Research Intelligence Unit (RIU) successfully concluded its prestigious investor forum in the U.K. in association with the Sri Lankan High Commission in London. Under the theme of ‘Bounce Back Stronger’, it was an effort to rebuild confidence among the Diaspora and foreign investors and reassure the world that Sri Lanka is a safe place to invest, with the sponsorships of CHEC Port City (Platinum sponsor), Iconic Galaxy by Apurva Natvar Parikh Group, Capital Trust Residencies, Trends Lanka, Melache’, Colombo City Centre, Dusit Thani and Cinnamon Air.

The event was graced by the participation of over 100 distinguished industrialists and professionals with planned or existing real estate investment interests in Sri Lanka. The opening address was delivered by H.E. Manisha Gunasekare, High Commissioner, SLHC- London. Subsequently, a message of endorsement from Hon. Minister Eran Wickramaratne – State Minister of Finance, was read out at the event. His message conveyed an assurance to potential foreign investors as to how security measures have been consolidated following the terrorist attacks and requested to focus on the country’s fundamentals – the macroeconomic factors- which are moving in the right direction, with major reforms to institutionalise strong democratic governance.

Roshan Madawela (CEO-RIU) shared valuable insights on the recent trends in the Sri Lankan real estate market which were of importance to potential foreign investors.

Furthermore, guest presentations were made by Liang Thow Ming, CHEC Port City; Rohan Parikh, Iconic Galaxy by Apurva Natvar Parikh Group; Thushan Wickramasinghe, Capital Trust Residencies, highlighting the positive perspectives as foreign investors in Sri Lanka, the demand for affordable luxury and how Colombo is transformed and repositioned by their premium projects as a perennial favourite ‘second home’ for the U.K. diaspora.

Panel discussions mainly focused on residential market in Colombo, possibility of incorporating sustainable energy in residential constructions, regulations and support system for the diaspora (with or without dual citizenships) investors in Sri Lanka and simply demystifying the investment proposition. Mr. Nihal Fernando – Project Director, Colombo Port City Project, Ministry of Megapolis & Western Province Development, was also a part of the panel discussion to clarify how the government is keen to support the Sri Lankan real estate market to grow and to attract foreign investment into the island.

The RIU hosts international investor forums with the aim of connecting the Sri Lankan diaspora and international investors with Sri Lankan real estate developers, which facilitates FDI into Sri Lanka. It is RIU’s vision to position Sri Lanka as an attractive international investment destination for investors with or without any connection to Sri Lanka.  The next event is scheduled for August at the Maldivian High Commission in Colombo.