In a significant move to support Sri Lankan entrepreneurs in the United Kingdom, the High Commission of Sri Lanka in London, in collaboration with NLC Consultants – UK, hosted the inaugural “Sri Lanka Business Promotion Dialogue” on 31 January.
The event aimed to foster business development for Sri Lankan startups and SMEs in the UK, facilitate international market expansion for Sri Lankan-origin products, and enhance employment opportunities for Sri Lankans residing in Britain.
Delivering the opening remarks, Minister (Commercial) of the High Commission, Somasena Mahadiulwewa, emphasized the event’s importance as a platform to strengthen Sri Lankan entrepreneurship in the UK.
He outlined the long-term vision of the initiative, which includes a series of similar events across various UK regions.
Ultimately, the mission is to establish a dedicated SME Entrepreneurs’ Hub at the High Commission, aligning with the new Sri Lankan government’s policies and the strategic guidance of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, and other relevant ministries.
A key highlight of the event was the address by Ranganath Abeykoonge, a Fellow Chartered Accountant and Managing Director of Sonic Builders, London. Sharing his journey from corporate roles, including experience at TK Maxx, to successfully running his own business, Abeykoonge provided invaluable insights and motivation to aspiring entrepreneurs.
He encouraged young Sri Lankans to explore business opportunities in the UK, emphasizing the potential for creating employment for fellow Sri Lankans.
The event also featured an insightful presentation by Thilak Dharmarathne, a past member of the Sri Lanka AAT Council and an MBA holder.
As a director of NLC Consultants – UK, Dharmarathne discussed strategies for business growth and market penetration, equipping attendees with practical knowledge to navigate the competitive UK business landscape.
Adding further value to the discussion, a panel of experts led by Minister (Commercial) Mahadiulwewa provided specialized guidance on crucial aspects of business management and operations in the UK. Chartered Accountant Nayana Kularathne covered the essentials of maintaining company accounts and tax compliance, while Sri Lankan lawyer and NLC Consultants – UK Director Heshan Mathugamage elaborated on the startup process for businesses. UK Solicitor Mohamed Sameen addressed legal considerations, and HR Consultant Kosaka Perera discussed UK employment policies, offering clarity on key human resources and regulatory frameworks.
Minister (Commercial) Mahadiulwewa also highlighted trade incentives available for Sri Lankan exporters under the UK’s Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS), introduced by UK authorities in June 2023. He detailed UK product labelling requirements, food and product standards, and outlined investment and tourism opportunities available in Sri Lanka.
