In a significant step towards enhancing economic cooperation between Sri Lanka and Thailand, Saranga Wijeyarathne, President of the Colombo Chamber of Commerce and Director of the Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Sri Lanka (FCCISL), along with Dushyantha Basnayake, President of the Sri Lanka-Thailand Business Council, met Sanan Angubolkul, Chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce and Board of Trade of Thailand .
The high-level meeting took place at the Grand Hyatt in Bangkok to discuss strengthening trade ties and economic cooperation between the two countries.
The meeting, held against the backdrop of the recently signed Sri Lanka-Thailand Free Trade Agreement (SLTFTA), focused on strategies to maximise the benefits of this landmark agreement. Both parties emphasized the importance of awareness programs among the business communities in Sri Lanka and Thailand to fully leverage the opportunities presented by the SLTFTA.
The discussions also highlighted the need to address the current trade deficit, which is in favor of Thailand. New product categories were explored to diversify Sri Lankan exports, which are currently heavily dependent on gems. The SLTFTA is expected to open up numerous new avenues for trade, significantly boosting Sri Lanka’s export revenue.
Angubolkul assured his fullest cooperation and attention to assist Sri Lanka in its efforts to increase export revenue. He emphasised the importance of collaborative efforts to enhance bilateral trade and investment. The meeting also included a discussion on potential high-powered business delegations from Sri Lanka and Thailand, focusing on mutual trade and investment opportunities.
The delegation from Thailand included Phurisit Changsiripun, Vice Executive Director of the Board of Trade of Thailand, Ms. Preechaya Suwannasit from the Board of Trade of Thailand, and Mr. Sanjeewa Ediriwickremasuriya, Vice President of the Thai-Sri Lanka Chamber of Commerce. Their participation underscored the commitment of both countries to fostering stronger economic ties.
Saranga Wijeyarathne said, “This is a pivotal moment in the trade relations between Sri Lanka and Thailand. The SLTFTA opens up a new chapter of economic collaboration, and we are excited about the potential it holds for both our countries. We look forward to working closely with our Thai counterparts to realize these opportunities.”
Dushyantha Basnayake said, “The discussions were fruitful, and we are confident that with the support of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, we can significantly enhance our trade relationship. This collaboration is crucial for the economic growth and prosperity of both nations.”
The meeting marks a milestone in the bilateral relations between Sri Lanka and Thailand, setting the stage for increased trade, investment, and economic cooperation in the years to come.
