By The Pulseline News Desk
The Government plans to establish a dedicated investment promotion company staffed by foreign investment professionals and operating outside conventional public sector salary structures, as part of a broader push to attract foreign capital and strengthen Sri Lanka’s competitiveness.
Presenting the 2027 Budget in Parliament today (12), President Anura Kumara Dissanayake announced that the proposed company would function as a subsidiary of the Government but would have the flexibility to recruit skilled professionals with experience in attracting and managing foreign investments.
The remuneration of these professionals would be linked to the scale of investments targeted, allowing the company to offer compensation beyond the salary structures applicable to the traditional public sector.
The initiative is aimed at strengthening Sri Lanka’s capacity to compete with other investment destinations by developing a specialised team capable of identifying investment opportunities and attracting international investors.
As part of efforts to improve the business environment, the Government has also allocated funds to establish a single-window system for importers and exporters, with the objective of simplifying trade-related procedures and reducing administrative delays.
The President further announced that an Investor Protection Bill would soon be presented to Parliament, while amendments to the Colombo Port City Economic Commission Act are planned to make the special economic zone more attractive to foreign investors.
On the trade front, the Government intends to pursue new trade agreements with foreign countries to expand market access and strengthen Sri Lanka’s international economic relationships.
In addition, Rs. 3,430 million has been allocated for the Sri Lanka-Europe Economic and Trade Cooperation Programme, reflecting the Government’s intention to deepen economic and commercial engagement with European partners.
The proposed investment promotion company, investor protection legislation and trade facilitation measures form part of a broader strategy under the 2027 Budget to improve the investment climate, attract foreign direct investment and expand Sri Lanka’s participation in international trade.
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