🤝 Sri Lanka & New Zealand Target Stronger Trade, Investment & Regional SME Partnerships 📈

The Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Sri Lanka (FCCISL) met with New Zealand High Commissioner David Pine to advance bilateral economic cooperation and review the Strategic Cooperation Plan. • Key Bilateral Focus Areas: - Establishing a New Zealand-Sri Lanka trade & investment framework with direct B2B ties. - Connecting Sri Lankan SMEs with Maori-led enterprises in agriculture, forestry, seafood, tourism, arts/handicrafts, fintech, and ICT/BPM. - Enhancing trade exposure for key export sectors, including tea, cinnamon, spices, gems & jewellery, rubber & coconut products, and apparel & textiles. • Key Regional & Sector Initiatives: - Dairy Sector: Facilitating technical knowledge transfer and modern farming systems to develop Sri Lanka's regional dairy industry (focused on Uva/Badulla). - Delegation & Forums: FCCISL to lead a business delegation to New Zealand in Feb 2027 for a joint Business & Investment Forum. - Upcoming Milestones: Engagement planned for Sri Lanka Expo 2027 and a potential MoU with a leading New Zealand chamber. • Entrepreneurship & Connectivity: - Programs targeting capacity building for women and young entrepreneurs. - Broader avenues discussed in air connectivity, education, sports, and tourism.