Industrial sector must target 35% of GDP

Minister Rishad Bathiudeen launching the inaugural issue of 'Karmaantha - Vaanija Kirula', a monthly publication of the Ministry of Industry and Commerce said that the industrial sector must target 35 percent of the country's GDP by 2015 with focused strategies driven on a public-private partnerhip agreement.

He was commenting on the 10 man committee report that was presented by the Task Force appointed by the Minister to fast track the development of the industrial sector.

Minister Bathiudeen presented the first copy to Senior Presidential Advisor and Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa at a ceremony at the Economic Development Ministry.

'Kirula' (crown) embodies the importance of industry and commerce in the uplift of the national economy through a sustainable growth driven plan as envisaged in the 'Mahinda Chintana'.

Through the offices of the Trade Counsellors in our overseas mission, details of our local products and services will be highlighted and new markets identified.

Under the guidance of Minister Basil Rajapaksa, Sri Lanka is on the fast track to an unprecedented economic boom.

Economic prosperity results in enriched lifestyles, improved living conditions, better education, health and less dependence on foreign resources.

We are on the threshold of achieving these and the input of all citizens is the need of the hour.

Minister Bathiudeen has called upon his Ministry officials, from the heads of departments to commerce representatives posted worldwide, to chip in with their contribution and work towards achieving the national goal.

Regular progress reports are called from all units under the ministry and achievements highlighted.

'Kirula' will provide the latest information on investment opportunities islandwide, facilitate overseas business contacts for exporters, and open up markets for our local products and services in international trade circles. It will provide information about current trade events and activities both local and overseas focusing on issues of economic, cultural and technological importance.

It will also provide up to-date information on the Ministry's programs and initiatives to develop the country's trade and industrial sectors, disseminate important information to prospective foreign investors, monitor performance and assist local exporters to reach global markets and will be a quarterly publication.

The Ministry of Industry and Commerce also publishes a monthly tri-lingual publication 'Mansala'.

The publications are on the Ministry website www.industry.gov.lk.