A high-level joint meeting was recently convened at the Cinnamon Lakeside Hotel to advance the development of power boating in Sri Lanka—as both a recreational sport and a potential export-driven industry.
The meeting brought together key stakeholders including Chaturanga Abeysinghe from the Ministry of Industries and Entrepreneurship Development, representatives from the National Chamber of Commerce and Shipbuilding (CMISL), the Lanka Powerboat Association, and the International Motor Boat Union (UIM).
Although power boating has had a presence in Sri Lanka for over a decade, earlier efforts have been largely fragmented. The current initiative marks a strategic shift toward an integrated national approach.
Participants explored the feasibility of manufacturing boats and related equipment domestically for export, while ensuring adherence to international standards. Strengthening Sri Lanka’s marine tourism appeal—particularly through events and festivals—was also a central focus.
This multi-stakeholder initiative will now proceed as a joint effort involving the Ministries of Industries, Sports, and Tourism, with the aim of positioning Sri Lanka as a regional hub for marine sports and powerboat manufacturing.
