Ajman Chamber is looking to strengthen its economic relationship with Sri Lanka, with new discussions focusing on bilateral trade, investment opportunities and closer cooperation between businesses in both markets.
The meeting, held at Ajman Chamber’s headquarters, brought together Salem Al Suwaidi, Director-General of Ajman Chamber, and Alexi Gunasekera, Consul General of Sri Lanka in Dubai and the Northern Emirates.
Both sides explored opportunities across several industries, including financial technology, industrial equipment, education, food security and advanced information technology. The discussions also touched on potential cooperation agreements and initiatives that could help investors and entrepreneurs establish stronger commercial connections.
For Ajman, the engagement reflects its continuing efforts to attract international businesses and expand its network of economic partnerships.
Ajman Chamber and Sri Lanka Explore New Business Partnerships
Strengthening relationships between the private sectors of Ajman and Sri Lanka was a central topic during the meeting. Both delegations discussed how businesses could benefit from improved communication, investment promotion and more opportunities for direct commercial engagement.
The possibility of signing Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) was also raised. Such agreements could establish a framework for future cooperation, particularly in connecting companies, supporting investment activities and encouraging participation in international business events.
Ajman Chamber highlighted the value of economic forums and trade exhibitions in bringing companies together. These platforms allow businesses to explore unfamiliar markets, establish contacts and identify potential partnerships without immediately committing to major investments.
The meeting also included Ali Rashid Al Kaitoob, Executive Director of the Studies and Investment Development Sector at Ajman Chamber, and Fatma Fatima Yaqoob Al Awadhi, Head of the Investment Attraction Section. Subhashini Silva, Deputy Consul General of Sri Lanka, joined the discussions.
Fintech, Food Security and Advanced Technology Among Priority Sectors
Several industries emerged as potential areas for closer cooperation between Ajman and Sri Lanka. Financial technology, industrial machinery, education, food security and advanced information technology were among the sectors discussed by the two delegations.
Financial technology offers opportunities for businesses developing digital payment services, financial platforms and technology-based solutions. As companies increasingly adopt digital systems, cooperation in this sector could help businesses explore new commercial markets.
Food security presents another area of interest. The UAE continues to prioritise resilient food supply chains and diversified sourcing, creating opportunities for agricultural producers, food distributors and technology companies involved in food production and logistics.
Industrial equipment and advanced information technology could also provide opportunities for companies interested in cross-border trade and technical cooperation. Educational partnerships may offer additional possibilities for knowledge exchange and professional development.
The meeting did not result in announced investment projects or financial commitments. Instead, the discussions identified sectors where businesses from both markets could explore future partnerships.
Ajman Highlights Its Competitive Investment Environment
Ajman Chamber used the meeting to introduce the Sri Lankan delegation to the emirate’s investment environment and the opportunities available to international companies.
The presentation focused on Ajman’s economic diversity, business development initiatives and efforts to simplify commercial activities. These factors are important for foreign investors assessing where to establish operations or expand into the UAE market.
Ajman has positioned itself as an accessible destination for entrepreneurs, small and medium-sized enterprises and companies seeking opportunities in manufacturing, trade and services.
For Sri Lankan businesses, stronger connections with Ajman’s economic institutions could provide a starting point for understanding local regulations, identifying commercial partners and evaluating potential investment opportunities.
Ajman Chamber’s international engagement also supports its broader objective of encouraging business growth and attracting companies from different markets. Building relationships with overseas institutions can help create the conditions for future trade and investment activity.
Thara Investment and Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Opens New Opportunities
The discussions also highlighted Ajman Chamber’s Thara Investment and Entrepreneurship Ecosystem, an initiative designed to encourage entrepreneurship and strengthen connections between investors and businesses.
Ajman Chamber invited the Sri Lankan delegation to attend the launch ceremony of Thara, presenting the initiative as another opportunity for economic engagement.
The ecosystem aims to support entrepreneurs through business development initiatives, investment opportunities and services that encourage commercial growth. It also seeks to connect emerging businesses with investors and other participants in the entrepreneurial community.
For Sri Lankan entrepreneurs considering expansion into the UAE, such initiatives could provide opportunities to explore Ajman’s business environment and establish relationships with local companies.
The invitation reflects an interest in moving economic cooperation beyond official meetings. Bringing entrepreneurs and investors into the conversation could create opportunities for practical business collaboration.
Expo Sri Lanka 2027 Could Strengthen International Trade Connections
Sri Lanka invited Ajman Chamber to participate in Expo Sri Lanka 2027, scheduled for January 2027. The exhibition is expected to highlight the country’s commercial and investment opportunities across a range of industries.
During the meeting, Gunasekera discussed Sri Lanka’s investment potential, particularly in industrial manufacturing, agriculture, renewable energy, tourism, healthcare and emerging technologies.
The exhibition could provide Ajman-based businesses with an opportunity to meet Sri Lankan companies, examine potential investments and develop relationships with organisations operating in the South Asian market.
For Sri Lanka, attracting participation from UAE business institutions could help increase international exposure for its industries and encourage engagement with potential investors.
Trade exhibitions often serve as an early stage of commercial cooperation, allowing companies to assess opportunities before pursuing formal partnerships.
Although Ajman Chamber has not announced confirmed participation, the invitation offers another possible avenue for strengthening economic ties between the two markets.
Ajman Looks to Expand Its International Economic Network
Ajman Chamber’s engagement with Sri Lanka reflects a broader effort to develop international commercial relationships and encourage cooperation across industries.
The discussions covered more than conventional trade. Entrepreneurship, emerging technologies, investment promotion and private sector collaboration all featured prominently, suggesting an interest in building longer-term economic connections.
Potential cooperation agreements could provide a foundation for future initiatives, while platforms such as Thara and Expo Sri Lanka 2027 may help businesses establish direct relationships.
The next stage will depend on whether the discussions develop into formal agreements, business exchanges or investment projects.
For Ajman, expanding international partnerships remains an important part of its economic ambitions. Closer engagement with Sri Lanka could create additional opportunities for companies seeking access to new markets and cross-border commercial relationships.
Sources
- Emirates News Agency (WAM) — Ajman Chamber Explores Economic Cooperation Opportunities with Sri Lanka
- Ajman Chamber — Official Website
