Sri Lanka Seeks Indian Expertise in API, MedTech and Supply Chain under New FTA

High Commissioner Maheshini Kolon, speaking at the Ambassador's Conference on Healthcare Technology and Pharmaceutical Manufacturing, emphasized Sri Lanka's strategic need for Indian expertise in active pharmaceutical ingredients (API), medical technology and supply‑chain management.

She noted that domestic production currently satisfies only a fraction of national drug demand, leaving room for Indian firms to contribute to API manufacturing, medical device production, laboratory equipment, and quality‑assurance systems.

The Sri Lankan government has placed the pharmaceutical sector among its top investment priorities, offering long‑duration tax incentives and expedited regulatory approval via the National Medicines Regulatory Authority. The Hambantota Special Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Zone was cited as a ready‑made hub for investors.

The India‑Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement facilitates duty‑free access for more than 50 categories of pharma products and medical devices into the Indian market, creating reciprocal benefits.

Kolon urged stakeholders to pursue technology transfer, skill‑building initiatives, joint research programs, and coordinated regulatory frameworks, underscoring that building manufacturing capacity close to markets is essential for health security and supply‑chain robustness. She also invited Indian participants to the Sri Lanka Expo 2027, scheduled for January 14‑17, 2027 in Colombo.