Sri Lanka is grappling with widespread economic disruption in the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah, with industrial operations, supply chains and export activities among the hardest hit. As recovery efforts gather pace, the Board of Investment of Sri Lanka (BOI) has stepped up engagement with affected industries to assess damage and accelerate the resumption of production and exports.
The BOI is currently carrying out a comprehensive evaluation to identify the support required by BOI-registered enterprises impacted by the cyclone. As an initial measure, detailed data has been collected from affected companies to determine the extent and nature of losses, including damage to property, machinery, equipment and critical infrastructure.
As part of this process, a special impact assessment forum was held on December 19, 2025, at the BOI Auditorium. The forum brought together 36 participants representing 26 BOI-registered enterprises adversely affected by the cyclone. The discussions enabled direct engagement between the BOI and industry representatives, providing first-hand insights into operational challenges and immediate recovery needs.
The forum also served as a platform for enterprises to share experiences and outline urgent requirements, marking a key step toward formulating targeted recovery strategies, identifying relief measures and strengthening coordination with other government institutions.
Addressing the gathering, BOI Chairman Arjuna Herath and Director General Renuka M. Weerakoon reaffirmed the BOI’s commitment to supporting affected industries. They emphasized that the institution would extend all possible assistance within its mandate to help enterprises overcome setbacks, restore operations and move toward recovery.
To further support affected investors, the BOI announced the establishment of a 24/7 support unit at the Investor Services Department, Level 06, West Tower, World Trade Center Colombo. The unit will provide continuous and expedited assistance, including facilitation of import and export approvals and guidance on handling damaged goods.
The BOI Chairman also noted that key issues would be taken up with the Ministry of Finance to ensure appropriate policies, financial assistance and inter-agency coordination are in place to support the swift recovery and long-term sustainability of BOI-registered enterprises affected by Cyclone Ditwah.
