Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya says promoting the local industrial sector is one of the key priorities of the Government.
She made these remarks while attending the official opening ceremony of the INCO 2026 Industrial Exhibition on Friday (13) at the BMICH Exhibition Centre, according to the Prime Minister’s Media Division.
The INCO 2026 Industrial Exhibition, organised by the Institution of Incorporated Engineers, Sri Lanka (IIESL), is being held for the 20th consecutive year and will run from March 13 to 15.
Addressing the event, the Prime Minister said the engineering sector plays a vital role in addressing practical challenges faced by a country while improving efficiency and safety.
She also noted that exhibitions of this nature encourage students to engage in innovation and technological development.
Dr. Amarasuriya said the Government has implemented several measures to accelerate industrial development, including the establishment of the National Industry Information System (NIIS), a centralized digital platform designed to collect and manage data related to the country’s economic and industrial activities.
She added that steps are also being taken to provide financial support to industrialists through revolving funds.
The Prime Minister further noted that this year’s exhibition has attracted international participation, creating opportunities for local entrepreneurs to explore new markets and gain exposure to global technologies.
“With the participation of engineers, students and entrepreneurs, this exhibition marks an important step toward the country’s industrial future,” she said.
The event was attended by Chairman of the Export Development Board Mangala Wijesinghe, Chairman of the National Paper Company Limited Upali Rathnayake, President of IIESL Engineer Ananda Gunawardena, as well as local and foreign investors, entrepreneurs and industrialists.