SEC intensifies push to bring SMEs to capital market, citing growth and legacy benefits

The Securities and Exchange Commission of Sri Lanka (SEC) is mounting a significant drive to encourage more small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to list on the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE), positioning the capital market as a crucial engine for economic recovery and corporate longevity.

- By NISHEL FERNANDO

The initiative was highlighted by SEC Chairman Senior Professor Hareendra Dissabandara, during his keynote address at an issuer forum held in Colombo recently.

The event themed ‘Innovative Businesses To Propel Economic Growth’ was a collaborative effort by the Trade Ministry, Registrar of Companies, SEC and CSE.

Addressing the business leaders, Prof. Dissabandara emphasised that the SMEs and family-run businesses are the “foundation and backbone” of Sri Lanka's economy, contributing 52 percent to the nation’s GDP and providing 45 percent of its employment. However, he acknowledged that these vital enterprises often face persistent challenges in funding growth, managing succession and professionalising their operations.