By: Staff Writer
October 26, Colombo (LNW): Sampath Bank has reaffirmed its strong commitment to Sri Lanka’s export sector by renewing its partnership with the National Chamber of Exporters (NCE) for 2025. The agreement, signed at the bank’s head office in Colombo, marks another milestone in a long-standing collaboration aimed at promoting ethical trade, sustainable practices, and global competitiveness among Sri Lankan exporters.
The renewal underscores Sampath Bank’s role as a key financial partner to the nation’s exporters at a time when the country seeks to strengthen export earnings and rebuild investor confidence. Through this partnership, the bank will continue to champion responsible trade and sustainable development across the export industry.
A major highlight of the agreement is Sampath Bank’s decision to sponsor 30 member companies to obtain the NCE’s Certificate of Ethical Trading (CET). The certification, unique to the NCE as the only Sri Lankan trade chamber authorised to issue it, serves as an internationally recognised benchmark for ethical and sustainable business operations.
The CET helps exporters demonstrate their adherence to fair labour practices, environmental stewardship, and sound corporate governance attributes increasingly demanded by global buyers. By supporting this initiative, Sampath Bank aims to help exporters enhance their brand credibility, access new markets, and gain a competitive advantage in the global marketplace.
Speaking at the signing, Sampath Bank PLC Assistant General Manager–International Banking, Halin Hettigoda, said, “Exporters continue to play a defining role in revitalising Sri Lanka’s economy. At Sampath Bank, we remain deeply committed to empowering them through responsible banking, ethical trade support, and financial innovation. Our ongoing partnership with the NCE reflects this shared vision to strengthen the export sector and build a more resilient and inclusive economy.”
The collaboration will also give Sampath Bank greater visibility through NCE’s high-profile trade seminars and policy discussions that bring together industry leaders, policymakers, and business owners. These platforms encourage dialogue, knowledge sharing, and innovation in the export sector.
In addition, the bank will participate in NCE’s Regional Exporters Delegation program, which facilitates engagement with regional producers and suppliers, promoting financial inclusion and regional trade development.
The year-long partnership will culminate in the prestigious 33rd NCE Export Awards, to be held on February 13, 2026, at the Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo. The event celebrates outstanding exporters who contribute significantly to national growth.
Through this renewed alliance, Sampath Bank continues to position itself as a catalyst for ethical trade and sustainable export growth reinforcing its long-term vision of empowering Sri Lankan businesses to thrive in an increasingly responsible global economy.
