Sri Lanka’s Jaffna peninsula seeks more trade and investment

Aug 18, 2013 (LBO) - Sri Lanka’s northern Jaffna peninsula, which has emerged from a 30-year civil war, has untapped potential for greater investment and trade officials said. "The area has a high cash flow where at least one member of the family or relations is living in overseas," Aasim Mukthar , general manager of Lanka Exhibition and Conference Services which is running the event said.

"The mobile penetration is also high due to lack of fixed connection in the area. So Jaffna is an ideal place to explore new businesses."

"We welcome all the new businesses and investments," K Pooranachandran, president of the Jaffna chamber of commerce and industry said.

"We are here to help them. The place is very conducive for businesses and new developments."

The Jaffna peninsula, which has a population of about 600,000 population, is now looking up businesses in the area linking with other areas in the island.

"Trade links have developed strongly," Pooranachandran said. "There is a very good link with Colombo and Jaffna.

"If you come to Jaffna you can buy anything you want. Anything is available in Jaffna."

He said Jaffna has seen strong economic