Dhammika Fernando re-elected as FTZMA Chairman; lists key suggestions of private sector

Free Trade Zone Manufacturers Association conducted its 44th Annual General Meeting at Barnes, Jetwing Colombo Seven on 28 March with Tropical Finding Ltd., Director Dhammika Fernando re-elected as the Chairman and Filotex Lanka Ltd. Director M.H.Z.M. Marzook was elected as the new General Secretary for the period 2025/2026.

ATG Ceylon Ltd. Managing Director Fazal Abdeen and Screenline Holdings Ltd., Director Nishantha Bakmeege were elected as the Vice Chairmen Lalan Rubbers Ltd., CEO Manjula Mahadanaarchchi was re-elected as the Honorary Treasurer.

Foreign Affairs and Tourism Minister Vijitha Herath was the Chief Guest at the AGM while Japanese Embassy Economic Cooperation Head Kenji OHASHI and Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO) Sri Lanka Representative Hiroki Oi were the Guests of Honour.

FTZMA is the leading Association representing the foreign direct investors of all the export processing zones in Sri Lanka. Since it commenced its operation from Katunayake Free Trade Zone over 41 years ago, the Association has been representing the foreign direct investments, expanding their presence to all Free Trade Zones and outside the BOI zones in Sri Lanka. The uniqueness of FTZMA is that it represents all trades including the apparel industry.

Having been re-elected as the Chairman Dhammika Fernando made his welcome speech for the post-business session. He stated that tonight, we gather not only as industry stakeholders and investors but also as visionaries, united by the common purpose of forging a modern export trade ecosystem in Sri Lanka—one defined by transparency, efficiency, and global interconnectivity.

Embracing opportunities for future facilitation

While we review the significant accomplishments of the past year, our focus now turns to building an infrastructure that propels us forward. To fully unleash Sri Lanka’s potential as a thriving export hub, decisive Government action is essential. We must embrace reforms that streamline our trade environment and invite greater international collaboration.

nShipping liberalisation:

At the foundation of global commerce lies efficient shipping. Liberalising our shipping policies is necessary to dismantle outdated regulatory barriers and ensure that our logistics systems are capable of supporting rapid, seamless trade across borders. This reform is not merely regulatory—it’s about fostering stronger regional connectivity that accelerates the movement of goods and ideas.

nRealising the promise of single window facilitation:

For too long, the concept of a single window facilitation system—where all trade procedures and clearances are integrated under one roof—has been a vision rather than a reality. It is time to translate this promise into practice. A fully operational single window system will reduce bureaucratic delays, ensure greater transparency, and dramatically simplify compliance for businesses, thereby opening new avenues for trade and investment.

nInvestor and expatriate facilitation:

Our future growth depends significantly on our ability to attract global capital and leverage the expertise of our expatriate community. Simplified investment procedures, targeted incentives, and robust support frameworks for our international partners will ensure that our trade sector remains competitive on the global stage. These measures are vital for creating a welcoming environment that sparks innovation and sustainable economic progress.

Reciprocal visa free travel facilities for enhanced regional and global connectivity:

In our increasingly interconnected world, the facilitation of easy and unhindered travel is imperative for true economic integration. Accordingly, I call for establishing a reciprocal visa free travel facility with our immediate neighbour, India, as well as with other key trading partners such as Singapore and the United Arab Emirates. Such an arrangement would enable investors, business travellers, and expatriates to move swiftly and securely between our nations, deepening economic ties and fostering mutual growth. With the esteemed presence of our Foreign Minister as today’s chief guest, we have an unparalleled opportunity to position this initiative at the forefront of our reform agenda.

Paving the road ahead:

Beyond these key reforms, we envision a future where full digitalization and a rigorous commitment to eradicating bureaucratic corruption undergird all aspects of our trade infrastructure. Such sweeping changes are the building blocks of an export ecosystem that is agile, transparent, and ready to meet the demands of the global marketplace.

• A call for collaborative 

progress:

Our association stands ready to work in close partnership with Government agencies, industry bodies, and international stakeholders to turn these initiatives into reality. Though challenges undoubtedly lie ahead, the potential for progress is vast. By embracing shipping liberalisation, actualising single window facilitation, enabling investor and expatriate support, and instituting reciprocal visa free travel facilities, we can firmly cement Sri Lanka’s reputation as a forward-looking, dynamic export hub.

He thanked all attendees for their commitment to progress and invited them to share ideas to be the catalyst for transformative change—one that positions our nation advantageously on the global stage.

The Platinum Sponsor of the FTZMA AGM was Nations Trust Bank, and Gold sponsors were Avantex Solutions, FEDEX, and Asante.