KRISHAN BALENDRA RE-ELECTED CHAIRPERSON OF THE CEYLON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Krishan Balendra has been re-elected Chairperson of The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce for the 2026/27 term at the organisation’s historic 187th Annual General Meeting, reaffirming the business community’s confidence in his leadership. His continued stewardship comes at a pivotal moment for Sri Lanka, as the country works to consolidate its economic recovery and strengthen its position in the global marketplace.

Balendra’s tenure has been marked by a clear focus on policy advocacy, trade facilitation, and investment promotion. Under his guidance, the Chamber has expanded international partnerships and empowered more than 1,800 small and medium-sized enterprises, ensuring that the benefits of growth extend beyond large corporates to the wider business community. This emphasis on inclusivity has been central to the Chamber’s mission of driving sustainable national development.  

The Chamber’s role as a bridge between the private and public sectors has grown increasingly significant in recent years. Balendra has consistently championed collaboration with government institutions to improve the ease of doing business, enhance exports, and attract investment. These efforts have been instrumental in creating a more predictable and transparent environment for both domestic and foreign investors, reinforcing Sri Lanka’s reputation as a competitive destination in South Asia.  

As Sri Lanka continues to navigate structural reforms and rebuild resilience, the Chamber has positioned itself as a key partner in shaping long-term economic strategy. Its advocacy has supported initiatives to streamline regulatory processes, modernise trade practices, and strengthen investor confidence. Balendra’s leadership has been widely credited with ensuring that the Chamber remains responsive to the evolving needs of businesses while aligning with national priorities.  

The re-election of Balendra reflects not only his personal credibility but also the Chamber’s enduring relevance as an institution. Founded in 1839, The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce has long been a cornerstone of Sri Lanka’s economic life, representing diverse sectors and providing a platform for dialogue, innovation, and growth. Its ability to adapt to changing circumstances while maintaining its core mission has been vital in sustaining its influence over nearly two centuries.  

Looking ahead, the Chamber has pledged to intensify efforts to boost exports, particularly in sectors where Sri Lanka holds comparative advantages such as agriculture, manufacturing, and services. It also aims to deepen engagement with global partners, leveraging international networks to open new markets and opportunities for Sri Lankan enterprises. Balendra’s re-election signals continuity in this vision, ensuring that the Chamber remains a driving force in shaping the country’s economic trajectory.  

The confidence expressed by the business community at the Annual General Meeting underscores the importance of steady leadership during times of transition. With Balendra at the helm, The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce is expected to continue playing a decisive role in fostering growth, innovation, and collaboration, reinforcing its commitment to building a stronger and more sustainable future for Sri Lanka.  

Krishan Balendra has been re-elected Chairperson of The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce for 2026/27, reaffirming confidence in his leadership. Under his stewardship, the Chamber has advanced policy advocacy, trade facilitation, investment promotion, and SME empowerment. As Sri Lanka recovers, the Chamber remains committed to exports, investment, and public-private collaboration for sustainable growth.