Lanka, Canada trade ties make headway

Canada-Sri Lanka trade relationship is progressing well with more opportunities created due to political stability and a peaceful environment in the country.

“Trade relations between the two countries have grown over the years although there is still room for improvement. The bulk of the exports from Sri Lanka to Canada are woven apparels and wheat constitutes a substantial segment of Canadian exports to Sri Lanka,” Canadian High Commissioner Bruce Levy said.

“With the end of terrorism and the increase in tourist arrivals, the confidence of the international investor community in Sri Lanka will rise”.

“There will be significant opportunities for investors who wish to invest and conduct business in all parts of the country but especially in the former war-afflicted regions. Of course, government policies, transparency and good governance will also be factors contributing to investor confidence,” he said.

Canada has considerable strength in the major sectors of interest to Sri Lanka. “We will continue to look at improving our market presence in wheat and lentils but major infrastructure, ICT, renewables and air, rail and road transport are also all prime areas for Canadian expertise,” he said.

Canada will extend its support in the field of education and assist Sri Lanka to improve the level of education in keeping with the changing global environment, Assistant Deputy Minister (Asia and Africa) and Canada’s Chief Trade Commissioner Ken Sunquist said.

Canada will assist in building the post conflict phase of Sri Lanka to achieve economic growth and sustainability.

The Canada-Sri Lanka Alumni Association was launched on Monday to build a network among students who had their education in Canada.

This initiative hopes to enhance opportunities for more Sri Lankans to be educated in Canadian universities in future.

SJ