The Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, Sunil Handunnetti, has announced that the government will soon implement a national tax policy aimed at resolving tax-related issues faced by industrialists. Additionally, a formal program will be introduced to address longstanding challenges within the local industrial sector.
Minister Handunnetti made these remarks during a special seminar organized by the National Chamber of Commerce to discuss the concerns of local entrepreneurs and industrialists. The event was held at the National Chamber of Commerce auditorium and was attended by Deputy Minister Chathuranga Abeysinghe along with other prominent officials.
Key topics addressed at the seminar included government policies and industrial development, challenges encountered by industrialists, workforce development, women’s entrepreneurship, export growth, incentives for industrialists, and innovations. Entrepreneurs and industrialists voiced their concerns, while the ministers outlined various solutions and relief measures the government, led by the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, is implementing.
Minister Handunnetti emphasized that the new government’s objective is to steer the economy towards productivity, resulting in noticeable economic stability compared to the previous administration. He pointed out that Sri Lanka’s economic challenges were not primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic or global economic crises but rather due to weaknesses in policy decision-making.
The Minister further highlighted plans to establish Industrial Promotion Councils in every district to address the persistent issues faced by industrialists. Additionally, a comprehensive national tax policy will be introduced to provide relief to the industrial sector.
Deputy Minister Chathuranga Abeysinghe, in his response to concerns raised by industrialists, stated that the government is actively working on commercializing innovations, enhancing women’s economic participation, and developing new tourism zones to boost economic growth. The National Chamber of Commerce also pledged to assist in the commercialization of innovative projects.
The seminar was attended by National Chamber of Commerce Chairman Anura Warnakulasuriya, Vice Chairman Lakmal Fernando, former Chairman Deepal Nelson, officials from the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, entrepreneurs, and other stakeholders.
