By: Staff Writer
March 31, Colombo (LNW):The Sweden-Sri Lanka Business Council (SSLBC) has reported significant growth in Swedish business engagement with Sri Lanka, along with strong optimism for 2025. According to the council’s 2025 Membership Survey, the past five years have seen steady expansion, with particularly notable growth in 2024.
The survey results reflect a growing interest among Swedish companies in Sri Lanka, evident in the increase of SSLBC members from 75 to 100 in just two years. SSLBC Secretary General Leif I Ohlson highlighted the positive trends, stating,
“The results are encouraging. Our members have strengthened their business relations with Sri Lanka, and we are witnessing a rising interest from the Swedish business community.” However, he also pointed out ongoing concerns regarding visa processes for business visits, conferences, and trade fairs, urging relevant authorities to take action.
Conducted in February 2025, the survey gathered responses from half of the SSLBC’s members, spanning industries such as IT, manufacturing, trade, food, and tourism. Notably, 75% of respondents have been operating in or with Sri Lanka for at least three years.
Key findings from the survey indicate that nearly 60% of members reported business growth in Sri Lanka over the past five years, with a similar proportion experiencing expansion in 2024 alone. Confidence in Sri Lanka’s business environment has surged, with 70% expecting positive developments in 2025— a stark contrast to the 25% in 2023 when the country was still recovering from the 2022 fiscal crisis.
Moreover, optimism remains high regarding individual business prospects. Over 60% of members anticipate further growth in their Sri Lanka-related ventures this year.
The survey also identified the top business priorities for 2025. The most pressing concern is the availability of skilled labor, cited by 74% of respondents. Other key issues include clear and predictable import/export regulations (47%), financing (44%), improved flight connections (37%), stable payment flows (35%), Sri Lanka’s image in Swedish media (34%), and transportation infrastructure (29%).
Sri Lanka’s highly educated workforce, particularly in the IT sector, continues to attract Swedish companies. Competitive salary structures further enhance the country’s appeal. However, the survey reveals that only a small number of companies have received support from Swedish or Sri Lankan trade promotion agencies. While recent improvements have been observed, more efforts are needed to facilitate business development.
Ohlson emphasized the importance of on-ground presence and peer-to-peer experience sharing, recognizing SSLBC’s role in fostering these connections. Established in 2006, the council currently has 100 members across IT, manufacturing, consumer goods, food, and tourism sectors. Collectively, these businesses generate over 2,000 jobs in Sri Lanka.
SSLBC remains committed to enhancing member value through knowledge sharing, networking, and advocacy. By strengthening ties between trade organizations, business intermediaries, and companies in both nations, the council continues to play a pivotal role in stimulating Sweden-Sri Lanka business relations.
