SMEs seen as capable of playing a dynamic role in sustainable growth

Deputy Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Chathuranga Abeysinghe emphasized the pivotal role that small and medium enterprises (SMEs) can play in driving sustainable growth. Speaking at the National SME Forum Scale Up 2.0, Abeysinghe highlighted that access to connections and resources will enable SMEs to become more competitive and market-ready.

The forum, organized by the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, brought together various stakeholders, including policymakers, industry leaders, financial institutions, and business support organizations. Abeysinghe outlined three key areas crucial for SME growth: expanding market access pathways, enhancing competitiveness via standards and certification, and facilitating the shift from mere survival to sustainable expansion.

He assured participants that the forum would provide them with insights into accessing new markets, forging connections with larger businesses, and integrating into both local and global value chains. The event also featured updates from Ceylon Chamber of Commerce Chairperson Krishan Balendra and Secretary General and CEO Shiran Fernando, who discussed the progress made since the launch of Scale Up, including outcomes from the SME survey conducted during the initiative's inception.