A business delegation led by the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce’s Sri Lanka–Australia–New Zealand Business Council (SLANZBC) has opened new avenues for trade, investment and institutional collaboration between Sri Lanka and Australia, following a series of high-level engagements across Canberra, Melbourne and Sydney.

The delegation was organised in collaboration with the High Commission of Sri Lanka in Australia and brought together representatives from key sectors including technology and artificial intelligence, marketing technology, venture capital, fisheries and logistics. The visit focused on identifying opportunities for stronger commercial partnerships and expanding business networks between the two countries.

Strengthening Government and Trade-Level Engagement

In Canberra, the delegation held discussions with Australian Federal parliamentarians, including Hon. Cassandra Fernando MP, Chair of the Australia–Sri Lanka Parliamentary Friendship Group. Meetings were also conducted with representatives from Austrade, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), and the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The discussions explored Australia’s current trade priorities, Sri Lanka’s emerging business capabilities and the potential role of the Sri Lankan diaspora and established commercial networks in facilitating greater bilateral trade and investment.

The possibility of organising a reciprocal trade mission was also discussed, creating a potential pathway for Australian business representatives to explore opportunities in Sri Lanka.

Exploring Investment Opportunities in Melbourne

The delegation’s Melbourne programme included engagements with Global Victoria, Invest Victoria, the Food and Beverage Association and the Australia Sri Lanka Business Council.

Discussions covered a broad range of areas, including trade and investment, food and beverage, technology and other sectors with potential for commercial cooperation. A networking cocktail event further enabled delegates to interact with members of the Australian business community and explore potential partnerships and investment opportunities.

Expanding Business Networks in Sydney

In Sydney, the delegation participated in a networking session organised in collaboration with the Chartered Accountants in Sri Lanka – Australia Chapter.

The event brought together members of both the Sri Lankan and Australian business communities, providing delegates with an opportunity to strengthen professional relationships, exchange insights and identify areas for future collaboration.

Building a Stronger Platform for Bilateral Cooperation

Commenting on the visit, SLANZBC President Mr. Chandana Amaradasa highlighted the importance of reconnecting with Australia’s government and business communities while identifying practical opportunities for continued engagement.

He noted that the discussions provide the SLANZBC with a strong foundation to pursue sector-specific cooperation, reciprocal business missions and deeper commercial connections between Sri Lanka and Australia.

The delegation represents another step towards strengthening bilateral economic relations, creating greater visibility for Sri Lankan businesses in the Australian market and developing new opportunities for trade, investment and long-term business partnerships.