A delegation of officers and member companies of the Hambantota District Chamber of Commerce (HDCC) visited the UK in early November 2010 seeking further trade opportunities for both countries.

The business delegation comprised 11 members, including the President of HDCC, Mr. Kumara Jayasinghe, and the CEO of HDCC, Mr. Azmi Thassim.

The North West [NW] International Trade Team of UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) created a programme for the visit that included a reception with the Lord Mayor of Manchester and sightseeing within the region.

UKTI NW works in close co-operation with the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce (GMCC) and Manchester Solutions, both of whom have had a close working relationship with HDCC since 2006.

On 3 November, UKTI NW hosted a business seminar in Manchester for the Sri Lankan business delegates and UK companies.

Martin Douglas, President of GMCC, welcomed the Sri Lankan delegation to the business seminar. He was followed by the Counsellor for Trade from the Sri Lanka High Commission in London, Sonali Wijeratne who provided an overview of the economic climate and trading opportunities in Sri Lanka. Azmi Thassim, CEO of HDCC then detailed new developments in the Hambantota area, with particular reference to the new port, airport and free trade zone. Finally, Steve Clarke of UK Company Cargo Overseas Ltd talked about his positive experiences of setting up a business in Sri Lanka.

The UK is one of Sri Lanka's major investors, ranking first in terms of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) from the European Union. The UK market also absorbs nearly 25% of global Sri Lankan apparel exports.