Sri Lanka and Thailand are poised to strengthen bilateral trade, investment and economic cooperation by leveraging the recently concluded Sri Lanka–Thailand Free Trade Agreement (SLTFTA), enhanced private-sector engagement and their strategic positions as gateways to South and Southeast Asia.
The renewed commitment was highlighted during the Silver Jubilee celebrations of the Sri Lanka–Thailand Business Council, which marked 25 years of fostering commercial ties between the two nations.
Addressing the gathering, Thailand’s Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Paitoon Mahapannaporn, noted that bilateral trade between the two countries has grown significantly in recent years, recording an increase of approximately 48 per cent. He highlighted major investments such as Thailand’s INSEE Cement and Sri Lanka’s Hayleys Group as examples of the deepening economic relationship.
The Ambassador emphasised that stronger business-to-business engagement remains essential to unlocking the full potential of bilateral trade. He stressed the importance of trade missions, business forums, networking platforms and corporate site visits in building trust, confidence and long-term commercial partnerships.
To further strengthen ties, the Royal Thai Embassy facilitated a 27-member Thai business delegation to Sri Lanka, enabling business forums, matchmaking sessions and industry visits.
Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Minister Vijitha Herath reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to expanding economic, cultural and commercial relations with Thailand. He identified trade, tourism, transport, logistics, technology and sustainable development as key sectors for future collaboration.
Sri Lanka–Thailand Business Council President Rizan Nazeer highlighted opportunities across tourism and hospitality, food processing, agriculture, logistics, gems and jewellery, apparel, rubber-based products, technology, education, wellness and professional services.
Speakers noted that the SLTFTA is expected to accelerate trade, investment and regional supply chain integration, while strengthening both countries’ positions within Asian and global value chains. The event concluded with a collective call for deeper economic integration, stronger regional connectivity and enhanced business cooperation between Sri Lanka and Thailand.
