Cyclone Ditwah has created an unprecedented national disaster in Sri Lanka, leading to severe disruptions across multiple economic sectors. The cyclone has significantly impacted industrial operations, supply chains, and export activities, highlighting the urgent need for coordinated recovery initiatives.
In response, the Board of Investment of Sri Lanka (BOI) has assumed a leadership role in assessing the damage sustained by BOI-registered enterprises and determining the necessary support for a swift recovery.
The BOI is currently undertaking a comprehensive evaluation to identify the specific support required by affected enterprises. This assessment aims to facilitate the early resumption of production and export activities. As an initial measure, the BOI gathered detailed data from impacted companies to gauge the extent and nature of their losses.
Subsequently, on December 19, 2025, the BOI hosted a special impact assessment forum at its auditorium. The event convened 36 participants representing 26 BOI-registered enterprises that were adversely affected by Cyclone Ditwah. The primary objective was to engage directly with these businesses, enabling the BOI to gain firsthand insights into damages to property, machinery, equipment, and essential infrastructure, as well as to explore potential avenues for support.
The forum provided an important platform for enterprises to share their experiences, challenges, and immediate needs. This dialogue marked a significant step toward formulating effective recovery strategies, identifying relief measures, and fostering closer collaboration between the BOI and other government agencies.
During the event, BOI Chairman Mr. Arjuna Herath and Director General Ms. Renuka M. Weerakoon reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to assisting affected industries during this critical period. They emphasized that the BOI would utilize all available resources within its mandate to support enterprises in overcoming the setbacks caused by the cyclone, restoring operations, and advancing recovery efforts.
To further assist affected businesses, the BOI will establish a 24/7 support unit at the Investor Services Department, Level 06, West Tower, World Trade Center. This unit will provide ongoing and expedited assistance to enterprises, including support with import and export approvals and the management of damaged goods.
The Chairman also indicated that key issues will be discussed with the Ministry of Finance to ensure the implementation of appropriate policies, financial assistance, and effective inter-agency collaboration. These measures aim to support the rapid recovery and long-term sustainability of BOI-registered businesses impacted by Cyclone Ditwah.
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