Dr. Binod Chaudhary’s investment journey in Sri Lanka is increasingly being viewed as a calculated long-term strategy aimed at capitalising on the island’s untapped regional potential. The Nepalese billionaire, founder of CG Corp Global and Nepal’s only Forbes-listed billionaire, has steadily expanded his interests in Sri Lanka across tourism, finance and now the emerging electric vehicle sector, positioning himself as one of the country’s most persistent foreign investors.
While many international investors retreated during Sri Lanka’s prolonged economic instability, Chaudhary continued expanding his presence, reinforcing his reputation as a businessman willing to enter volatile markets ahead of recovery cycles. His conglomerate now controls interests connected to hospitality, banking and mobility sectors, reflecting a broader vision that extends well beyond traditional tourism ventures.
The businessman recently reaffirmed his confidence in Sri Lanka while addressing a forum hosted by the Sri Lanka Institute of Directors. He praised the country’s resilience and entrepreneurial talent, describing Sri Lankan companies as among the strongest in South Asia. According to Chaudhary, the island possesses distinct advantages including trust, adaptability and professional expertise that make it attractive for long-term investment.
His remarks come at a critical period for Sri Lanka as the Government attempts to restore economic credibility following sovereign default, political upheaval and currency instability. Chaudhary’s continued optimism contrasts sharply with the caution still expressed by many global investors and lenders.
The billionaire first entered Sri Lanka during the civil war years through investments tied to the Taj Samudra hotel. He later deepened his involvement during the 2008 financial crisis, targeting tourism assets while the broader market remained uncertain. More recently, he expanded into Sri Lanka’s financial sector through investments associated with Union Bank during the country’s unprecedented economic collapse in 2022 and 2023.
However, analysts believe the most strategically important development may be CG Corp’s growing interest in electric vehicles and sustainable mobility. Reports surrounding partnerships and collaborations involving John Keells Holdings have intensified speculation that Sri Lanka could become part of a larger regional EV ecosystem supported by South Asian investors.
The electric vehicle sector remains relatively underdeveloped in Sri Lanka, but rising fuel costs, environmental concerns and policy discussions surrounding green transport are creating fresh opportunities. Industry observers suggest that partnerships involving Chaudhary-linked entities and major Sri Lankan corporates could pave the way for EV assembly operations, charging networks and import distribution channels in the coming years.
Such investments would also align with wider global trends as South Asian economies gradually shift toward renewable energy and low-emission transportation. For Sri Lanka, attracting investment into future-focused sectors could help diversify an economy traditionally dependent on tourism, apparel exports and remittances.
Chaudhary has also publicly called for faster economic reforms and stronger private sector engagement. He warned that governments across the region must become more flexible and responsive to rapidly changing geopolitical and commercial realities. Sri Lanka, he argued, must move beyond cautious optimism and aggressively pursue investment-driven growth.
Following meetings with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, Chaudhary indicated there were discussions regarding potential expansion of existing businesses in Sri Lanka. Although no formal announcements have yet emerged, his comments suggest new projects may already be under consideration.
For many economists and business leaders, Chaudhary’s sustained commitment represents more than corporate expansion. It reflects a broader belief that Sri Lanka, despite repeated crises, still retains the capacity to reinvent itself as a competitive South Asian investment destination.