Sri Lanka’s recent macroeconomic stabilisation marks an important milestone in the country’s recovery, but it will not automatically bring the long term investment required for sustained economic growth, AIA Group Chairman Sir Mark Tucker said yesterday.

Delivering the keynote address at the Chairman and CEOs Forum organised by the Sri Lanka Institute of Directors (SLID) at Port City Colombo, Tucker emphasised that the country must now move beyond crisis management and focus on building strong economic capabilities to attract global capital.

“Sri Lanka has done the hard work that has led to stabilisation. But stabilisation alone will not bring capital back,” he said, adding that the next stage of growth will depend on strengthening the country’s institutional and economic capabilities.

Tucker noted that long term growth would require reconnecting Sri Lanka with large pools of private capital at a time when global competition for investment is intensifying. He stressed that investors seek credible reforms, policy stability and transparent governance before committing significant funds.

He also highlighted the importance of reviewing policies related to taxation, labour markets, land use and foreign investment to ensure they support long term economic planning.

In addition, Tucker called for deeper domestic capital markets, modern financial infrastructure and stronger public private partnerships to mobilise funds for infrastructure, energy and sustainable development projects.

He pointed out that Sri Lanka’s strategic location, skilled workforce and cost advantages offer strong potential within the evolving Asian trade landscape. However, sustained collaboration between Government and the private sector will be essential to unlock these opportunities.

According to Tucker, trust, consistent policies and strong governance will ultimately determine whether global investors choose Sri Lanka as a destination for long term capital.