welcomed the 2025 budget’s focus on micro small and medium enterprises’ export growth initiatives.
“It is a positive move that the government is prioritizing MSME support and export growth initiatives,” Anura Warnakulasooriya, the president of the National Chamber of Commerce said.
The introduction of an Innovation Invention Fund with an allocation of Rs 1,000 million was also commended.
The full statement is reproduced below :
National Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka Welcomes Positive Aspects of Budget 2025
The National Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka (NCCSL) commends the government’s 2025 budget, recognizing its strategic focus on Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), export growth initiatives, and enhanced support for Research & Development (R&D) and innovation.
Speaking on the National budget proposals, Mr. Anura Warnakulasooriya, President of the National Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka, stated, “It is a positive move that the government is prioritizing MSME support and export growth initiatives. Additionally, the introduction of an Innovation Invention Fund with an allocation of Rs. 1,000 million demonstrates a strong commitment to leveraging research for economic growth. This initiative will foster
collaboration between research institutions, universities, government agencies, and the private sector, ensuring alignment with industry needs.”
The Chamber acknowledges the importance of fostering a strong innovation ecosystem that can drive entrepreneurship and economic transformation. The allocation of dedicated funding for R&D and innovation is a crucial step toward strengthening Sri Lanka’s competitive position in global markets. By promoting research-driven advancements, the government is creating opportunities for local enterprises to develop cutting-edge solutions, improve productivity, and expand their international market reach.
Furthermore, the NCCSL appreciates the emphasis placed on export-driven growth, as it aligns with the Chamber’s ongoing efforts to facilitate trade and investment opportunities, particularly through bilateral collaborations. Strengthening MSMEs and enabling them to integrate into global supply chains will not only boost economic resilience but also enhance employment generation and regional development.
As a leading voice in Sri Lanka’s business community, the National Chamber of Commerce stands ready to support and collaborate with the government in implementing these initiatives. The Chamber will continue to engage with stakeholders to ensure that the proposed measures translate into tangible benefits for businesses and the economy at large. (Colombo/Feb20/2025)
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