From Local Roots to Global Growth: Indhra Kaushal’s Marine Vision
On 7 August 2025 at 10:30 a.m., the London Grill at Cinnamon Grand hosted the Annual General Meeting of the Chamber of Marine Industries of Sri Lanka (CMISL). Industry members gathered to review the progress made during the past year and to discuss plans for the future development of Sri Lanka’s marine sector.
Indhra Kaushal was re-elected as Chairman of CMISL. He leads a group of industries including marine, recycling, plastics, and rubber, all important contributors to the national economy.
Kaushal opened the meeting by thanking members and highlighting key accomplishments.
“It is an immense privilege to address this chamber, which represents the skills and ambitions of our marine industry,” he said.
He noted that 2025 had been a year of significant expansion in water-based sports activities, both for local recreation and tourism promotion. These developments included new initiatives in diving and power boating, aimed at attracting visitors, generating revenue, and strengthening Sri Lanka’s maritime brand.
“We strengthened diver safety through the IODA diver program, ensuring professional standards for one of our most promising marine sports. We launched a locally built power boat that demonstrates what Sri Lankan hands and minds can create, adding fresh momentum to our nautical sports and leisure offerings. We also welcomed sailing yachts from Chennai, fostering cooperation within the Indian Ocean region.”
Referring to the recent Memorandum of Understanding with the Madras Yacht Club, Kaushal said:
“This agreement is more than signatures on paper — it is a foundation for collaboration and shared growth between our maritime communities.”
Looking ahead, he shared plans for infrastructure development:
“We are working to transform eight fisheries harbours into modern marinas. This is about opening our shores to visitors and promoting nautical tourism.”
Kaushal concluded his vision for the industry:
“Sri Lanka will not be a passenger in the global marine sector but a navigator — focused on sustainable innovation and expanding our export markets.”
The Chairman also announced the 10th Sri Lanka Boat Show, scheduled for 30th and 31st January and 1st February 2026, at the Port City Sail Lanka Boat Yard:
“This event will showcase the capabilities of our local boat manufacturers and marine service providers.”
Additionally, His Excellency Semih Lütfü Turgut, Ambassador of Turkey and Chief Guest, invited the Chamber to attend the Turkey Boat Show later in February 2026. The Ambassador committed to facilitating connections between Sri Lankan manufacturers and the Turkish Boat Association to explore new opportunities.
Mrs. S.W.C. Jayamini, Additional Secretary at the Ministry of Industry & Entrepreneurship Development and Guest of Honour, acknowledged the Chamber’s efforts:
“The Ministry is close to awarding the contract for a new slipway construction at Beruwala, and we will continue to support the upcoming boat show.”
Distinguished Attendees
The event brought together a cross-section of industry leaders, diplomats, and policymakers. Among them was Hon. Koenraad Werner M. Pringiers, Honorary Consul of the Kingdom of Belgium, whose longstanding support for Sri Lanka’s marine sector has been instrumental in bridging local industry with global opportunities. As a pioneer in marine manufacturing and an advocate for sustainable development, his presence underscored the vital role of international partnerships in the sector’s advancement.
Other attendees included:
- His Excellency Semih Lütfü Turgut, Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey
- Mrs. S.W.C. Jayamini, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Industry & Entrepreneurship Development
- Mrs. Indumini Kodikara, Director – Export Services, Export Development Board
- Ms. Manoja Dissanayake, Director – Industrial Products, Export Development Board
- Ms. D.V.G. Mangala Maduwanthi, Export Development Board representative for multiple product sectors
- Mr. Janaka Prasanna, General Manager, Ceylon Fisheries Harbours Corporation
- Miss B. Kunalini, Ministry of Industry & Entrepreneurship Development
- Dr. (Mrs.) Siddhika G. Senaratne, Director General, Sri Lanka Standards Institution
- Mr. Asanga, Director General, Merchant Shipping Secretariat
Kaushal ended with a call for collaboration:
“Together, we can enhance Sri Lanka’s position in the global marine market and drive sustainable growth.”
The meeting concluded with a clear commitment to innovation, partnership, and expanding both the commercial and recreational horizons of Sri Lanka’s marine industry under CMISL’s leadership.
