Sri Lanka Shippers’ Council marks 60 Years, 56th AGM

The Sri Lanka Shippers’ Council (SLSC), the apex body representing Sri Lanka’s importers and exporters, marked its 60th anniversary at its 56th Annual General Meeting held on 10 July 2026 at Shangri-La Colombo.

The event was attended by Matthew Duckworth, Australian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, as Chief Guest, with Hayleys Chairman Mohan Pandithage attending as Guest of Honour. The gathering brought together senior representatives from government institutions, trade associations, the logistics and shipping sectors, development partners, and members of the Council.

Trisherman Frink was re-elected Chairman of the Sri Lanka Shippers’ Council for a second consecutive term.

Highlighting the Council's vision of enhancing competitiveness by eliminating hidden logistics costs, he noted that unnecessary delays, inefficient procedures, avoidable surcharges, and outdated regulations continue to undermine the competitiveness of Sri Lankan businesses.

He stressed the importance of greater efficiency, digitalisation, and collaboration in ensuring Sri Lanka remains competitive in global trade.

Reviewing the Council's work over the past year, he highlighted its continued engagement with key government agencies including Sri Lanka Customs, the Sri Lanka Ports Authority, the Board of Investment of Sri Lanka, the Merchant Shipping Secretariat, the Export Development Board, Airport & Aviation Services (Sri Lanka), and international development partners, to advance trade facilitation and improve the country's logistics ecosystem.

Looking ahead, Frink said the Council will continue to advocate for policies that improve trade competitiveness, accelerate digital trade facilitation, remove unnecessary logistics barriers, and promote international best practices across the sector.

He expressed appreciation to all sponsors, Gold Sponsors, Abanchy Ceylon, and Ocean Network Express Lanka, Silver Sponsors,Hayleys Advantis, Ansell Lanka, MAC Holdings, Scanwell Logistics Colombo, and Foreway Logistics, and E-Banner Sponsors, David Pieris Logistics and SCS Express, with special mention of the Preferred Terminal Operator - South Asia Gateway Terminals (Private) Limited.

Picture: Sri Lanka Shippers’ Council (SLSC) Executive Committee for the Year 2026/2027