📈 Visa Outlines Inclusion Drive to Strengthen Sri Lanka’s Digital Economy

Visa Sri Lanka is deepening its role in supporting the country's digital transformation by focusing on cybersecurity, data standards, and financial inclusion, according to Country Manager Avanthi Colombage. • Trust Barrier: A key challenge is the lack of consistency across public sector digital platforms, creating a trust barrier that sees citizens prefer in-person transactions for government services, unlike the private banking sector. • Global Investment: Visa has invested over $12 billion globally in the last few years towards cybersecurity and data security, operating four 24/7 global security centers. • Strategic Pillars: The company's strategy is centered on three key pillars: • Investment in security infrastructure. • Adherence to global standards (e.g., PCI DSS, ISO) by banks and fintech partners. • Advisory Support to government and banking entities on security best practices. • Inclusion Focus: Visa is committed to expanding financial inclusion through capacity-building, helping underserved communities and supporting women home entrepreneurs with business skill development for secure and profitable ventures. • Key Initiatives: Ongoing projects include a financial education program with SOS Children’s Village and SME-focused initiatives in partnership with the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB).