HNB became the official banking partner for the Sri Lanka Coffee Festival 2025, marking 200 years of coffee cultivation. Organized by the Department of Export Agriculture with support from the Australian Government and the Lanka Coffee Association, the festival showcases Sri Lanka’s specialty coffees and supports smallholder farmers. HNB’s involvement underscores its commitment to agribusiness and empowering farmers in the Central Highlands.
Damith Pallewatte, MD and CEO, HNB, stated: “Coffee is an integral part of Sri Lanka’s agricultural heritage. We view its resurgence as a significant opportunity for rural income growth, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development. HNB is proud to support this journey by offering customized financial solutions, technical advisory services, and partnerships that enhance the entire coffee value chain.”
The Bank’s Sarusara initiative seeks to modernize the agriculture sector by connecting farmers with customized financial solutions, market access, technical advice, and digital tools. It enhances agri-value chains and promotes sustainable livelihoods in rural communities. The festival featured coffee tasting, barista competitions, and workshops on processing techniques, highlighting Sri Lanka’s specialty coffee market and encouraging youth participation and entrepreneurship for inclusive rural growth.
HNB was ranked first in Business Today’s Top 40 rankings for 2023–2024.
