Sri Lanka’s efforts to revive large-scale manufacturing industries impacted by Cyclone Ditwah have come under the spotlight, with government and corporate leaders collaborating under a public-private partnership framework to accelerate industrial recovery.
High Level Review of Industrial Recovery
A high-level review meeting, chaired by Deputy Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Chathuranga Abeysinghe, brought together top corporate leaders and government officials to assess progress and challenges in restoring affected industries.
The meeting focused on two major initiatives:
- Industry Recovery Foster Program (IRFP)
- Industry Development Foster Program (IDFP)
These programs are designed to expedite rehabilitation for large-scale and medium-sized enterprises affected by the cyclone, ensuring continuity of production and safeguarding jobs.
Scope of the Impact
According to the Ministry’s newly launched data collection mechanism, a total of 16,476 inquiries have been recorded so far, comprising:
- 6,688 micro enterprises
- 5,625 small enterprises
- 3,642 medium enterprises
- 521 large-scale enterprises
Businesses impacted by the cyclone are urged to submit their details via www.industry.gov.lk or by calling 071 266 6660 before 2 p.m. on 16 December 2025 to be included in the recovery program.
Priority Areas for Recovery
Deputy Minister Abeysinghe emphasized that priority will be given to businesses demonstrating strong production, engineering, and logistics capabilities.
“We highly appreciate the private sector’s support during this national recovery effort,” he said, highlighting the critical role of collaboration between the government and industry leaders in rebuilding Sri Lanka’s industrial base.
Corporate Participation
Leading corporates participated in the discussions, including:
- Toyota Lanka
- Tokyo Cement
- MAS Holdings
- Brandix Lanka
- Aitken Spence
- Expo Lanka Holdings
- John Keells Holdings
- Ceylon Agro Industries
- DIMO
- Unilever Sri Lanka
- Prima Ceylon
- Nestlé Lanka
- Hemas Holdings
- Browns
- CBL
- Cargills
These companies are expected to play a key role in both operational support and knowledge sharing to aid recovery.
Assistance and Implementation Timeline
Under the initiative:
- Medium- and large-scale enterprises will receive technical and management support to restart operations.
- A dedicated operational committee will commence work next week.
- The recovery framework is expected to be fully operational within 30 days, providing structured assistance to rebuild industrial capacity and restore production.
Goal of the Initiative
The initiative represents a targeted and structured approach by the Government of Sri Lanka to:
- Rebuild industrial capacity damaged by Cyclone Ditwah
- Safeguard jobs and livelihoods
- Ensure continuity in production across affected sectors
- Strengthen public-private cooperation for national recovery
Deputy Minister Abeysinghe stressed that coordinated efforts between the government and top corporates are essential to ensure a swift and sustainable recovery.
Summary:
Sri Lanka is taking decisive steps to revive cyclone-affected industries through structured government programs and corporate partnerships. With over 16,000 affected enterprises identified and assistance mechanisms being rolled out, the country aims to restore production, protect jobs, and strengthen resilience against future disasters.