First woman CEO and Secy Gen of CCC says:

Govt-private sector dialogue vital for economic advancement

by Sanjeevi Jayasuriya

The first woman CEO and Secretary General of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce (CCC), Dhara Wijayatilake says continuous dialogue between the government and the private sector is essential for economic advancement.

"As the main business chamber in the country we have a continuous dialogue with the government. It is very important for the Chamber and the private sector as the sector plays a very important role when it comes to interaction," Wijayatilake said in an interview.

Guided by the 10 principles to transform Sri Lanka's economy, the CCC will proactively participate in socio-economic development which is the centre stage of its progress.

The principles of the Ceylon Chamber include good governance, policy stability and regulatory quality, national integration, harmony and inclusiveness, a market-oriented and private sector-led economy based on competitiveness driven by exports, forging mutually beneficial trade agreements, a strong and thriving Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) sector, bridging regional growth disparities through business, attracting quality Foreign Direct Investments and making Sri Lanka the preferred investment destination, sustainable and development-focused technology advancement and innovation, demand focused education and skills development.

Excerpts

Q: How could the Chamber and the government work together?

A: The CCC always works with the government and has a cordial relationship of working together. It has a two-way approach, one expressing our views at policy making and the other to intervene on behalf of our members. We work with the government and forward our sectoral issues. We stand out as a component in the decision-making process. The Chamber does consultation, presenting views and intervening on behalf of members during these working sessions. The formulation of the Budget is carried out with private sector consultation where the Chamber acts as a voice for its members.

Q: Sri Lanka's export sector is on a downward trend. What are your views?

A: There are many reasons for the downward trend in export earnings for the past one or two years. There were different challenges over the past year or so. Some of our markets had geo-political issues which contributed to economic issues. The EU ban on fish exports had an impact, though it will be lifted soon. Some of these issues can be resolved by our action, but some are beyond our control. One way of overcoming this problem is to concentrate on key exports. It is also necessary to diversify the product basket and markets. It is important that all these steps be reflected in the national policy. However, the tourism sector has improved. There is a prominent service sector in exports and it has huge potential. It is also necessary to collect statistics accurately as all those who arrive in the country could not be regarded as tourists.

Q: What are the pressing needs of the economy at present?

A: It is essential to have a comprehensive policy and efficient management where policy and plans play a vital role. The growth of the export sector will largely depend on clear policy stability and communication from the government of its economic policy has to be clear and precise. It is also necessary to have fiscal consolidation and strategic trade policies to move forward.

Q: Have women's contributions to the growth of the economy been recognised by the government?

A: Women have contributed in different sectors. They play an important role at home and in society. The government has in place a non-discriminatory policy and gender discrimination could be challenged and redress obtained from the Supreme Court. There is an influx of women to the public service where many of them take to executive positions. However, this should be according to merit and seniority. Gender has not been an issue when it comes to promotions. Even though many women completed secondary education and university entrance, when it comes to employment there is an issue. The rate of unemployment among women is higher. This is where some intervention is necessary. However, the highest rate of employment is among educated women.

Q: Could you outline the challenges you faced when accepting a role at the helm of the CCC?

A: As the first woman to head a Chamber - the oldest in the country - it was never a challenge in terms of gender. Before, accepting the role at the CCC, I was the first woman Secretary to the Ministry of Law Enforcement. I do not see this as a challenge as education, abilities and potential to lead will take women places. There are many women in the political arena but not on corporate boards. With time this situation will change. Anyway it was never a challenge although I am a woman and for me gender has not been an issue to succeed professionally.