Chennai | 3 September 2026 Indo – Sri Lanka Chamber of Commerce & Industry (ISCCI) Hosted ISCCI Chennai Dialogue 2026 – “The Southern Gateway to Sri Lanka Engagement” on 3 September 2026 at the Madras Race Club, Chennai,
A Resounding Call to Build the Southern Gateway to Sri Lanka I Chennai | 3 September 2026
The Indo–Sri Lanka Chamber of Commerce & Industry (ISCCI) successfully convened the ISCCI Chennai Dialogue 2026 – “The Southern Gateway to Sri Lanka Engagement” on 3 September 2026 at the prestigious Madras Race Club, Chennai, bringing together an eminent gathering of senior government officials, diplomats, industry leaders, trade bodies, port authorities, business heads and key stakeholders from across the India–Sri Lanka economic landscape.
The Dialogue emerged as a powerful and timely platform for translating the historic India–Sri Lanka relationship into a new era of trade, investment, connectivity and enterprise-led growth.
At its core, the Dialogue delivered a compelling message: the time has come to move decisively from goodwill and potential to implementation, partnerships and measurable economic outcomes.
Chennai: The Southern Gateway to Sri Lanka
The deliberations strongly positioned Chennai and Tamil Nadu as a natural Southern Gateway to Sri Lanka, supported by Tamil Nadu’s formidable industrial base, world-class ports, logistics capabilities, dynamic MSME ecosystem, entrepreneurial strength and strategic proximity to Sri Lanka.
The Dialogue explored how these advantages can be transformed into efficient commercial corridors, stronger supply chains, expanded market access and new avenues for Indian and Sri Lankan enterprises.
The vision is clear – to create an economic bridge where trade moves faster, businesses connect deeper, investments flow more freely and MSMEs from both nations gain access to wider regional and global value chains.
Leadership Calls for a New Era of Economic Action
Addressing the distinguished gathering, Dr. Naresh Bana, Chairman, ISCCI, emphasised the imperative of building stronger institutional and business mechanisms to convert the immense possibilities in India–Sri Lanka relations into tangible economic outcomes.
He underscored the need to move from potential to performance and from dialogue to delivery, with sharper attention to trade facilitation, investment, connectivity and direct business-to-business engagement.
Mr. Sasi Kumar, Vice President, ISCCI and former Additional Director General of Foreign Trade (ADGFT), highlighted the practical challenges confronting businesses and stressed the importance of creating a more enabling ecosystem for Indian and Sri Lankan enterprises, particularly MSMEs, to participate in bilateral and regional value chains.
He emphasised that trade facilitation, market access, export opportunities and institutional support must work in tandem if businesses are to fully capitalise on the enormous opportunities before them.
A Distinguished Convergence of Government, Diplomacy & Industry
The Dialogue witnessed the participation of eminent representatives from diplomacy, trade and industry, including:
The presence of distinguished stakeholders brought together diverse but interconnected perspectives spanning SEZs, investment facilitation, ports, logistics, trade promotion, diplomacy, export development and the private sector.
This convergence reinforced a fundamental principle: the next chapter of India–Sri Lanka economic cooperation must be built collectively—with government, institutions and businesses working in concert.
Beyond Trade: Building an Economic Corridor
The Chennai Dialogue went beyond conventional discussions on bilateral trade.
The deliberations recognised that a truly integrated India–Sri Lanka economic corridor requires seamless logistics, efficient ports, accessible finance, MSME enablement, investment partnerships, institutional cooperation, stronger supply chains and sustained business-to-business engagement.
Chennai’s strategic position gives it the potential to become far more than a neighbouring commercial centre. It can emerge as a strategic commercial, logistical and institutional gateway connecting Indian enterprises with Sri Lankan and wider regional markets.
The vision of the Southern Gateway is therefore not simply geographical – it is economic, strategic and transformative.
ISCCI Reaffirms Its Commitment
The ISCCI Chennai Dialogue 2026 forms part of ISCCI’s continuing endeavour to bring government, diplomacy, ports, institutions, trade bodies and industry onto one common platform and convert meaningful conversations into practical opportunities for businesses in both countries.
Ms. Dipika Upadhyaya, Secretary General, ISCCI, stated:
“The overwhelming message from the Chennai Dialogue is unmistakable: India–Sri Lanka economic relations possess extraordinary untapped potential. The next phase must be driven by stronger business-to-business engagement, institutional collaboration and actionable trade corridors. Chennai has the opportunity to become the Southern Gateway through which this new economic momentum can flow.”
She further emphasised the importance of creating sustained platforms for engagement, identifying concrete business opportunities and facilitating meaningful connections between enterprises, institutions and decision-makers across both nations.
A New Chapter Begins in Chennai
The ISCCI Chennai Dialogue 2026 has marked an important milestone in the continuing journey of India–Sri Lanka economic cooperation.
It has strengthened the case for Chennai as the Southern Gateway to Sri Lanka and provided a powerful platform for advancing conversations around trade, connectivity, ports, investment, logistics and MSME-led growth.
More importantly, the Dialogue has reinforced a shared conviction:
The future of India–Sri Lanka commerce will not be built merely through proximity—it will be built through connectivity, collaboration and courageous economic action.
With Chennai at the heart of this emerging vision, ISCCI remains committed to building the bridges, enabling the corridors and creating the platforms that can transform bilateral goodwill into enduring commercial prosperity.
Indo–Sri Lanka Chamber of Commerce & Industry (ISCCI)
Building Bridges. Creating Corridors. Enabling Commerce.
ISCCI Facilitates Visit of Sri Lankan Industry Minister to Strengthen Indo–Sri Lanka Collaboration in Food Processing & Agri-Tech
New Delhi | 17th July 2026
The Indo – Sri Lanka Chamber of Commerce & Industry (ISCCI) successfully facilitated the visit of Hon. Sunil Handunneththi, Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development of Sri Lanka, on 17 July 2026, reinforcing bilateral engagement in key industrial sectors.
As part of his visit, the Hon. Minister undertook an exploratory on 17 July 2026 to leading industrial infrastructure in Haryana, including the HSIIDC Mega Food Park, Bari, Sonipat.
The visit was graced by the presence and support of the Sri Lankan High Commission and its officials, ISCCI Chairman Dr. Naresh Bana, representatives from HSIIDC, and the Chairman of MJ Warehousing, who collectively facilitated the engagement and interactions with key stakeholders.
p.s.c, F.I.E., M.I.M.A., M.I.P.W.E
Chairman ISCCI
Internationally Acclaimed Expert in Infrastructure Development and Public-Private Partnerships (PPP)
Vice Chairman ISCCI at Colombo
Former Secretary to
President of Sri Lanka
Public Policy Expert
For Immediate Circulation
Leadership Transition at Indo Sri Lanka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ISCCI)
New Delhi
Friday 17th April – 2026
The Indo Sri Lanka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ISCCI), announces a significant and positive leadership transition, marking a new chapter in its continued commitment to fostering international trade, investment, and bilateral cooperation.
Lt Gen Rakesh Loomba, who has served with distinction as Chairman, ISCCI, has formally relinquished the appointment. The Chamber places on record its deep appreciation for his visionary leadership, steadfast dedication, and valuable contributions toward strengthening institutional frameworks and advancing cross-border economic engagement between the two countries.
Succeeding him, Dr Naresh Bana, Vice Chairman of ISCCI, has been appointed as the new Chairman of the Chamber.
His appointment was unanimously and willingly approved by all members of the Committee, reflecting a shared confidence in his leadership capabilities and strategic vision for the organization. Committee also designated Mr. Udaya Seneviratne, Senior Vice President as new Vice Chairman at Colombo. There was no change to any other appointment.
Dr Naresh Bana, Chairman ISCCI, brings with him a wealth of experience and a forward-looking approach, and is expected to further enhance the Chamber’s role as a dynamic platform for promoting trade, investment, and meaningful partnerships between nations.
Mr. Udaya Seneviratne, Vice Chairman ISCCI, was formerly Secretary to then President of Sri Lanka. His experience is invaluable for promoting trade, investment, and meaningful partnerships between our two nations.
The Chamber remains steadfast in its mission to act as a catalyst for economic growth, policy dialogue, and business facilitation, and looks forward to continued engagement with all stakeholders under its new leadership.
For further information, please contact:
Dipika Upadhyaya
Secretary General – ISCCI
dipika@iscci.org.in
http://iscci.org.in
The Indo–Sri Lanka Chamber of Commerce & Industry (ISCCI) was honoured to attend the 78th Independence Day celebrations of Sri Lanka at the High Commission of Sri Lanka in New Delhi, on the gracious invitation of Her Excellency Ms. Mahisini Colonne, High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to India.
The celebrations were further graced by the presence of Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh, Hon’ble Minister of State for External Affairs, Government of India, as the Chief Guest, reflecting the strength and depth of the India–Sri Lanka partnership.
We extend our sincere appreciation for the warm welcome and exceptional hospitality extended to us. The evening was a beautiful celebration of Sri Lanka’s rich heritage, complemented by authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, cultural elegance, and gracious hospitality.
Such occasions reaffirm the deep-rooted ties and enduring friendship between India and Sri Lanka, inspiring continued collaboration across trade, culture, and people-to-people engagement.
ISCCI congratulates the Government and people of Sri Lanka on this proud milestone and looks forward to strengthening bilateral cooperation in the years ahead.
Theme: Enabling Sri Lanka’s Market Bond Issuance in Indian Currency – Pathways, Policies, and Preparedness
Date: Wednesday, 15th October 2025
Venue: BMICH, Colombo
Time: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Followed by High Tea
Indo Sri Lanka Chamber of Commerce & Industry (ISCCI) Hosts High Level Panel on Sovereign Bond Issuance for Sri Lanka’s Infrastructure Development at Constitution Club of India
New Delhi, Friday 29th August 2025 The Indo-Sri Lanka Chamber of Commerce & Industry (ISCCI) convened an eminent panel discussion on “Bridging Borders: Exploring Sovereign Bond Issuance in India for Sri Lanka’s Infrastructure Development” at the Constitution Club of India, bringing together economists, financial experts, and industry leaders to deliberate on a transformative financing avenue for Sri Lanka’s growth story.
The special initiative explored the potential of enabling Sri Lanka to tap into Indian financial markets through INR-denominated sovereign bond issuance, with an eye on infrastructure development in Sri Lanka.
The event opened with welcome by Ms. Dipika Upadhyaya, Secretary General of ISCCI, Opening address by Lt Gen RK Loomba (Retd), Chairman of ISCCI. High Commissioner of Sri Lanka in India, H.E. Ms. Mahishini Colonne was the Chief Guest at the event who in her address highlighted the shared culture and heritage of our two countries and expressed hope that initiatives like this discussion will not only endeavor to accelerate the infrastructure development of Sri Lanka but also strengthen bilateral ties between the two countries.
The discussion session was chaired by former Chief Information Commissioner of India Ambassador Y.K. Sinha also former High Commissioner of India in Sri Lanka and the UK. The event featured distinguished voices such as Mr. Geshaan Dissanayake, Minister Counselor (Commercial), High Commission of Sri Lanka, Dr. Charan Singh, Eminent Economist and Policy Advisor, Dr. P.R. Jaishankar, Former Managing Director, India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited (IIFCL), Ms. Vidisha Krishan, Investment and Capital Markets Expert, Dr. Naresh Bana, Global PPP Advisor and Vice Chairman, ISCCI.
The elaborate discussion explored the key themes of opportunities for Sri Lanka to leverage India’s growing economy in general and the GIFT City in particular, for international bond listings. Post-crisis resilience measures by Sri Lanka and their implications for trade, foreign investment, and regional collaboration and importance of Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) and blended finance models in infrastructure development and the role Sovereign bonds can play in mitigating the project bankability. Further, it detailed the cross-border financial cooperation mechanisms, including learnings from multilateral platforms such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), Regulatory pathways for INR-denominated bond issuance under the oversight of SEBI and the RBI while also emphasizing on building investor confidence through macroeconomic stability, transparency, and institutional safeguards.
Speaking on the occasion, ISCCI Vice Chairman Dr. Naresh Bana emphasized the catalytic role of chambers of commerce and bilateral institutions in anchoring long-term investor confidence. He highlighted that “Platforms like today’s are not just about dialogue—they are about designing pathways for sustainable investment and collaboration between India and Sri Lanka.”
The panel concluded with a consensus that sovereign bond issuance in India could be a game-changer for Sri Lanka’s infrastructure ambitions, provided it is need based, fiscally prudent, backed by robust institutional frameworks, regional cooperation, and investor confidence-building measures.
The event reinforced ISCCI’s commitment to fostering economic diplomacy and cross-border business partnerships in sectors critical to Indo-Sri Lankan cooperation.
The Indo Sri Lanka Chamber of Commerce & Industry (ISCCI) proudly announces the launch of its South India Chapter, encompassing the dynamic states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala within its jurisdiction. This strategic expansion reflects ISCCI’s commitment to deepening bilateral trade, cultural exchange, and regional collaboration between India and Sri Lanka. Tamil Nadu and Kerala—renowned for their thriving industries, maritime connectivity, and historical ties with Sri Lanka—offer immense potential for cross-border partnerships in sectors such as tourism, shipping, textiles, spices, renewable energy, and IT services. The South India Chapter will serve as a vital platform for fostering business dialogue, facilitating investments, and creating synergies across borders. Through this regional presence, ISCCI aims to further its mission of enabling sustainable economic cooperation and building bridges between communities and enterprises on both sides of the Palk Strait.
Noida, 10th March 2024 The Indo-Sri Lanka Cooperation Summit was successfully held at KRIBHCO Auditorium, Noida, emphasizing the strong cultural, economic, and strategic partnership between India and Sri Lanka. Organized by the Indo-Sri Lanka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ISCCI), the event witnessed the presence of esteemed dignitaries and industry leaders.
The summit commenced with a traditional lamp lighting ceremony, followed by a welcome address by the Secretary General of ISCCI. The theme of the summit was introduced by the Chairman of ISCCI. The event was presided over by Mr. Manish Kumar, Director (F), KRIBHCO. The Guests of Honour included Mr. Sandeep Marwah, Chancellor of AAFT University, and Ms. Priyanga Wickramasinghe, Acting High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to India.
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