FCCISL signs MOU to promote bilateral trade between Sri Lanka and Yunnan Province

Daily News /Thursday, 29 March 2007

TRADE: A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Department of Commerce, Yunnan Province, China and the Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Sri Lanka (FCCISL) to promote bilateral trade between Sri Lanka and Yunnan Province.

In addition it would also facilitate Sri Lankan business people to participate at the Chinese Export and Import Trade Fair, Kunming.

Deputy Director General of Commerce, Yunnan Province Li Jiming who heads the five member delegation said this year over 40 foreign countries would be participating for this event.

“The Chinese are very keen to do business with Sri Lanka as it the gateway to enter the Indian market,” he said. This would give the opportunity for Lankan companies to come to joint ventures with Chinese companies. More>>

Brandix ranked Sri Lanka’s largest apparel exporter by EDB

Daily mirror /Thursday, March 29, 2007

Brandix, the Sri Lankan apparel powerhouse with global aspirations, has been formally confirmed as the country’s largest apparel exporter by the Export Development Board (EDB).

A ranking of Sri Lanka’s top six exporters on the basis of export turnover was released by the Board this week, at a meeting convened by Export Development and International Trade Minister Prof. G. L. Peiris to meet representatives of the six organizations for a discussion.

Brandix, with a consolidated group turnover of US $ 320 million for the year ending March 31, 2007, is the highest ranked apparel sector player among the top six exporters.

Commenting on the formal recognition of the group’s contribution to the national economy, Brandix CEO Ashroff Omar said: “Brandix has been making substantial investments in Sri Lanka and it is encouraging to see that our efforts have contributed very tangibly to the export economy of the country.” Brandix has pursued an aggressive growth strategy to counter the challenges of the post quota regime. Over the last three years it has invested Rs.6.6 billion and in the last year alone the Group has invested more than Rs.2.5 billion to expand its Sri Lankan operations. Investments of Rs.3.5 billion are in the pipeline for the new financial year. More>>

Ceylon Chamber of Commerce is 168 years

Daily Mirror /Thursday, March 29, 2007

CCC’s social responsibility continue to guide the private sector

The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce (CCC) celebrated 168 years of exemplary service to the business community this year. Established on March 25th, 1839, CCC is amongst the few legendary institutions in the Asia Pacific Region to hold such an unbroken record.

Having commenced operations with coffee, followed by the tea, rubber and coconut sectors, the CCC has now evolved to cover all sectors of the economy and identifies itself as a Confederation of Regional and Sectoral Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Trade Associations, Employer Associations and Bilateral Business Councils. The CCC claims this status having formed alliances with 13 Regional Chambers, 41 Trade, Product and Service Associations and 18 Bilateral Business Councils. More>>  

Global Park, choice of M&S for outlet store division

Daily News / Wednesday, 28 March 2007

Shirajiv Sirimane

Selection: Global apparel giant and leading department store, Marks and Spencer (M&S) of London, for the first time has selected a Sri Lankan company, Global Park (GTL), Katunayake, as their outlet store division.

This selection has been made overlooking several other Asian companies which had made bids to be the Mark and Spencer Asian outlet store division. The GTL will now be in charge to store products manufactured in M&S factories in India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka and ship them to European destinations as and when required. This multi country consolidation is the first of its kind in the industry here with Sri Lanka being selected over other Asian countries.

Manger Business Development and Infrastructure, Global Park, Priyantha Disssanayake said that they had invested nearly 20 million US dollars to construct the state of the art complex.

"We are honoured that M&S has selected our company and this would also result in providing over 100 additional employment opportunities and bring more revenue to the country," he said. M&S have a vast number of factories manufacturing for them in the Indian sub continent and with Global Park functioning as its sole warehouse provider, M&S have successfully launched and consolidated their pick, pack and ship operations with no holds barred. More>>

Coconut plantation expansion efforts underway

Daily News / Wednesday, 28 March 2007

Walter Liyanarachchi

TARGET: Energetic efforts are now being made to increase the coconut plantation by 20,000 h.a. before end 2007 to meet the drastic increase in local consumption and foreign demand for value-added products, said Minister of Plantation Industries D. M. Jayaratne.

The accelerated programme will be streamlined under the 'Wevili Saviya' campaign and maximum assistance will be given to the planters, the Minister told the Daily News. A decision has also been taken to subsidise the planters with a sum of Rs. 6,000 per acre and to provide saplings at Rs. 50 which presently costs Rs. 80.

A survey is underway to identify barren lands for new plantations throughout the country where suitable climatic conditions prevail for coconut, he said. Minister expressed hopes to encourage the potential planters to grow export-oriented additional crops such as pepper.

Felling of coconut trees awfully reduced the number of acres of coconut cultivation. This practice was unavoidable due to the house-building increase catering to the increasing population. Another constraint is to find labour when going through the process of meeting the new plantation target, the Minister said. More>>

Rubber production up in 2006

Daily News / Wednesday, 28 March 2007

Anjana Samarasinghe

INCREASE: The Department of Rubber Development said Sri Lanka has recorded 109 million kg of rubber production last year and it was 104 million in 2005.

An official of the Department told the Daily News that rubber exports were recorded as 46 million Kg last year and in 2005 it was 31.6 million Kg . While rubber exports increased last year local consumption has declined in 2006.

The local consumption was recorded as 63 million Kg last year and it was 72.7 million Kg the previous year. This is due to the higher prices last year and many manufacturers must have switched to other substitutes, the official said.

Sri Lanka has exported 19.8 million Kg of sheet rubber last year. This was 12 million Kg in 2005. Country had also exported 2.49 million Kg of sole crepe rubber and 0.6 million kilos of scrap crepe rubber last year.

Exports of latex crepe were 16.3 million kilos in 2006 and it was 10 million kilos in 2005. ESR exports recorded as 4.5 million kilos while it was 2.1 million kilos 2005. Latex and other rubber exports were recorded as 2.6 million kilos last year. More>>

AYSAF 2007 - 37th International Footwear Industry
19.03.2007

AYSAF 2007 - 37th International Footwear Industry

37th AYSAF, International Footwear Industry Suppliers Fair, will be held between 29 March- 1 April 2007 at Istanbul Expo Center.

In Hall 5, leather and artificial leather, in Halls 6 and 7 soles, heels, machines, moulds and chemicals will be displayed. There will be approximately 400 exhibitors in the fair. The fair will host both local and foreign exhibitors, such as AEC (The Spanish Association of Footwear Components) will again be ready at the fair with 9 stands.

A special trend area, which will be built within the fair center, will be a very important activity in determining the fashion of 2007-2008 autumn/winter season More>>

FCCISL to promote Sino-Lanka economic ties

Daily News / Monday, 26 March 2007

Ruwanthi ABEYAKOON

COOPERATION: Business community of Sri Lanka will extend the fullest cooperation to China to strengthen trade and economic ties, President, Federation of Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FCCISL), Nawaz Rajabdeen said at the seminar on Trade and Economic Cooperation between Sri Lanka and Yunnan, China.

“China cannot just market their products in Sri Lanka but can reach the market in the region by strengthening the trade and economic ties with Sri Lanka. Federation will extend the fullest co-operation for this,” he said.

Vice President, Sri Lanka-China Business Council, Ranjan De Silva, said the Council will promote and expand business relations between Sri Lanka and China.

“With China’s phenomenal expansion in industry and commerce, there is remarkable potential for trade and investment initiatives between China and Sri Lanka. More>>

Tea seminar by ASMET

Daily News / Monday, 26 March 2007

SEMINAR: After a very successful seminar last year by the Association of Small and Medium Exporters of Tea (ASMET) covering all aspects of the tea trade specifically targeting the small time exporters and the problems faced by them and how to avoid them, another seminar on a very important aspect of international trade is to be covered by a seminar to be held on March 28 starting at 8 a.m. at the auditorium of the National Chamber of Commerce. It includes a visit to a Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points, HACCP approved packing plant.

The subject chosen this year is how to meet the HACCP requirements for tea exports in the international trade. This criteria is gaining considerable importance in the international tea trade. More>>

CFC in deep sea fishing agreement with Maldives

Daily News / Monday, 26 March 2007

Anjana SAMARASINGHE

FISHING: The Ceylon Fisheries Corporation (CFC) entered into an agreement with Ensis Fishing (Pvt) Limited a Maldivian fishing company, to fish in the deep sea and international waters and to promote fish exports.

Signing of the MOU between the two parties was held recently at the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources.

The General Manager CFC, Sarath Sahabandu told Daily News that CFC has not been in deep sea fishing operations since 1981 due to lack of expertise in deep sea fishing. Under the new joint venture CFC will provide necessary boats and other equipment for the Maldivian company and they will do deep sea fishing for CFC. More>>

Conference on Trade in Services

Daily News / Monday, 26 March 2007

CONFERENCE: The Institute of Policy Studies (IPS) and the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES) will be holding an international conference on Trade in Services in South Asia: Opportunities and Risks in Liberalisation, to be held in Colombo on the 4th-5th of April, 2007 at the Cinnamon Grand, Colombo.

The conference intends to analyze service sector liberalisation undertaken to-date in the region and highlight the opportunities and risks present from the liberalisation process.

With South Asia exploring the feasibility of incorporating services in the SAFTA framework, it is also timely to discuss the potential areas of co-operation in the services sector in the region. More>>

M&S picks Colombo as hub

Enters into deal with Global Park for consolidation to warehousing

Daily News / Monday, 26 March 2007

By Sandun A. Jayesekera
One of the leading supermarket chains in the UK, global giant, Marks and Spencer has picked Colombo as hub for warehousing. This will officially come into effect on March 29 at 10.30am.

This came about following an agreement with a Sri Lankan company to import garments manufactured under the brand name of M&S in Asian countries.

Under the agreement, M&S will use warehouse facilities of Global Park to import garment manufactured under the brand name of M&S in Asian countries and re export them after consolidation.

This is the first such venture carried out by the global giant with a local company, and in a bid to facilitate the project M&S has appointed Global Park as its Outlet Store Division. More>>

National Aquaculture Authority initiates fish-breeding farms

Daily Mirror / Monday, March 26, 2007

The Chairman of the National Aquaculture Development Authority, Munidasa Hemachandra said that in a bid to make the Gamaneguma development programme a success, action has been taken by the National Aquaculture Development Authority to expand the fresh water fisheries industry to initiate fish-breeding farms with community participation to develop the ornamental fish producing industry and to expand the sea water fish breading programme.

The chairman added that necessary instructions have already been given to all the divisional and district level aquatic project officers through internal circulars by the Authority for the successful implementation of these programmes.

For this purpose two Grama Seva divisions have been identified by each Pradesiya Sabha member. Aquatic project officers have been instructed by the national Aquaculture Development authority to work in consultation with Pradesiya Sabha members while conducting public awareness programmes. More>>   

Indo Lanka CEPA talks in Colombo next week

Daily Mirror / Friday, March 23, 2007

By Sunimalee Dias

Sri Lanka and India will be going in for the next technical level talks looking beyond the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) from March 28-30 in Colombo.

The Common Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) will centre its discussions next week on the introduction of negative lists, improvements to market access, tourism, insurance and professional services in the services category, Indian High Commission Counsellor (Economic and Commerce) Sunjay Sudhir told the Daily Financial Times yesterday.

The CEPA which has been fast tracked to be completed by the middle of this year, it was noted that “within the realm of possibility” it was likely to be completed by that time.

In the discussion of negative lists which include items without duty concessions, there will be further talks on the reduction of the items on the list. More>>

Tea exports recover in February

Daily Mirror / Friday, March 23, 2007

Asia Siyaka Commodities said yesterday that tea exports in February has recovered after the slump in January.

It said as per Customs data total tea exports at 26.5MnKg up 6% on the 2006 figure of 24.9MnKg. The February '07 performance has also recovered much of the shortfall during January when a very low 21.4MnKg was shipped.

"In spite of this performance the total to date at 47.9MnKg is lower than 49.8MnKg shipped during the same period last year," Asia said.

The higher export value per Kilogram of Rs.313 against Rs.275 in '06 has kept total earnings ahead in the current year. Value of exports at Rs.15 billion is 10% higher than the '06 figure of Rs. 13.7 billion. More>>

EU says G33 trade talks positive, time running out

Daily Mirror / Friday, March 23, 2007

JAKART - The European Union's trade chief hailed a meeting of G33 developing nations on Wednesday as a chance for success in global trade talks after they appeared to make concessions on protective tariffs for farm goods.

But European Trade Commissioner Peter Mandelson warned that time is running out for the World Trade Organisation's long-troubled Doha round of negotiations, and all groups must converge by the end of April.

Indonesia hosted the meeting of developing nations, which was also attended by the EU and other key players such as Brazil. More>>

Export statistics key to study trends

Daily Mirror / Friday, March 23, 2007

Representations by the Policy Support Unit of FCCISL

The timely availability of export statistics to the trade is a matter of importance since it enables exporters to study trends and direction of exports of selected items.

Until about three years ago some of the Senior Chambers of Commerce in Sri Lanka had in place a useful scheme, which enabled such Chambers to supply statistics to members.

In the provision of the statistics the Department of Customs had a big role to play.

The modus operandi of the scheme enabled computerized statistics on certain exports to be obtained on a monthly basis from the Customs department on the payment of a specified sum for each product taking into account the number of pages involved. More>>

Pakistan-Sri Lanka trade and economic relations grow stronger

Daily Mirror / Friday, March 23, 2007

Trade relations Pakistan and Sri Lanka have come a long way in strengthening their economic and trade relations. Even a decade ago total trade volume between the two countries used to be quite negligible. Today, while still not major trade partners, Pakistan and Sri Lanka have laid a firm foundation for building a strong economic relationship. Signing of the Pakistan Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement has added new dimension in our relationship. However, we have yet to go a very long way. Total trade figures of US$230 million during this period have been the highest ever between the two countries.

Pakistan Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement (PSLFTA) More>>

Expo Pakistan 2007 – Opportunities unlimited

Daily Mirror / Friday, March 23, 2007

Expo Pakistan 2007 organized by Trade Development Authority is being held at the Expo Centre in Karachi, following on from the trend of the past two exhibitions. The Expo Centre is spread over 230,000 sq. meters and is equipped with modern facilities of international standards. The show is scheduled to be held from the March 29 to April 1, 2007.Exhibitors will be divided into product and service groups, as follows:High Tech Products - Health Care Products – Food Products.

The exhibition covers a range of products from home decor to fabric, textile, information technology, food & ingredients, sports goods, surgical and pharmacy, gems and jewelry, industrial goods, auto and auto parts, services sector and leather goods.Expo Pakistan 2007 More>>

FCCISL to promote trade between Sri Lanka and Yunnan Province, China

Daily Mirror / Friday, March 23, 2007

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Department of Commerce, Yunnan Province, China and the Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Sri Lanka (FCCISL) to promote bilateral trade between Sri Lanka and Yunnan Province, specially, to facilitate Sri Lankan business people to participate at the Chinese Export and Import Trade Fair,Kunming.

Li Jiming, Deputy Director General of Commerce, Yunnan Province and Nawaz Rajabdeen, President, FCCISL signed the MoU at the Hotel Cinnamon Grand, yesterday night.

Kunming Trade Fair is an annual global event where more than 40 countries would be participating. The visit of the five member Chinese trade delegation is a direct result of the promotional activities carried out by the Sri Lankan Trade Delegation led by FCCISL that accompanied the Presidential entourage to China recently. More>>

Prof. Peiris to address Exporters on “Exports – The Future Focus”

Daily Mirror / Friday, March 23, 2007

Prof. G L Peiris, Minister of Export Development and International Trade will be the Guest Speaker at a seminar to be held on Tuesday, March 27 at the National Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka, Auditorium.

The Minister will talk on “Exporters – the Future focus of the Government” explaining the Government’s goals on export development strategies, and programmes to increase market access for Sri Lankan exports. The Objective of the talk is to educate the business community, mainly the direct and indirect exporters, and potential investors on the Government’s future plans in export development. It will help the decision makers of all public and private sector organizations involved in exports, senior bankers and the Small and Medium Entrepreneurs to plan their export activities for next few years.

The Seminar will be conducted on 27th March 2007, commencing 4.00 pm at the NCCSL Auditorium, 4th Floor, 450, D R Wijewardena Mawatha, Colombo 10. More>>  

Mabroc Kelani Valley teas branded first with UN Global Compact to promote Corporate Responsibility

Daily Mirror /Thursday, March 22, 2007

A Sri Lankan company introduced two new “ethical” teas of the Ceylon variety this week, the first products ever to be jointly branded with the United Nations Global Compact to promote responsible corporate citizenship around the world by including information on the initiative’s 10 principles in packs sold to millions of consumers each year.

The launch of the products coincides with the start of the “A Home for Every Plantation Worker” project, in which Mabroc Teas will work to improve the lives of 10,000 families involved in the production of the tea in Sri Lanka’s Kelani Valley.

The announcement was made at UN Headquarters in New York on March 19 , when the first packs of the new tea range were presented to Georg Kell, Executive Director of the UN Global Compact, by N.G. Wickremeratne, Chairman of Hayleys Group. More>>

Plantation agriculture needs consistency in growth

Daily Mirror /Thursday, March 22, 2007

By Dr. N. Yogaratnam
Consultant / NIPM

The plantation sector comprising Tea, Rubber, Coconut and Oil palm, a vital factor in the economy of Sri Lanka, is known to be influenced by many extraneous factors such as global economy, weather, demand/supply, key players, workforce agitation, cost of inputs, crude oil price etc over most of which the plantation management has very little control. Yet, the industry continued it expansion in 2006 though inconsistently, with positive growth rates in rubber, coconut and palm oil (see box 1). Fluctuating weather pattern had been a major contributory factor for the inconsistency in 2006. Water, whether too little or too much, is a constraint to crop production.

TEA

Tea, known to be very sensitive to moisture stress recorded a marginal decline in production by around 1.4 percent to reach 164.5 mn kg in the first half of 2006, and by the end of the year, a decline of 2.0 percent achieving a total production of 310.8 mn kg, which is a three year low and marginally below the record level of 317 Mn kg achieved in 2005.

Tea industry, however enjoyed its best ever year in terms of record export earnings and volume, being the largest exporter in 2006 though crop production was down marginally. Exports amounting to 327.3 million kilos in 2006 was the highest ever and reflect a 6% or 18.7 million kilos increase over 2005 level. Export earnings too were a record with Rs. 91.6 billion, up by over Rs. 10 billion from Rs. 81.4 billion in 2005. More>>

NCCSL seminar on new Companies Act

Daily News /Thursday, 22 March 2007

SEMINAR: The New Companies Act with significant changes will come into force shortly. The new Act will have special features on rights and duties of Shareholders, Directors and Secretaries. It will also require certain changes to the accounting procedure.

The Chamber will hold a seminar on Wednesday, March 28 from 2.30 pm to 5.30 pm in the NCCSL Auditorium, 450, D R Wijewardene Mawatha, Colombo 10.

Presentations will be made by Dr. Harsha Cabraal, R. Senadhirajah, Senior Partner of M/s Julius and Creasy, Aritha Wickramanayake, Senior Partner of Nithya Partners who have contributed immensely in preparing the New Companies Act.

Company directors, senior managers, financial managers, accountants and the company secretaries should be able to obtain information about the clauses of the New Companies Act from the above intellectuals. More>>

Chinese business delegation here for joint packaging material venture

Daily News / Wednesday, 21 March 2007

Swift follow up to President's visit to China:

Shirajiv Sirimane

Business visit: A business delegation from Kunming Import and Export Group (KIEG), China would be in Sri Lanka today to assess the investment potential in Sri Lanka with the private sector. This delegation is visiting Sri Lanka subsequent to the visit of President Mahinda Rajapaksa to China recently and is a follow up on the negotiations made during his tour.

President, Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FCCISL) Nawaz Rajabdeen who led the high-powered business delegation of 60 members said that the visit was highly successful.

He said that the visiting delegation is looking at setting up mini factories to produce packaging material (particle boards) from paddy husk. "They are looking at entering the Indian market from Sri Lanka exploiting the FTA," he said. In addition this company is also looking at manufacturing photo frames, chip board from paddy husk. More>>

Pakistan reduces tariff on betel leaves from Sri Lanka

Daily Mirror /Tuesday, 20 March 2007

Pakistan and Sri Lanka have agreed to reduce tariff concession on betel leaves and herbal cosmetics during the first meeting of joint committee of Free Trade Agreement held Friday.

According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Commerce the meeting was co-chaired by Humayun Akhtar Khan Minister for Commerce and Prof G L Peiris, Minister for Export Development and International Trade of Sri Lanka.

The Pakistani delegation included Secretary Commerce Syed Asif Shah, Joint Secretary Commerce Shahid Bashir and Shahzad Chaudhry High Commissioner for Pakistan in Colombo.

The Sri Lankan delegation included Memo Wijeratne Minister for Enterprise Development, Ms. Manel De Silva DG Commerce and others.

Humayun Akhtar stated that the officials of both governments had played a proactive role in resolving issues, which arose during the initial implementation phase of the agreement. More>>

Useful seminar on HACCP by Association of Small and Medium Exporters of Tea

Daily Mirror /Tuesday, 20 March 2007

The Association of Small and Medium Exporters of Tea (ASMET) will hold a half day seminar on HACCP on March 28 at 8.30 a.m at the National Chamber of Commerce Auditorium followed by a visit to a HACCP approved packing plant.

The subject chosen this year is how to meet the HACCP requirements for tea exports in the international trade. “This criteria is gaining considerable importance in the international tea trade. It is also fast reaching the end of the grace period given by EU, UK, USA, and Japan,” a spokesman for ASMET said. Many small time exporters were constrained to delay registration under HACCP due to the heavy initial cost .Therefore this seminar is geared to guide participants away from this belief with ways and means of achieving international standards . More>>

Tea surveillance

Daily News /Tuesday, 20 March 2007

MARKET STRONG: The Colombo Auction saw a quantity of 4.84Mkg being traded at last weeks sale of which 0.56Mkg were ex-estate teas. Overall, the market held strong as prices across the board maintained last weeks levels or gained further.

Of the international buyers, Iran and Iraq were particularly active in the low grown market, with Iran in particular snapping up on the Tippy invoices. Buyers from Turkey and Syria remained active in Pekoe buying which pushed prices up further.

Consequently, the low grown market maintained and at times grew stronger, week-on-week. More>>

Proposals for development of small and medium sector presented

Daily News /Tuesday, 20 March 2007

MEETING: A delegation from the Chamber of Small Industry lead by its President Aloy Jayawardene met Minister of Enterprise Development and Investment Promotion Dr. Sarath Amunugama and presented to him proposals for the development of exports in the Small and Medium sector. The meeting was held at the Ministry on March 9.

Mr. Jayawardene informed Minister Amunugama that the Small Chamber was in existence for the past 43 years. "Although we call ourselves small, most of our members started small, today they have grown to Medium and Large Scale units.

A draft bill prepared by the Ministry of Industrial Development approved by the Cabinet is presently with the Legal Draftsman and within the next couple of months it should go through Parliament and the Chamber will then be known as the "SRI LANKA CHAMBER OF SMALL AND MEDIUM INDUSTRY". More>>

Board to register six tea varieties on geographical origin

Daily News /Monday, 19 March 2007

Anjana Samarasinghe

TEA: The Sri Lanka Tea Board SLTB will give geographical indications for local teas in the international market.

Acting Director (Tea Promotion) of SLTB Chandraminie Bandara told Daily News the SLTB expects to register six types of local teas according to its geographical origin.

This will enable Sri Lanka to be much competitive in the international market and create a unique identification for local tea. A committee has been appointed for this initiative.

Revealing this year’s promotion plan of SLTB, Bandara said they have planned to participate in nearly 30 trade fairs through their overseas offices in Japan, Poland, Dubai and Russia. More>>  

Training skilled construction workers - a priority for State

Daily News / Thursday, 15 March 2007

Hiran H. Senewiratne

TRAINING: Training skilled workers for the construction industry will enable them to capture lucrative Middle Eastern job markets, against the backdrop of the construction boom there, Minister of Construction and Engineering Services, Rajitha Senaratne said.

“Today the construction industry is booming in the Middle-Eastern countries, therefore, we could export skilled workers for those markets, Minister Senaratne said at the launch of “Excon 2007”, annual trade fair of the Chamber of Construction Industry (CCI), which will be held from May 11 to 13 at the BMICH. Minister said that we must export professional services, which accrue to the benefit of the country.

He said the construction sector in Sri Lanka contributes to the country’s economy in a big way and CCI could act as a facilitator to promote private-public sector partnership for especially infrastructure projects. More>>  

Export Promotion Villages to boost exports

Daily News / Wednesday, 14 March 2007

Shirajiv Sirimane

BOOST FOR EXPORTS: The Government would establish Export Promotion Villages to boost Sri Lanka’s exports, said Minister of Export Development and International Trade Prof. G. L. Peiris.

Making the keynote address at the American Chamber of Commerce (AMCHAM) luncheon held in Colombo yesterday he said that the Government has identified that there is growing regional disparity in the country. While the Western Province enjoys the highest per capita income other provinces have a lower income.

“We have identified that one way to bridge this gap is to set up Export Promotion Villages which would contribute to make rural people access more money,” he said. This would also lead to enhancement of lifeprospects of the rural folk at the grass roots level. More>>

Dankotuwa the brand name that changed the town

Daily Mirror / Wednesday, March 14, 2007

Having started as a total OEM Factory 23 years ago, Dankotuwa today exports close to 40% under its own brand or co-branded. Close upon the heels of being accepted as one of Sri Lanka’s Superbrands, it has now entered the LMD’s list of Sri Lanka’s Most Valuable Brands [listed Companies].

Dankotuwa was named after the town of Dankotuwa which was originally famous for its special brand of local brew.

Dankotuwa’s branding journey commenced in the late ‘80s with the brand ‘Laklain’ for its local market designs replacing the original ‘DPL’ brand. In the early 90s the Company accepted that branding was the way to go, because as an OEM manufacturer you run the risk of losing your market overnight. It was recognised that first step would be to produce a good quality product and win the confidence of buyers through excellent service, before embarking on a branding exercise. Branding too prematurely would have unintended negative consequences. In 2000 a new superwhite body with many superior features was introduced. It had the characteristics of high quality German porcelain. The Company felt that the time was right to embark on branding. More>>

Dr. Amunugama meets with Hungarian business delegation

Daily Mirror / Wednesday, March 14, 2007

A top level delegation from Hungary held discussions with Dr. Sarath Amunugama – Minister of Enterprise Development and Investment Promotion on Monday at the ministry premises. Speaking at the meeting, Minister Amunugama pointed out he has had strong ties with Hungary in the past and was instrumental in strengthening the relationship between the two nations.

Highlighting the various advantages of setting up business in Sri Lanka, Minister Amunugama stated that the “Land availability in the island, solid infrastructure facilities such as the southern highway and the harbour development make Sri Lanka an attractive destination in the region for investment”.

The Minister also advised the delegation about the variety of incentives and benefits which can be acquired via Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) between India and Pakistan as well as the GSP+ Scheme with the EU. He highlighted that investors can maximize their profits by manufacturing and exporting their products through Sri Lanka and pointed out that investors can use Sri Lanka as a base to reach global markets such as India, Pakistan and Europe with duty free access through the FTAs and the EU GSP+ Scheme. More>>

NCCSL’s “Grow Your Business” project helps SMEs

Daily Mirror / Wednesday, March 14, 2007

The National Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka concluded the 3rd disbursement of assistance to some selected rural Small & Medium Enterprises in the underdeveloped regions of the country through its ‘Grow Your Business’ project at a function held in the Chamber auditorium recently.

Chief Guest for the occasion was Ms Alida Ritsema, First Secretary, Economic Affairs of Royal Netherlands Embassy. The meeting was chaired by Mr. D Eassuwaren, the President of the Chamber. “Grow Your Business” project was launched by the National Chamber in collaboration with the Royal Netherlands Government in 2006.

Main focus of the project is to uplift the businesses of rural sector Small & Medium Entrepreneurs with a view to creating more employment with increased production. More>>  

Providing market access to Sri Lanka's exports to China - A promising development

Daily News / Tuesday, 13 March 2007

MARKET ACCESS: The Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Sri Lanka is indeed most appreciative of a tangible development in connection with Mahinda Rajapaksa's recent State visit to the People's Republic of China for the 50th Anniversary Celebration of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

This is in regard to the significance of gaining market access for products from Sri Lanka which form, a part of the official communique issued at the conclusion of HE's visit.

We cannot get away from the reality that Sri Lanka needs to find more and new markets for our products. We are an export/import economy and following the rise in prices for essential imports such as petroleum, we need to earn more foreign exchange. More>>

How Sri Lanka will benefit by SAFTA

Daily News / Tuesday, 13 March 2007

Rohantha Athukorale is a marketer turned Economic Strategist. He is currently the Director Economic Affairs, in the Secretariat For Co-Ordinating the Peace Process(SCOPP), whilst reading for his doctoral degree.

OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE: What ever the critiques of the economic policy say week after week, we see reports from corporate Sri Lanka of an outstanding performance in their companies in the year 2006. Be it large multinational soap company or a local insurance organization, it has been outstanding year.

Some call it resilience of the Sri Lankan economy and character of a corporate individual. What ever reason one may call it, the outstanding corporate performance mirrors the reality at the ground end.

The performance of the private sector, re-assures the sentiments expressed at the recently concluded development forum. More>>

FCCISL praises mission to China

Daily Mirror / Tuesday, March 13, 2007

Providing market access to Sri Lanka’s exports to China – a promising development

The Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Sri Lanka is indeed most appreciative of a tangible development in connection with President Mahinda Rajapaksa’s visit to China for the 50th Anniversary Celebrations of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

This is in regard to the significance of gaining market access for products from Sri Lanka which form a part of the official communiqué issued at the conclusion of President’s visit.

We cannot get away from the reality that Sri Lanka needs to find more and new markets for our products.

We are an export/import economy and following the rise in prices for essential imports such as petroleum, we need to earn more foreign exchange, the chamber stated in a media release.

The one solution to this is expanding exports and also adding value to such exports. On the other hand Sri Lanka’s balance of trade with China is heavily weighed in favor of China. But our exports are virtually stagnant. More>>

Seminar on Opportunities to increase trade with India under CEPA

Daily Mirror / Tuesday, March 13, 2007

The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce is organizing a seminar to explore the opportunities to increase Trade in Goods and Services with India under the proposed Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement between the two countries.

The seminar is scheduled for March 22 from 8.45 a.m. to 12 noon at the Ground Floor Auditorium of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce.

CEPA would open up many opportunities to access the fast growing Indian consumer market and at the same time many challenges from the vibrant manufacturers and services providers in India. CEPA aims at further liberalizing trade in goods, by phasing out the existing negative (no concession) list of products under the Indo Lanka Free Trade Agreement and by liberalizing the services sector and the investment regime between Sri Lanka and India. More>>

Pepper industry and the Indo Lanka Free Trade Agreement

Daily Mirror / Monday, 12 March 2007 

By Gulam Chatoor Convenor –

Pepper Sub-Committee (SAPPTA)

The Indo Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement (ISFTA)

This agreement gives tariff free imports from Sri Lanka into India for Pepper (and other spices) leading practically to all Pepper from Sri Lanka ending up in India. Even before the ISFTA was introduced, India used to import, for decades, large quantities of Pepper for her extraction industry for the manufacture and export of Pepper oleoresins.

Since about a year now, the Indian Government has been trying to get Sri Lanka to agree to limited imports of Pepper from Sri Lanka into India by the introduction of an annual cap of 2500 tonnes. 

Spices & Allied Products Producers’ & Traders’ Association (SAPPTA) has opposed this proposal on the basis that firstly it is against the spirit of the ISFTA and secondly the quantity being imported by India for its domestic market is around 3500 tonnes (the other 3500 tonnes of the total imports of around 7000 tonnes is absorbed by the extraction industry and the export oriented units for processing and re- export from India). As the intended cap is for 2500 tonnes, the extra quantity that may be entering into the Indian domestic market would be around 1000 tonnes which is 2% of India’s current estimated production of 50000 tonnes, the official figure tabled at the annual International Pepper Community sessions at Kandy (Sri Lanka) in September 2006. More>>

Top price for Medawatta tea  

Daily News / Monday, 12 March 2007

Rattota group correspondent  

RECORD PRICE: The Rattota, Medawata state planation has got the highest offer for its BoP number 1 tea. This estate was able to earn Rs. 296 per kilo of tea at the auction held on February 28.

Although there were many estates of State Plantation Corporations and Janatha Wathu Sanwardhane Mandalaya which took part in the auction, Medawatta state plantation dominated the auction by establishing a highest bid for its number one quality tea. More>>

Lanka India Oil to export lube from Trincomalee

Daily Mirror / Monday, 12 March 2007

LIOC to increase investments in Sri Lanka; Lube market share to be upped by 3% in a year; unshaken by “disturbing conditions” in the East

By Sunimalee Dias 

Lanka India Oil Company in Sri Lanka is exploring opportunities to export lubricant oil to three main countries in Asia.

This will be carried out after commencing operations on their US$5 million lube blending plant in Trincomalee by June 30, the company’s Managing Director K. Ramakrishnan told the Daily Financial Times.

The lube blending plant is expected to generate 18,000 metric tonnes per year which would effectively mean the second player in the local lube market will be establishing itself further next to Caltex Lanka Lubricants Ltd. More>>

First review of Lanka Pak FTA this week

Daily Mirror / Monday, 12 March 2007 

The first ministerial review of the Sri Lanka Pakistan FTA will take place this week in Islamabad.

Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris will be heading the delegation to review the FTA with his counterpart in Pakistan from March 15-16. Prior to this review the officials’ level talks will be held today and tomorrow.

A large private sector delegation will accompany the minister on this tour. More>>  

Lanka at Cairo Fair

Daily News / Friday, 9 March 2007

A. G. PIYADASA

EXHIBITION: The Sri Lanka Export Development Board in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Embassy in Egypt is organizing Sri Lanka’s participation at the 40th Cairo International Exhibition 2007 to be held from March 21 to 30 at the Exhibition Ground Nazar City - Cairo, Egypt.

An official of the Sri Lanka Export Development Board said the EDB will meet 100% of the cost of stall rental with basic fixtures - fittings of selected small and medium scale exporters and 50% of the cost of stall rental with basic fixtures - fitting of selected large scale exporters. More>>

Germany supports a rice value-adding center in Ampara

Daily Mirror / Friday, March 09, 2007

A Rice Value Adding Center supported by the German Technical Cooperation (GTZ) on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) was formally inaugurated in Maradhamunai, Ampara on the February 26.

The centre is co-financed by the GTZ – assisted project “Promotion of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises” (PMSME) with the aim to connect short-term reconstruction to the perspectives of a longer term economic development.

According to the national Agriculture Research and Training Centre, Ampara has been the highest rice-producing district in Sri Lanka for many years, representing 12% to 15% of the national production. More>>

Tea auctions this week

Daily Mirror / Friday, March 09, 2007

Sale No.10 comprising of 4.5 m/kgs was concluded today.

Ex Estate offerings comprised of a similar volume to last week, totaling approximately 0.54 m/kgs. Quality of offerings were irregular. However, there were a few more airmail bids resulting in a fair range of better BOPs in particular gaining substantially. Overall BOPs encountered better demand particularly for a select range of better westerns which realized attractive prices. BOPs in some instances realized a premium over BOPFs which is quite an unusual trend compared to what was experienced in the recent past. BOPFs particularly the tea bag sorts were substantially lower as most packers were not operating at full steam. The better liquoring teas were supported by shippers to UK, Japan and the Continent. Shippers to CIS too were reasonably active but at lower levels.

A total of approximately 2.3 m/kgs came up for sale this week in the Leafy/Tippy catalogues. There was good demand all round. Better tippy varieties gained Rs.10-15 per kg whilst the cleaner secondaries though irregular were mostly firm. In the Leafy catalogues too Pekoes together with OP/OPAs met with good demand all round and sold at firm to dearer rates. OP1s/BOP1s too sold around last levels with the exception of a few high priced OP1s that were barely steady. Dubai, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Syria continued to operate together with CIS. More>>

Sri Lanka to benefit greatly from EU’s extension of ‘GSP Plus’

Daily News / Thursday, 8 March 2007

‘Lankan entrepreneurs being perceived positively’:

Hiran H. Senewiratne

GSP SCHEME: The European Union will consider extending the ‘GSP Plus’ trade agreement following its termination next year, to provide continuous access to markets for entrepreneurs in developing nations, Ambassador to the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Sri Lanka, Reynout Van Dijk, said.

“Sri Lankan entrepreneurs are being perceived in Europe positively. Therefore it is quite easy for them to enter Netherlands and other EU countries”, Dijk said at a meeting organised by the European Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka on Tuesday. The theme of the meeting was “Future of European Development Assistance and Trade”. More>>

Global rubber business continues to grow led by Asia Pacific

Daily Mirror / Thursday, March 08, 2007

By Dr. N. Yogaratnam, Consultant / NIPM

International Rubber Study Group’s (IRSG) recent estimates indicate that Asia-Pacific region has again become the dominant player in natural rubber ( NR) business in 2006 and is expected to continue beyond. Thailand, despite it’s political instability followed by the military coup, continues to be the leader in NR production. China, the largest NR and synthetic rubber (SR) consumer is on the verge of closing in on the USA for the leading global position in SR production.

Rubber production

Despite a marginal growth rate of 0.8% at the beginning of 2006, the aggregate of rubber output of NR and SR recorded an increase of 3.9% to reach an annual total of about 21.00 million tones in 2006. More>>

Global rubber business continues to grow led by Asia pacific

Daily News / Wednesday, 7 March 2007

Dr. N. Yogaratnam, Consultant/NIPM

International Rubber Study Group's (IRSG) recent estimates indicate that Asia-Pacific region has again become the dominant player in natural rubber (NR) business in 2006 and is expected to continue beyond.

Thailand, despite its political instability followed by the military coup, continues to be the leader in NR production. China, the largest NR and synthetic rubber (SR) consumer is on the verge of closing in on the USA for the leading global position in SR production.

Despite a marginal growth rate of 0.8% at the beginning of 2006, the aggregate of rubber output of NR and SR recorded an increase of 3.9% to reach an annual total of about 21.00 million tonnes in 2006. More>>

Germany supports a rice value adding center in Ampara district

Daily News / Wednesday, 7 March 2007

A rice value adding center supported by the German Technical Cooperation (GTZ) on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) was formally inaugurated in Maradhamunai, Ampara on February 26.

The centre is co-financed by the GTZ-assisted project "Promotion of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises" (PMSME) with the aim to connect short-term reconstruction to the perspectives of a longer term economic development.

According to the National Agriculture Research and Training Centre, Ampara has been the highest rice producing district in Sri Lanka for many years, representing 12 to 15 per cent of the national production. Most coastal rice mills in Ampara were severely affected by the tsunami of December 2004, which crippled the rice processing sector immensely. More>>

BOI plans Techno Park at Katunayake

Daily Mirror / Wednesday, March 07, 2007

By: Zazna Jihan

The Ministry of Enterprise Development and Investment Promotion has decided to put up a Techno Park for the IT investors who come to the country.

Therefore, the ministry has purchased an 18-acre land close to the Katunayake Airport. The investors could rent out one of the blocks from the Techno Park and while they improve the business they could shift their work place to another place “the investors do not feel difficulty in their transporting due the air port is close to the park,” said minister of Enterprise Development and Investment Promotion Dr.Sarath Amunugama. More>>  

Exploring the overseas market - a vital tool for expansion of trade

Daily Mirror / Tuesday, March 06, 2007

The Trade Fair Unit of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce while realizing the importance of the Sri Lankan business community exploring the overseas markets to expand their trading network, has organized a very useful seminar focusing on the opportunities available for exploring the overseas markets recently.

Whilst Mr. Samantha Ranatunge, Chief Operating Officer, CIC, the main speaker touched on the importance of exploring the overseas markets, opportunities to explore overseas markets with the assistance of CCC, drawbacks faced by potential exporters in making initial contacts overseas and possible advantages of joining outbound/inbound missions, Mr. George Perera, Deputy Director Marketing, of EDB spoke on the A – Z of selection, preparation and participation at overseas trade fairs. He stressed on the benefits of participating at International Trade Fairs and how to gear yourself towards this. More>>

A unique branding seminar

Daily Mirror / Tuesday, March 06, 2007

The discipline of branding is little understood. Yet it is a powerful tool that is used very effectively by multinationals and just a handful of Sri Lankan companies to market their products.

“Many marketers believe that branding and advertising is one and the same thing. This is simply not true” says Sharmila Cassim the Director Marketing of Superbrands Lanka.

“Independent of the Superbrand programme which unfolds later this month, we have seen the latest release of Sri Lanka’s most valuable brands in the current months issue of LMD. So, there is a lot of news related to brands happening this month. We therefore thought it would be very appropriate to have a seminar on branding in order to provide an opportunity for senior business managers and entrepreneurs a better understanding of this subject”. More>>

Echoing a new concept in rivaling other modes of marketing

Daily Mirror / Tuesday, March 06, 2007

By Sunimalee Dias

The specialized marketing concept involving simply getting in touch with your customer on a personal basis through an SMS is exactly what some people in the business of marketing are seeking to do these days. This has proved to generate better results with impressive boost to the demand for products marketed as well.

At Echo SMS it is this specialized marketing outfit based on the concept of mobile marketing with SMS used at its mode of communication for marketing promoting and advertising of products and services. More>>

EDB survey on ICT services export

Daily News / Monday, 5 March 2007

Anjana SAMARASINGHE

The Export Development Board (EDB) of Sri Lanka will conduct an export value survey on ICT services exports in the country.

A senior official of EDB told Daily News that there is no export value survey done in the ICT export sector in Sri Lanka and there is a necessity of having an export value survey in the industry.

The survey will help the ICT sector to have a clear idea of the industry and to identify its contribution towards the country’s economy.

The survey will also help EDB to organize its future promotional activities in exporting ICT services and finally to develop the industry. More>>

‘Excess exports VAT could be set off against other taxes’

Daily News / Monday, 5 March 2007

Un-refunded VAT (approved by the Commissioner General of Inland Revenue) paid in excess by exporters could be set off against other taxes.

This was disclosed at a seminar organized by the National Chamber of Commerce NCCSL last week.

The seminar was addressed by Deputy Commissioner General of Inland Revenue Department R.K.H. Kaluarachchi, Deputy Commissioner - VAT Inland Revenue Department D.S.K. de Costa, Finance Director, Millers Ltd S.R. Balachandran and Chartered Accountant and Tax Consultant N.R. Gajendran. More>>

China pledges greater market access for Lankan exports

Daily News / Monday, 5 March 2007

China expressed its readiness to continue with its assistance for Sri Lanka’s economic and social development to the best of its ability and pledged to encourage greater market access to Lanka’s exports in China to reduce Sri Lanka’s present trade deficit.

In a joint communiqué at the conclusion of President Mahinda Rajapaksa’s State visit to China, the two sides agreed that in the 50 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations, China-Sri Lanka relations have continued to strengthen despite changes in the international environment.

The two sides emphasized that expanded economic cooperation and trade would be conducive to the two countries common progress and prosperity. More>>

Streamline programmes focusing low-income groups - Minister

Daily News / Monday, 5 March 2007

Walter LIYANARACHCHI

New mechanisms and strategies have to be adopted and programmes focusing low-income groups streamlined to develop this export sector and international trade, Export Development and International Trade Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris said.

He said so addressing the Sri Lanka Export Credit Insurance Corporation Chairman and key officials of the corporation. More>>

Exclusive Brandix designs on catwalk

Daily News / Monday, 5 March 2007

Sri Lanka’s potential and capabilities in design, raw material and manufacture of apparel for discerning international labels is to be showcased in Colombo on Saturday by Brandix the fully-integrated total solutions provider in the local apparel industry.

The occasion will be ‘Fashion Statement 2007,’ the mega fashion show graced by top international designers, models and the reigning Miss World at Water’s Edge. Exclusive Brandix designs in three apparel categories will be modelled by international and local models in one of the segments of the show. More>>  

Apparel industry - a major boon to Lanka’s economy

Daily News /Friday, 2 March 2007

Walter Liyanaarachchi

GARMENTS:The Apparel industry which inherits a magnificent historical background, today contributes 53% of the total foreign exchange relieving the heat of the Government coffers to a larger extent, said Minister of Export Development and International Trade Prof. G. L. Pieris.

Prof. Pieris said so delivering the address in the capacity of the chief guest at the inaugural session of the 85th Textile Institute World Conference titled ‘Concept to Consumer’.

The Conference will continue till tomorrow.

Endorsing the observations made. More>>

Textile Institute World Conference kicks off

Daily Mirror /Friday, March 02, 2007

By Damayanthi Hewamanna

The 85th Textile Institute World Conference kicked off its three day forum at the Cinnamon Grand yesterday where a large number of delegates from many apparel industries worldwide came down to participate at this event.

“Today’s conference will have 67 technical papers from scholars, researchers and professionals from about 25 countries”, Conference Chair Professor Lakdas D. Fernando stated at the inauguration. They had received over 250 papers and after rigorous scrutiny by a board of international referees came down to a figure of 67. “The export industry completely in the hands of the private sector brings in more than 50 percent of the country’s foreign exchange”, Mr. Fernando stated. More>>

Blue Diamond Jewellery on show in China

Daily Mirror /Friday, March 02, 2007

Mrs. Sicille P C Kotelawala, Deputy Chairperson, Ceylinco Consolidated was part of the Economic Delegation accompanying President Mahinda Rajapakse during his official visit to China to mark 50 years of Sino-Lanka Diplomatic Relations. An Investment, Trade and Tourism Promotion Event organized by the Board of Investment and the Export Development Board was held in Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou respectively during this period. Here, the President viewing the Diamond and Jewellery collection of Blue Diamond Jewellery Worldwide who were selected by the Export Development Board to exhibit their diamonds and jewellery collection at the Trade exhibition. An excellent range of diamond jewellery was displayed at this exhibition. More>>  

JAAF ties up with Fulbright Commission on human capital strengthening

Daily News /Thursday, 1 March 2007

The Joint Apparel Exporter’s Forum (JAAF) has secured the services of the Fulbright Commission to provide direction and guidance in developing the education levels of the industry and to strengthen the competence of the human capital of the Apparel Industry.

Two consultants under the Senior Specialist Programme of the Fulbright Commission arrived in Sri Lanka on January 13.

Dr. Raymon Bruce and Dr. Sharon Bruce were on a 42 day visit where they studied the current frameworks implemented in our education system to better understand mechanisms of forging stronger private and state sector partnerships to improve the relevance of education in the current industrial context. More>>

Milk fish farming project could help save Rs. 250 m

Daily News /Thursday, 1 March 2007

Anjana Samarasinghe

Sri Lanka annually spends over Rs. 250 million to import fish bait for tuna fishing in the country.

National Aquaculture Development Authority (NAQDA) Director Nimal Chandraratne, told the Daily News that milk fish is used as bait for tuna fishing in Sri lanka.

These frozen milk fish have been imported from Indonesia and Philippines for tuna catching. More>>

World Textile Conference today

Daily News /Thursday, 1 March 2007

The 85th Textile Institute World Conference will be held in Sri Lanka at the Cinnamon Grand Hotel at 9.30 a.m. today.

The Textile institute World Conference which is a global textile event, will be held in Sri Lanka for the first time from March 1 to 3, 7 and will be a great opportunity for the entire Sri-Lanka industry to showcase its capabilities for the world to see, what Sri-Lanka has to offer, a press release said. More>>

Tea exports start 2007 on a negative note

Daily Mirror / Thursday, March 01, 2007

The country’s tea export sector has apparently begun the year 2007 on a negative note.

Forbes Tea Brokers said that exports in January amounted to 21.4 million kilos, down by 3.4 million kilos compared with the corresponding month of last year.

The unit FOB value for January ’07 of Rs.314.24 per kg shows a gain of Rs.40.40 per or 14.7% when compared to Rs.273.84 per kg of 2006.

In analysing the destinations, Forbes said CIS remains the largest importer notwithstanding the fact that it has imported a less volume of teas compared to the corresponding figures for last year. More>>

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