A business networking event organised recently by the Sri Lanka – Greater Mekong Business Council (SLGMBC) of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce facilitated opportunities to enhance bilateral trade between Sri Lanka and Thailand.
Attended by His Excellency Poj Harnpol, Ambassador of Thailand to Sri Lanka, the networking event explored opportunities for increasing the volume of Sri Lankan exports to Thailand, as well as developing trade, tourism and economic cooperation between the two countries.
Highlighting the long-standing cultural and economic ties between the two countries, Ambassador Harnpol welcomed enhanced for prospects for enhancing trade between the two countries. While continuing to focus on traditional import and export products such as precious stones, rubber, plastic, garments, agricultural produce, etc., H E stated that Thailand is in the process of designing itself as a medical and wellness hub, as well as promoting the concept of ‘workcation’, where expatriates could base themselves in Thailand while working remotely for any part of the world.
President of the SLGMBC Mr. S. M. D. Suriyakumar expressed Sri Lanka’s enthusiasm to develop trade, tourism and investment, and the opportunity to balance Thailand’s trade surplus with Sri Lanka, while also paying tribute to the strong historic cultural ties Sri Lanka and Thailand enjoyed.
Ms. Anoma Premathilaka – Director, Market Development of the Export Development Board drew attention to market potential analyses carried out by the EDB which indicated strong potential for exports such as precious stones, black tea, wheat flour, etc. and expressed optimism that existing trade frameworks between the two countries would enable opportunities in fields such as education as well.
