🚢 US FMC Chief Urges Sri Lanka to Seize Maritime Opportunity via Reforms and FDI

• Strategic Trade Position: US Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) Chairperson Laura DiBella highlighted maritime & logistics as the foundation for Sri Lanka’s economic expansion during the 8th Colombo International Maritime and Logistics Conference. Colombo Port currently handles ~500,000 containers of US-related cargo annually, valued at approximately US$ 30 Bn. • Regulatory & Competition Reforms: Urged Sri Lanka to establish a robust regulatory framework and competitive watchdog to maintain healthy market dynamics, foster innovation, and de-risk the investment climate to attract vital foreign direct investment (FDI). • Private Sector Leadership: Stated that private enterprises must drive the growth of the maritime hub, with the government serving as an enabler through policy reform rather than leading commercial expansion. • Tech & Economic Spillovers: Highlighted that leveraging modern technology and innovation within the maritime ecosystem will generate widespread economic benefits across related industries, reinforcing Colombo’s role as a key Indo-Pacific transshipment hub.