Ceylon Chamber of Commerce Archives

April 25, 2024

‘Code Red – Climate Risks and Opportunities for Sri Lankan Businesses’

The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce proudly presents the inaugural Sri Lanka Climate Summit 2024, themed “Code Red: Climate Risks and Opportunities for Sri Lankan Businesses,” from May 7-9 at the Shangri La Hotel, Colombo.

As scientists warn of the potentially devastating consequences of accelerating climate change, the Summit will serve as a platform for a national dialogue on the impending risks of climate change, and the opportunities presented to Sri Lankan businesses.

As the Chief Guest, President Ranil Wickremesinghe will address the Summit’s inauguration, setting the context for the deliberations and discussions that will follow.

Over three days, an impressive line-up of national and international leaders of the climate action charge will explore climate risks and opportunities, the facilitation required to mitigate risks and successfully leverage growth opportunities, and proactive policy measures to ensure Sri Lankan businesses are well-positioned to thrive in a world increasingly focused on decarbonisation.

Speakers include Dr. Arunabha Ghosh – CEO Council for Energy & Water, Prof Ashok Jhunjhunwala, President IIT Madras Research Park, Mr. Dhruba Purkayastha – India Director, Climate Policy Initiative, Dr. Lalanath De Silva – Managing Director, Transparentem & Panel Member, Independent Complaints Mechanism of the International Climate Initiative (IKI-Germany), Ms. Azusa Kubota – UNDP Resident Representative in Sri Lanka, Ms. Kusum Athukorala – Regional Chair – Global Water Partnership South Asia, Dr. Sonali Senaratna Sellamuttu – Country Representative, Global Green Growth Institute, Mr. Rohan Pethiyagoda – Biodiversity Scientist, Mr. Thilan Wijesinghe – Chairman, TWCorp Ltd. and Sapphirus Lanka Ltd., Mr. Gehan de Silva Wijeyeratne – Naturalist and Conservationist, and a host of other industry specialists.

The Summit’s agenda encompasses a range of topics, from understanding climate science and the risks and opportunities to businesses, the global and local impact of the climate crisis, climate adaptation and resilience, decarbonisation and climate financing mechanisms. The event promises a comprehensive dialogue among stakeholders, consolidating key insights and takeaways into an implementable Climate Action Plan that is envisaged to drive Sri Lanka’s green and just economic transition.

For inquiries and registration, please contact Niroshini on 0115588852/niroshini@chamber.lk or Shanuka on 0115588892/events.division@chamber.lk, or visit http://slcs.chamber.lk/

April 1, 2024

Solidifying their position as one of the nation’s leaders in sustainability, good governance and corporate excellence, Sri Lanka’s leading private sector bank HNB PLC was once again honored at the prestigious Ceylon Chamber of Commerce Best Corporate Citizen Sustainability Awards 2023.

The bank was ranked among the Top 10 Best Corporate Citizens for fourteen consecutive years, a testament to its enduring commitment to excellence in a highly competitive landscape. Moreover, throughout this period the Bank was recognized for various awards under 11 other categories at the most anticipated event in the corporate calendar.

“We are profoundly honored to have Hatton National Bank (HNB) recognized among the Top 10 Best Corporate Citizens for 2023. This accolade is a testament not only to our unwavering commitment to service excellence but also to our resilience in facing the challenges of our times.

“At HNB, we believe in going above and beyond to support our customers, providing them with unparalleled service and innovative solutions that meet their evolving needs. Our journey towards sustainability and corporate responsibility is ongoing, and this recognition fuels our drive to continue making a positive impact in the communities we serve. We pledge to uphold our promise of delivering the best services, fostering a culture of excellence and integrity, and contributing towards a sustainable future for all. To our valued customers, partners, and employees, this achievement belongs to you. Together, we are building a stronger, more sustainable world,” Damith Pallewatte, Deputy General Manager- Wholesale Banking Group

The Bank’s dedication to sustainability was showcased through a significant Green Pledge undertaken by all of its employees, committing to not only sustainable practices but also a shift in mindset with view to a sustainable future to all. Boasting a Total Green Finance Portfolio 49.5 Bn LKR as of the 30th September 2023, the Bank has also been officially certified Carbon Neutral by the Sri Lanka Climate Fund (SLCF), implemented a Green Procurement Process, and initiated and maintains several projects across their Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) framework.

As Sri Lanka’s largest private sector retail bank, HNB has remained unwavering in its dedication to the nation’s growth. Globally and locally recognized for its excellence, the bank was awarded the esteemed title of “Sri Lanka’s Best Corporate Citizen” for 2022 by the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce. Other major accolades include being adjudged the “Best Retail Bank in Sri Lanka” for the 13^th occasion by the Asian Banker, being declared the “Best SME Bank” by Asiamoney Magazine, as well as securing a Top 5 position on Business Today’s Top 40 rankings for 2023.

HNB was ranked among Sri Lanka’s Top 10 Most Admired companies in 2022 by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and Chartered Institute of Management Accountants and the International Chamber of Commerce Sri Lanka. HNB was also recognized for its service excellence in trade services at the Euromoney Awards, taking home the prestigious titles of Best Market Leader in Trade Finance Services and Best Services Provider in Trade Finance Services, both globally and domestically.

August 23, 2023

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The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce and the International Labour Organization join forces to promote youth entrepreneurship in Sri Lanka

‘SPARK’- a national competition for Sri Lanka’s next generation of entrepreneurs celebrated the grand finale on 21^st August, coinciding with World Entrepreneurship Day. The much-awaited event saw the country’s most promising innovators, problem solvers, thinkers, and creators aged 15-24 showcase their transformative ideas and vie for the SPARK 2023 Award.

Mihindi Minupama Bandara, the winner of SPARK 2023, expressing her thoughts said ‘I’m really excited and honoured about winning the SPARK competition. It gives young entrepreneurs like me a platform to share our ideas, receive guidance, improve our skills, and learn so much! I want to thank the organizers for this opportunity, and look forward to more events like this in the future’

With over 400 applications received from across the country, the top 5 contestants pitched their business ideas to a panel of judges made up of Ms. Deepa Liyanage, Additional Secretary to the Prime Minister, Dr Gehan de Soysa, Chairman and CEO – ThreadWorks, Ms. Kasturi Chellaraja Wilson, Group CEO / Executive Director – Hemas Holdings PLC, Prof. Kalingamudali, Dean, Faculty of Science, University of Kelaniya, Mr. Samantha Ranatunga · Director / CEO – Remedium One, Prof. Wanninayake, Dean, Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies, University of Kelaniya, and Ms. Rakshieka Nedumaran – Specialist, Sustainability Execution) Dialog Axiata PLC.

Implemented in partnership with several ecosystem players, setting SPARK apart from other competitions is its focus on connecting with youth from school level, as well as commitment to fostering participants’ growth and entrepreneurial mindset. Leading up to the finale, SPARK engaged with the initial cohort of 100 plus shortlisted contestants through a series of virtual training sessions. This was followed by an intensive 2-day residential bootcamp for the top 35 contestants.

‘Going beyond celebrating Sri Lanka’s youth entrepreneurs, SPARK aims to create a shift in the entrepreneurial ecosystem, through the competition, by establishing entrepreneurial clubs in schools, and creating a pool of mentors and trainers. It’s a ripple effect that we hope will contribute to transformation amongst youth, educators, parents, policy makers, and private sector to see entrepreneurship as a viable career option, and entrepreneurial skills as essential for the advancement of our youth, and for Sri Lanka,’ said Thomas Kring, Chief Technical Advisor, ILO Country Office for Sri Lanka and the Maldives.

The Chairman of The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, Duminda Hulangamuwa said ‘the SPARK competition has provided a platform for youth entrepreneurship and innovation and created an ecosystem of support that will continue to thrive beyond this event. The Ceylon Chamber is committed to establishing SPARK as an annual event, ensuring that our nation’s aspiring young entrepreneurs have a platform to shine, grow, and succeed.

Entrepreneurship disrupts the status-quo, injecting new thinking, pre-empting solutions, and paving the way for constant change. When combined with the creativity, drive, and skills of young people, it creates a formidable force that can pave the way for a better future.

The SPARK: Youth Entrepreneurship Competition 2023 is an initiative of the ILO’s South Asia Leadership in Entrepreneurship (SALE) programme, of which the Ceylon Chamber is the implementing partner. Through strategic interventions such as SPARK, ILO’s SALE programme, funded by the U.S Department of State is endeavouring to boost young people’s transition into the entrepreneurial world and create a shift in the entrepreneurial ecosystems.

August 18, 2023

The two-day residential SPARK bootcamp organized by the International Labour Organization, in collaboration with the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, on 7th and 8th August offered a transformational experience to the competitions top 35 contestants,redefining entrepreneurship training through an innovative and interactive approach.

SPARK aims to ignite the entrepreneurial spirit among youth innovators, disruptors, thinkers, problem-solvers, and creators between the ages of 15 and 24. Following a vast number of applications submitted by aspiring young entrepreneurs from across the country, 105 shortlisted contestants received virtual trainings on key topics related to entrepreneurship, after which they submitted business proposals. An evaluation and screening process identified the top 35 contenders who will vie for a place at the grand finale on August 21st. The innovative bootcamp delivered a comprehensive curriculum encompassing business planning, dynamic marketing strategies, and effective pitching techniques, with participants honing their skills through interactive and collaborative exercises, fostering a nurturing environment for learning and growth. Participants also had the opportunity to hear from industry-leading entrepreneurs including Shalin Balasuriya, co-founder and CEO of SPA Ceylon, as well as Achala Samaradiwakara, co-founder Good Market, enhance their business ideas with one-on-one mentoring sessions with experts and business consultants.

“The Spark Boot Camp provided me with useful resources and advice that I can draw upon to refine my business idea and create a successful business plan. I collaborated with other participants and learnt from their thoughtful and direct feedback” said an enthusiastic participant. “The educational sessions gave me valuable insights into the entrepreneurial process, and the exercises fostered collaboration and creative problem-solving. Overall, the workshop was very helpful and gave me the tools I needed to pursue my business ambitions” was what another young mind felt about the workshop.

A Network with seasoned industry experts and fellow aspiring entrepreneurs, forging connections that will facilitate their path to success. Facilitated by knowledge partners including UNDP HackaDev and Citra Lab, and technology partners, Dialog ideamart and Marketplace,SPARKfocusedon emerginggame-changers,armingthemwithinnovativetools to build sustainable start-ups.

SPARK is a flagship initiative of the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) South Asia Leadership in Entrepreneurship (SALE) programme, of which the Ceylon Chamber is the implementing partner. Through strategic interventions such as SPARK, ILO’s SALE programme, funded by the U.S Department of State is endeavouring to boost young people’s transition into the entrepreneurial world and create a shift in the entrepreneurial ecosystems.

July 13, 2023

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The Scale-Up Shop, an initiative aimed at fostering innovation in the Sri Lankan manufacturing and export sector, is thrilled to announce the opening of applications for its transformative program. The Scale-Up Shop is carried out as part of the ‘Support to Small and Medium Enterprises in the Organic Agriculture Sector’ Programme jointly co-financed by the European Union (EU) and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) implemented by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit GmbH (GIZ) in collaboration with the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, Dilmah Tea and National Innovation Agency (NIA).

The Scale-Up Shop represents a groundbreaking opportunity for Sri Lankan food and agri innovators to collaborate, build new partnerships, and expand the country’s footprint in global markets. By providing targeted training, mentorship, and access to potential investors, the program aims to equip innovators with the skills and support necessary to become investor-ready. This will propel their innovations to new heights, attracting vital funding for their exceptional intellectual property and setting the stage for their future success in the market.

One of the program’s highlights is the highly anticipated Demo Day in September, which will serve as the culmination of the innovators’ journey. During this exciting event, participants will have the opportunity to showcase their exceptional products, captivate the audience, and secure vital funding for their intellectual property. Demo Day is expected to attract a diverse range of investors, industry leaders, and stakeholders, providing an invaluable platform for innovators to showcase their talents and make meaningful connections.

Food and Agri innovators and entrepreneurs with a focus on product innovation and market expansion, are encouraged to apply. The program is particularly interested in initiatives that demonstrate high growth potential and contribute to sustainable development.

To apply for The Scale-Up Shop program and for more information, visit https://www.thescaleupshop.com/ or contact info@thescaleupshop.com. The application deadline is 23rd of July 2023.

June 30, 2023

Samsung Sri Lanka, the country’s no. 1 electronics brand, in collaboration with the esteemed Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, successfully concluded an insightful webinar titled “A Smart Consumer”. This engaging virtual event, held on the 23^rd of June, 2023, aimed to empower consumers with the knowledge and insights necessary to make informed decisions when purchasing essential and other items, particularly in light of the current economic uncertainties.

The webinar featured renowned industry experts such as Singer Sri Lanka, CEO – Mahesh Wijewardene, Softlogic Sri Lanka, Executive Director – Ranjan Perera, Samsung Sri Lanka, Head of MX (Mobile) Division – Thushara Rathnaweera and was moderated by Clootrack Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Pakistan, President – Dr. Rohantha Athukorala. Together, the seasoned speakers were able to provide insights on various aspects of smart consumerism, providing attendees with a comprehensive understanding of the topic.

Setting the stage for the event, Dr. Rohantha Athukorala, President of Clootrack Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Pakistan, addressed the challenges faced by Sri Lankan consumers due to currency depreciation and economic uncertainty. He emphasized that amidst these challenges, the share of voice among brands has continued to rise, underscoring the critical importance of consumer awareness.

As the first panelist, Mahesh Wijewardene, CEO of Singer Sri Lanka, shed light on the qualities and characteristics of a smart consumer. He emphasized the significance of understanding financial responsibility, affordability, conducting thorough research, making informed decisions, and being well-versed in consumer rights and protections. Wijewardene also stressed the importance of secure shopping policies to ensure a seamless consumer experience and foster trust between brands and customers.

Thushara Rathnaweera, Head of MX (Mobile) Division Sri Lanka, delved into the responsibility of brands in providing genuine products and safeguarding consumers from fraudulent devices. He highlighted the need for brands to offer appropriate warranties, ensuring that consumers are protected from potential harm caused by unauthorized dealers or insecure after-sales services.

Ranjan Perera, Executive Director of Softlogic Sri Lanka, added further thoughts to the webinar by emphasizing the indispensability of essential electronics such as mobile phones and refrigerators in today’s world. He underscored that these items should not be viewed as luxury goods but rather as essential tools for everyday life. Perera acknowledged the challenges faced by consumers in a declining economy, where the cheapest option often becomes the only viable choice. However, he cautioned against the risks associated with purchasing from unauthorized dealers, as this can lead to challenges and investments gone astray.

Through this webinar, Samsung Sri Lanka, as a leader in the consumer electronics industry, reiterated its unwavering commitment to providing genuine warranties for all its electronics, mobile devices, and wearables. The company stressed the importance of purchasing Samsung products exclusively through authorized dealers, emphasizing that this guarantees a seamless and secure customer experience, safeguarding consumers’ investments.

The interactive session concluded with participants gaining invaluable insights into becoming smart consumers and understanding their rights and protections when making informed purchasing decisions. Samsung Sri Lanka and the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce expressed their utmost gratitude to the distinguished speakers and participants for their active engagement and significant contributions, which greatly contributed to the resounding success of the event. Samsung remains at the forefront of cutting-edge technology, offering a wide range of innovative consumer electronics, mobile devices, and wearables. The company is dedicated to delivering products and services that not only enhance the lives of its customers but also uphold the highest standards of quality and customer satisfaction.

In Sri Lanka, Samsung has been recognized as the ‘People’s Youth Choice Brand of the Year’ for four consecutive years by SLIM Sri Lanka’s review of the country’s most valuable brands. As Sri Lanka’s No.1 smartphone brand, Samsung’s customer base in the country spans across all age groups, particularly the Gen Z and Millennial segments.

June 20, 2023

The fourth Annual General Meeting of the All Island Dairy Association (AIDA) was recently held at the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce premises in Colombo. The AIDA which is affiliated with the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, and plays a pivotal role in representing the local dairy industry by fostering agreements, aligning goals, and mobilising the industry. Additionally, the AIDA advocates with policymakers on crucial matters, while also working on streamlining objectives.

The AIDA encourages its wide array of dairy manufacturers and services providers to actively adhere to all industry standards. The AIDA also fosters healthy competition, drives advancement in product and service offerings for the overall betterment of the entire dairy industry.

Mr. Binesh Pannawala, President of AIDA said, “As AIDA successfully executed a diverse range of policy initiatives and knowledge transfer activities through webinars and virtual interactive sessions last year, we expanded our network with the commercial sector and actively contributed to the government’s policy discussions on dairy sector development. Looking back at 2022, our commitment to the sustainable growth of the dairy industry remains unwavering. With favourable policies, economic growth, increased consumer demand, and strong foundational support, we are poised to drive the industry forward.”

The newly appointed office bearers for the year 2023 includes 2^nd year President – Mr. Binesh Pannawala, Watawala Plantations PLC, Producers and Collectors – Mr. Suneth Bandara, Lanka Dairies Pvt Ltd., Manufactures and Processes – Dr. Nelum Vithana, Cargills Ceylon PLC, Importers – Mr. Asoka Bandara, Maliban Group, Service Providers – Mr. Lawrence Chan, Ceylon Agro Industries Limited, and Treasurer – Mr. R.M.K.G Rajapaksha, Hypromac Engineering Services.

The newly appointed Executive Committee for the year 2023 are Dr. Keerthi Gunasekara, Mr. Mohamed Imtiaz, Mr. Saman Perera, Mr. Sanjaya Jayasinghe, Consultant/GM – Mr. A.C.H Munaweera and Secretariat – Ms. Shehara De Silva.

February 22, 2023

Kingslake, Sri Lanka’s leading manufacturing solutions experts, will be hosting a double seminar together with Infor on Wednesday the 1st of March at the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce. Directed at business leaders and industry professionals, the seminars will feature a line-up of expert speakers who will show how to unleash the full potential of businesses – by navigating the challenges of a fast-evolving business landscape and utilising the full potential of specialised software solutions.

The first seminar “Achieving Warehouse Efficiencies and Fluidity in the Face of Uncertainties” commencing at 10.30am, is aimed at warehouse managers, supply chain professionals, and those planning to optimise their warehouse operations. This will give them a unique opportunity to discuss the challenges faced by warehouses today, and also to explore ways to overcome these concerns and achieve increased efficiency and fluidity.

The second seminar “Unleashing the Full Potential of a Modern ERP” is scheduled for a 3.30pm start, and is designed to give businesses a comprehensive overview of how a leading-edge ERP solution can help streamline operations, improve productivity, and drive growth – an excellent opportunity for trade professionals to learn about the capabilities of Infor Syteline ERP and to also hear from experts who have successfully implemented the solution.

Expert panellists from the Infor team, Chorin Osafune – Sales Director for Channel Business at Infor Singapore and Sri Lanka, and Charles Barrett – Supply Chain Specialist with over 14 years of experience in Infor’s warehouse solutions will be leading the presentations. Participants can look forward to a truly illuminating and engaging experience with the combined knowledge and expertise of both Kingslake and Infor.

Register today to join these complimentary seminars by calling Ashweka on 077 3794210, emailing at ashwekav@kingslake.com or using the link below – before February 28, 2023.

The first seminar “Achieving Warehouse Efficiencies and Fluidity in the Face of Uncertainties” – https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfItlO6SqacdtC9BD7U9IKcUMAumKjxHxTwxHTilkDVtT_wdA/viewform

The second seminar “Unleashing the Full Potential of a Modern ERP” – https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeEQmkXr7cmwRkFfKtHpQCgGD-ouh-2m_tjdZ__KBPIAy43HA/viewform

February 13, 2023

The Ambassador of Côte d’Ivoire to Sri Lanka HE Eric Camille N’dry met with the Chairman of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce (CCC) Mr. Vish Govindasamy and the Chamber Secretariat on February 6, 2023.

A Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the CCC and the Côte d’Ivoire Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI-CI) to facilitate the support of trade, commerce and investment between the two countries. Addressing the gathering of a chamber membership present, the Chairman of the CCC Mr. Govindasamy welcomed the ambassador and the team from Côte d’Ivoire and pledged the support of the Chamber to foster business between the members of both Chambers. In the Ambassador’s speech he impressed upon the gathering the positive impression he had gained of Sri Lanka in his short time on the Island.

The Ambassador invited Sri Lankan businesses to consider investment in Côte d Ivoire and via them to reach the rest of the Africa. He went on to explain about the Free Trade Agreements in place between Côte d’Ivoire and the African sub-continent, EU and the US. Agricultural processing, value addition to rubber, tourism and tourism training, construction, IT and AI were identified as areas of potential collaboration.

After the signing of the MOU, detailed business discussions were held with CCC members present. Many members expressed strong interest in establishing trading relationships with the Ivory Coast.

The Commercial Consular for Côte d Ivoire Embassy Mr. Akaffou and the Honorary Consul Mr. Sheran Fernando undertook to initiate a detailed discussion with the businessmen who expressed interest in exploring commercial relationships in the Ivory Coast and undertook to organise trade delegations between both countries within 2023.

January 16, 2023

• Declared Overall Best Corporate Citizen for 2022

• Takes home 5 accolades

• Ranked among the Top 10 Best Corporate Citizens

• Governance category winner

• Sustainability Champion for the Finance sector

• Second runner-up for Demonstrated Resilient Practices for COVID-19 category

Consolidating a legacy of true leadership in sustainability, good governance and corporate excellence, Sri Lanka’s leading private sector bank HNB PLC, secured a resounding victory at the prestigious Ceylon Chamber of Commerce Best Corporate Citizen Sustainability Awards 2022 (CCC BCCSA).

Having been declared Overall Winner of the coveted ‘Best Corporate Citizen Sustainability Award’ for 2022, HNB went on to dominate the BCCSA 2022, securing an additional 4 accolades including being ranked among the Top 10 Best Corporate Citizens – a position which HNB has achieved for 13 years.

“The past three years have challenged our organization, tested the resilience of Sri Lanka’s economy, and the spirit of our people time and again. Yet, in our efforts to achieve our corporate goals, we made a conscious effort to never lose sight of what matters most: our shared values, and our collective responsibility to nurture sustainable growth, particularly at the grassroots of the Sri Lankan economy.

“While there are many more challenges ahead, we remain steadfast in our commitment to continuously drive operational excellence, while extending a helping hand to the communities, lives and livelihoods that we are connected to. We will continue to serve as Sri Lanka’s partner in progress – in good times and bad,” HNB Managing Director/CEO Jonathan Alles said.

HNB was also crowned Sustainability Champion for the Finance Sector in recognition of its systemic national contributions in supporting Sri Lanka’s transition towards renewable energy, and grassroots-led economic development, as well as the multi-pronged environmental and social campaigns led by the HNB Sustainability Foundation.

These included the employee-led flagship HNB Oba Venuwen Api initiative launched in 2020 to support deserving communities across the island. The Hatna family has since supported Sri Lanka’s healthcare sector with essential medicine and medical equipment, in addition to launching a nutrition drive to support 1,000 expectant mothers from disadvantaged communities. HNB further committed to providing a stable financial future for their children by encouraging each mother to open a Singithi Kirikatiyo account with a deposit of Rs. 1,000 provided by the bank.

The Oba Venuwen Api initiative also resulted in the accumulation of a further Rs. 25.1 million which was offered as grants to 251 microfinance customers. The funds ensured the revival of businesses supporting small communities affected by the COVID pandemic and the ongoing economic crisis.

With rising concerns over Sri Lanka’s food security, HNB also initiated its pioneering Saru Ge-Watte campaign, partnering with local farmers in the Central Province, and utilizing the bank’s extensive branch and customer network to create new markets and opportunities for them to sell their produce during the peak of last year’s fuel crisis. Additionally, the bank also provided material support to promote home gardening in urban areas and help enhance regional food security.

Additionally, HNB further strengthened its commitment to environmental conservation by restoring and managing a 2.5-hectare block of degraded rainforest land through Project LIFE, an initiative which the bank has supported for the past 4 years. Similarly, HNB continued to build on novel initiatives like HNB Walk The Talk – promoting eco-friendly commuting among its employees.

Reaffirming the bank’s commitment to sustainability, HNB DGM-Chief Human Resource Officer and Head of the HNB Sustainable Business, L. Chiranthi Cooray, said: “We have always aimed to set the standard for sustainability among Sri Lankan corporates. While our initiatives and campaigns are rooted in supporting environmental and social change among the community and the country at large, we are also focused on creating a sustainable environment for our employees by streamlining our processes and embedding employee well-being into our corporate strategies. I thank our regional and branch leadership for their unwavering support and dedication towards helping disadvantaged communities through our community outreach programme.”

Notably, HNB’s outstanding efforts in keeping staff and customers safe, and its extensive support offered to customers including targeted capital moratoriums and working capital loans for SMEs, efforts and its pivot into sophisticated digital banking products during the pandemic, helped secure HNB’s award in the Demonstrated Resilient Practices for COVID-19 category.

Organised by the CCC for the 19th consecutive year, the awards are designed to showcase Sri Lankan corporates adopting best practices and delivering effective progress on environmental, social and economic sustainability. Evaluated by national experts in sustainability, this year’s awards drew 27 applications – among the largest pool in the BCCSA’s history – including Sri Lanka’s leading corporates.

With 256 customer centres, HNB is one of Sri Lanka’s largest, most technologically innovative private banks. Consolidating its reputation for banking excellence, HNB ranked among the World Top 1,000 Banks list compiled by the prestigious UK-based Banker Magazine for the sixth consecutive year in 2022, in addition to being crowned the Best Retail Bank in Sri Lanka for the 12th occasion at the prestigious International Excellence in Retail Financial Services Awards 2022 hosted by the Asian Banker Magazine.

Older Posts

Ceylon Chamber Presents Sri Lanka Climate Summit 2024

HNB honoured at BCCSA 2023: Ranked among Top 10 Best Corporate Citizens for 14th year

SPARK 2023 Grand Finale Ignites Entrepreneurial Spirit Among Sri Lanka’s Youth

SPARK 2023 Bootcamp Empowers Sri Lanka’s Next Generation of Entrepreneurs

Innovation Takes Center Stage: The Scale-Up Shop Announces Opening of Program Applications

Samsung Sri Lanka Concluded Webinar on Smart Consumerism In Partnership With The Ceylon Chamber Of Commerce

All Island Dairy Association holds 4th Annual General Meeting

Kingslake and Infor to present expert insight on warehouse management and ERP solutions at double seminar on March 1

Ceylon Chamber of Commerce (CCC) and the Chamber of Commerce and industry of CÔTE D’ IVOIRE (CCI-CI) hold fruitful talks

HNB crowned Sri Lanka’s Best Corporate Citizen for 2022