UAE leads foreign investor interest in Port City Colombo

Port city Colombo attracts diverse global investment as south asian interest remains untapped

Investors from the United Arab Emirates account for 19% of foreign interest in Port City Colombo, while Singapore, China, and the UK contribute 13% each.

The United States follows at 10% and Australia at 9%, according to the latest project data.

Although these figures demonstrate confidence from major international markets, analysts identify a significant gap regarding South Asian countries.

Despite geographic proximity and regulatory benefits, India remains absent from the leading investor markets, a trend Port City officials identify as a primary growth opportunity.

CHEC Port City Colombo Deputy Managing Director Thulci Aluwihare stated the diverse interest reflects rising international confidence, yet stressed the potential to draw businesses from South Asia.

He noted that while mature markets already familiar with cross-border operations lead the current profile, a need exists to build similar awareness in India, where companies seek internationally competitive platforms closer to home.

Operating as a ring-fenced Special Economic Zone under the Colombo Port City Economic Commission Act, the project offers a unique regulatory framework.

Advantages include a single-window investment facilitator, unrestricted foreign ownership, transactions in 16 foreign currencies, and improved capital mobility.

Aluwihare emphasised that the project offers more than just real estate.

He suggested that Indian businesses could utilise the platform to manage regional and international operations within a globally competitive environment.

Additional incentives for qualifying businesses include the ability to pay employees in foreign currency, long-term fiscal benefits, and access to double taxation agreements spanning 44 jurisdictions.

Industry observers note that Port City Colombo positions itself alongside established hubs like Dubai, Singapore, and Abu Dhabi for financial services and regional headquarters.

Aluwihare maintained that the current investor profile confirms international recognition of the project’s long-term potential, especially as South Asia remains one of the fastest-growing economic regions globally.