The forum formed part of Port City Colombo’s ongoing regional investor engagement programme, following investor forums held in Singapore, the UAE and Oman earlier this year. The initiative reflects Port City Colombo’s efforts to attract international investors and position Sri Lanka as a regional destination for business expansion and investment.
Promoting Investment Opportunities in Sri Lanka
The forum provided Maldivian investors and business leaders with an opportunity to learn more about Port City Colombo, Sri Lanka’s 269-hectare master-planned city and Special Economic Zone (SEZ).
The discussions focused on how Port City Colombo could serve as a practical base for Maldivian businesses looking to establish operations in Sri Lanka and expand into wider South Asian markets.
Opening the forum, Sri Lankan High Commissioner to the Maldives Mohamed Rizvi Hassen highlighted the longstanding relationship between Sri Lanka and the Maldives. He noted that the close geographical, cultural and business ties between the two countries create a strong foundation for further economic cooperation.
Delivering the keynote address, Visit Maldives Corporation Chairperson and Maldives Association of Travel and Tour Operators (MATATO) President Abdulla Ghiyas Riyaz encouraged greater focus on investment, innovation, entrepreneurship and commercial partnerships between the two countries.
Sharing his experience of Port City Colombo, Riyaz highlighted the visible progress of the development and encouraged serious investors to explore the opportunities available.
Port City Colombo’s Investment Proposition
The Port City Colombo team delivered a detailed presentation covering the overall development, land and real estate investment opportunities within the SEZ, and the business setup process for companies considering establishing operations there.
Of particular interest to potential foreign investors are the investment facilities available within the SEZ. Port City Colombo offers 100% foreign ownership, full capital and profit repatriation, transactions in 16 designated currencies and a single-window regulatory framework under the Colombo Port City Economic Commission Act No. 11 of 2021.
These features are designed to provide greater flexibility and convenience for international businesses and investors seeking to establish a presence in Sri Lanka.
A Gateway for Maldivian Investors
The existing presence of Sri Lankan banks in the Maldives also provides familiar financial links for Maldivian investors considering opportunities in Sri Lanka. Bank of Ceylon, Commercial Bank of Ceylon and Hatton National Bank have established operations in the Maldives.
Commercial Bank of Ceylon has also established a branch within the Port City Colombo SEZ, providing businesses with direct access to banking services within the development.
For Maldivian businesses seeking to diversify their investments or expand beyond the domestic market, Port City Colombo presents an opportunity to access Sri Lanka and the wider South Asian region from a strategically located business hub.
Strengthening Investor Engagement
The forum concluded with a vote of thanks by CHEC Port City Colombo Assistant Managing Director Bai Xiaping, who reaffirmed Port City Colombo’s commitment to engaging with Maldivian businesses and investors.
The Malé forum represents another step in Port City Colombo’s efforts to build relationships with international investors and promote Sri Lanka’s investment potential. Through continued regional engagement, Port City Colombo aims to attract businesses and investors looking for new opportunities in Sri Lanka and the wider South Asian market.
Interested in Investing in Sri Lanka?
If you are a Maldivian investor or business looking to explore investment opportunities in Sri Lanka, DPR Investment Consultants can support you throughout your investment journey. From understanding the investment environment to establishing and expanding your business, our team can provide the guidance you need.
For more information, contact us at info@srilankainvestment.com or visit our Contact Us page to get in touch with our team.
