Ensuring Stability In A Changing Environment

The Business Today TOP 30, 2017-2018 reflects the steady growth of the corporate sector amidst global challenges and a changing Sri Lankan political and economic environment.

Economic growth of a country is dependent on political stability. The two are inherently linked. While each Government has different strategies and economic policies, the goal is the same; enabling growth, providing opportunities and enhancing the quality of life of the people.

Strengthening of industries, services, agriculture, innovation, high productivity and enabling positive movement within the economy through prudent policies would result in growth. Just as political stability is essential for a strong economy it is also important that the private sector and Government perform their respective roles without overlapping each other. Attracting FDI’s of quality that would add value and enhance the country’s prospects will be required.

The global economy, especially changes in the US economy, affects all developing countries including Sri Lanka. Thus, as a country we need to understand that all challenges are not created within, but that the external environment too has to be considered. Therefore, it is of paramount importance to ensure that the country’s economic fundamentals are in place to weather the global storms. Perseverance is key as Sri Lanka embarks on a new economic journey. The bright future we all envisage should be within a transparent environment of good governance and adherence to the rule of law. We cannot expect the Government alone to provide everything for our lives to be of comfort. It is time for Sri Lankans to showcase their entrepreneurial and resilient spirit that enabled great feats by our forefathers.

We Congratulate The Business Today TOP 30, 2017–2018 For Their Steady Excellent Performance And The Individuals Receiving Special Recognition For Their Confidence In The Country.

As President Maithripala Sirisena explained in his interview with Business Today, October 2018, “Our aim now is to work towards developing a strong economy with a focus on the balance of payments. We need to strengthen our exports while reducing our dependence on imports where possible. When the export of Sri Lankan produced goods to the international market is increased, we strengthen our foreign reserves. As a result, it is important to uplift the agricultural sector of the country. This has been and continues to be one of our key development priorities.”

An environment of peace and freedom has been achieved where all sections of society can live freely. It is essential as the President explains in his interview with Business Today, October 2018, that the people must first learn to enjoy the freedom that they have. It is essential that we respect all sections of society as we forge ahead. Respect for each other, has always been a key characteristic of Sri Lankan society. And, as we continue to grow and develop, as a country we should not forget the basics of our culture. It is time for all to come together for the betterment of the country. While Governments and economic policies may change, the aim of all as mentioned before are the same. Therefore, we should all journey together as one. In such an environment there are ample ways to grow. And, as a country we must utilise these opportunities for the benefit of the nation.

It is not only public listed corporates that have contributed to the economy, there are individuals who have remained confident, and have continuously maintained their support to the country. There are others who have secured foreign investment for projects and those who have created a Sri Lankan brand and taken it global. It is for this reason that Business Today gives Special Recognition to selected individuals this year. These individuals do not hold leadership positions in the Business Today TOP 30 corporates.

As Sri Lanka moves forward as a global player, it is time for us to face reality and display our resilient spirit as a country. The private sector has a major role to play and the Business Today TOP 30 being the leaders of corporate Sri Lanka have a massive responsibility.

We congratulate the Business Today TOP 30, 2017-2018 for their steady excellent performance and the individuals receiving Special Recognition for their confidence in the country. It is our hope that as the Sri Lankan economy continues to grow amidst challenges, that they too will embrace the opportunities and of course, face the competition as true giants. It is the right time to journey forward.

The Business Today TOP 30 is based on published information of companies listed in the Colombo Stock Exchange and social considerations. The companies have been selected on the basis of their performance recorded during the financial year ending December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 with the assistance of KPMG Sri Lanka.