Emerging Asian markets, a strong opportunity for British businesses

"The emerging markets of Asia present strong opportunities for British businesses, whose experience and expertise can be matched with the needs of these markets,’ said British High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, John Rankin in his message to the UK companies at the inauguration of the UK trade mission to Sri Lanka, last week in Colombo. The trade mission saw representatives of 21 British companies eager to explore and discuss further opportunities for trade and investment in Sri Lanka.

The trading relationship between the UK and Sri Lanka is already well established. There are over 100 companies in Sri Lanka with UK affiliation across a wide range of sectors. The year 2013 was a record year for UK plc with business wins of over US $ 3 billion and we are building on that success by organising this trade mission, the High Commissioner said.

“The visiting UK delegates have expressed interest in a wide range of sectors from construction and particularly tourism related infrastructure to education, ICT, insurance, real estate, aviation and maritime,” the message said. The keynote address was delivered by the Deputy Minister for Investment Promotion, Faiszer Musthapha. He outlined Sri Lanka’s strategic position as a gateway to India and the Middle East because of its trade and transport links. He warmly welcomed all the British companies present and encouraged them to “visit Sri Lanka, enjoy its beauty and take a decision to make their next investment here.”