📈 Sri Lanka–Thailand Business Forum Focuses on Free Trade Agreement & Investment Growth

The newly enacted Sri Lanka–Thailand Free Trade Agreement (SLTFTA) took center stage at a high-level bilateral forum, aiming to strengthen supply chains, attract investment, and expand regional trade. • Overall Trade Figures: Bilateral trade surged to USD 649 million in 2025, marking a sharp 48% YoY growth from the previous year. • Key Investment Drivers: Major cross-border investments highlighted include Sri Lanka's Hayleys Group operating in Thailand, alongside prominent Thai ventures in Sri Lanka like INSEE Cement and CP Group. • Sector Breakdown & Opportunities: • Government and industry leaders identified high-potential sectors for future expansion, notably food processing, logistics, information technology, research and development, and technology-driven investments. • The Thai Chamber of Commerce highlighted further mutual opportunities across textiles, electronics, machinery, tourism, and healthcare. • Strategic National Context: Sri Lanka is being positioned as a strategic gateway to South Asia and the Middle East. Officials emphasized leveraging Sri Lanka's highly skilled workforce alongside Thailand's industrial strengths to build competitive regional value chains. • Regulatory & Digital Focus: Discussions stressed the importance of efficient customs procedures, digitalization, innovation, and maximizing FTA utilization to drive competitiveness and future business expansion.