Sri Lanka Marks Its Debut at Hannover Messe 2024: Fostering Investment and Technological Collaborations
Enhancing Global Presence: Sri Lanka’s Strategic Outreach at the World’s Premier Industrial Fair
May 08th, 2024
The Hannover Messe 2024, the world’s leading industrial trade fair, was the stage for Sri Lanka’s inaugural official participation, marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to foster economic growth and technological collaborations on a global scale. State Minister of Investment Promotion Dilum Amunugama led the Sri Lankan delegation to Hannover, Germany, from April 24-26, demonstrating the nation’s commitment to enhancing its international trade relationships and showcasing its technological and investment potential.
This year’s event, which focused on cutting-edge developments such as artificial intelligence and hydrogen technology, drew over 130,000 visitors from 150 countries and featured 4,000 exhibiting companies and 300 startups. The fair highlighted global innovations and served as a platform for nations to strengthen economic ties and explore new business partnerships.
During his visit, State Minister Amunugama delivered a keynote speech at the Asia-Pacific Forum, emphasizing Sri Lanka’s readiness to attract foreign investments. He particularly highlighted opportunities in projects like the Port City initiative and extended an invitation to potential investors and partners to explore the diverse prospects that Sri Lanka has to offer.
In a series of strategic meetings with leaders from German Trade and Investment (GTAI), the investment promotion agency of Baden-Württemberg, and key business figures in sectors such as green hydrogen and IT services, State Minister Amunugama discussed enhancing bilateral trade links and integrating into European industrial value chains. These discussions underscored Sri Lanka’s commitment to attracting investment and adhering to international standards of a green economy and ethical business practices.
The delegation’s visit to the production plant of Continental AG, a major German investor in Sri Lanka, highlighted the recent agreement to expand their facilities with an investment of 13 million euros, expected to create 200 new jobs in Sri Lanka. This expansion is a testament to the growing confidence in Sri Lanka as a hub for sustainable and innovative industrial growth.
Organized by AHK Sri Lanka in collaboration with the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Berlin and Deutsche Messe AG, Sri Lanka’s participation in Hannover Messe 2024 was a resounding declaration of the country’s aspirations to play a pivotal role in the global industrial landscape. Accompanied by notable figures such as Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Germany, Varuni Muthukumarana, and other dignitaries, State Minister Amunugama’s visit not only strengthened diplomatic and business ties but also positioned Sri Lanka as a promising destination for international investors and collaborators.
