Sri Lanka has achieved an export income of $9 billion in the first six months of 2024, according to State Minister for Investment Promotion, Dilum Amunugama. Announcing the milestone at a press briefing on August 21, Amunugama also said that the country secured investment agreements worth approximately $800 million during the same period.
The State Minister highlighted the role of the Board of Investment (BOI) in managing 15 investment zones, which host 1,575 companies and employ over 500,000 people. Under a new government initiative, seven additional investment zones are planned in various regions, including Trincomalee and Hambantota. The government aims to secure $1 billion in investment deals this year, with $800 million already achieved.
Amunugama also mentioned that 35 investment projects have been finalized, and a joint Canadian-Sri Lankan initiative is set to develop the Kankasanthurai Investment Zone. Further efforts to boost export income include the launch of 27 "Export Promotion" projects and the development of an e-commerce platform.
In the Colombo Port City, 46 out of 118 land plots have been allocated, with 21 organizations approved to establish businesses. Additionally, plans are underway to develop the Pelwatte Sugar Factory.