Governor Dr. P. Nandalal Weerasinghe
The Sri Lanka Chamber of the Pharmaceutical Industry (SLCPI) successfully held its 64th Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 27 June, at the Cinnamon Grand Colombo.
SLCPI serves as the apex representative body for over 60 member companies, comprising importers, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers, who collectively account for more than 80% of the island’s private pharmaceutical market. The industry directly employs over 80,000 individuals and indirectly supports nearly 400,000 more, making it a vital contributor to the national economy and healthcare delivery.
At the AGM, Sunshine Healthcare Lanka Ltd., Director/Chief Executive Officer Shantha Bandara was officially appointed as the new President of SLCPI for the term 2025/2026. He will lead the SLCPI together with the newly elected office bearers and Executive Council members, bringing renewed focus to the SLCPI’s mission of fostering ethical, inclusive, and sustainable growth in Sri Lanka’s healthcare sector. The AGM was graced by Central Bank of Sri Lanka Governor Dr. P. Nandalal Weerasinghe, as the Chief Guest. In his keynote address, Dr. Weerasinghe shared insights into the broader economic outlook, discussing critical themes such as inflation targeting, interest rates, and the importance of a flexible exchange rate regime. His remarks provided valuable context for the operating environment within which all industries, including pharmaceuticals, continue to navigate. Delivering the President’s address, Shantha Bandara outlined the SLCPI’s strategic focus for the coming year under seven key priorities. These included advocating for transparent and equitable healthcare policies, improving drug quality testing and the NMRA online portal, and ensuring fair representation of all member companies, both multinationals and local enterprises. He also stressed the importance of restoring professionalism and dignity in the role of medical representatives, implementing of the newly developed SLCPI Code of Conduct, strengthening the Pharma Promoters Association (PPA), and fostering trust-based stakeholder relationships.
Bandara also announced the launch of the Annual Pharmaceutical Forum, a platform to promote knowledge-sharing, ethical discourse, and global alignment.
He concluded his remarks with a compelling message to the industry: “Let us elevate the dignity, purpose, and promise of our industry for generations to come.”
The AGM served not only as a formal meeting but also as a platform for meaningful engagement, reflection, and reaffirmation of the SLCPI’s collective commitment to upholding industry ethics and driving innovation in healthcare access.
The SLCPI extends its sincere appreciation to all members, invitees, and partners who contributed to the success of the event.
Daily FT – 02/07/2025