21/08/2026
A Major Milestone for Sri Lanka’s Biotechnology Industry: 1st Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the National Biotechnology Industry Association (NBIA) was held at SLIBTEC
Marking a significant step forward for Sri Lanka’s biotechnology sector, the Sri Lanka Institute of Biotechnology (SLIBTEC) was honoured to host the 1st Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the National Biotechnology Industry Association (NBIA), affiliated with the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce (CCC), on 20 August 2026.
This historic gathering brought together key stakeholders from industry, academia, and government institutions, marking an important milestone in advancing biotechnology innovation and strengthening collaboration across Sri Lanka’s biotechnology ecosystem.
Key Highlights of the Day:
The members were addressed by Mr Rizvi Zaheed, President of NBIA, who outlined the Association’s achievements and activities to date, while setting out its key priorities and plans for the year ahead.
Prof. Ajith de Alwis, Professor of Chemical and Process Engineering at the University of Moratuwa, was appointed as the Pro Tem President to preside over the proceedings. The Office Bearers and Executive Committee Members for 2026–2027 were subsequently appointed.
Mr Sujeewa Sumanasena, Director of Premium International (Private) Limited, was appointed as the new President of NBIA. In his inaugural remarks, the new President emphasised the importance of strengthening industry–academia collaboration, fostering innovation and technology development, and positioning biotechnology as a key driver of Sri Lanka’s future economic growth and high-tech exports.
The vote of thanks was delivered by Ms. Thathsara Dalukgoda, representing the CCC Secretariat.
Following the AGM, Prof. Ajith de Alwis delivered a presentation for the industry participants, providing an overview of the history, evolution, and strategic importance of NBIA and the broader National Biotechnology Initiative. The presentation highlighted Sri Lanka’s existing biotechnology landscape, including the growing biotechnology industry, academic capabilities, national biotechnology policy and roadmap, as well as the potential for biotechnology to contribute significantly to the country’s high-tech export aspirations.
SLIBTEC Insights:
Mr Keshawa Yapa, Assistant Manager – Business Development & International Relations at SLIBTEC, presented SLIBTEC’s strategic role in strengthening Sri Lanka’s biotechnology ecosystem through its multidisciplinary capabilities, expertise, and state-of-the-art infrastructure.
SLIBTEC also shared its broader vision of supporting research, innovation, technology development, and commercialisation, while serving as a key component of the emerging Sri Lanka Biotechnology Innovation Park and the wider national biotechnology innovation ecosystem.
Facility Visit:
The event concluded with a visit to SLIBTEC’s state-of-the-art laboratory facilities, guided by Dr Tharangika Bowange, Laboratory Manager, SLIBTEC, providing participants with an opportunity to explore the Institute’s technological capabilities and identify potential avenues for collaboration, innovation, technology transfer, and industry engagement.
We extend our sincere appreciation to all NBIA members, the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, distinguished guests, and stakeholders who joined us for this significant occasion. Together, we look forward to building a vibrant, innovative, and globally competitive biotechnology ecosystem for Sri Lanka.
