Visa Highlights Digital Growth Opportunities for Sri Lankan SMEs at National SME Forum
COLOMBO, September 18, 2026 — Visa has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the growth and digital transformation of Sri Lanka’s small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through its participation in Scale Up 2.0, National SME Forum 2026, organised by The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce.
The forum brought together SME owners, entrepreneurs, policymakers, financial institutions, investors, corporates and development partners to discuss practical ways to strengthen Sri Lanka’s SME ecosystem and help businesses expand sustainably.
Held under the theme “Connected. Competitive. Ready to Grow,” Scale Up 2.0 focused on areas including market access, value-chain integration, standards and certification, investment readiness, business expansion and digital innovation.
Visa participated as the Platinum Partner of the forum. Avanthi Colombage, Country Manager for Sri Lanka and Maldives at Visa, highlighted the growing importance of digital commerce, technology and secure payment infrastructure in helping SMEs improve efficiency, access new markets and compete internationally.
“SMEs are at the heart of Sri Lanka’s economic resilience and future growth,” Colombage said, noting that businesses are increasingly adopting digital tools to expand their operations and reach customers beyond their traditional markets.
She also pointed to rising demand among SMEs for simpler business solutions, seamless digital experiences, access to working capital and reliable cross-border payment capabilities.
As more Sri Lankan businesses explore international markets, digital commerce and globally connected payment systems are becoming increasingly important. Such infrastructure can help SMEs transact with overseas customers and suppliers while making payments faster and more transparent.
Colombage further noted that SMEs are increasingly looking for long-term business partners that understand their operational needs and can support them throughout their growth journey.
Krishan Balendra, Chairperson of The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, said the forum was designed to shift the SME discussion from ambition towards practical action.
He highlighted the importance of stronger connections to markets, finance, technology, standards and strategic partnerships to enable Sri Lankan businesses to expand and compete beyond traditional markets.
Deputy Minister of Industries and Entrepreneurship Development Chathuranga Abeysinghe said Sri Lanka’s SME sector has significant potential to contribute to economic growth, exports, innovation and employment.
He stressed the importance of digital adoption, improved access to finance and stronger cooperation between government, industry, financial institutions and development partners in creating an environment where SMEs can scale.
Visa’s participation in Scale Up 2.0 highlights the growing role of digital payments and technology in supporting Sri Lankan SMEs as they seek to expand locally and internationally.
