Sri Lanka's Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development has called on Sri Lankan entrepreneurs based in Australia to invest in and support the country's economic recovery, highlighting newly established business-friendly policies.

Sri Lanka's Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Sunil Handunneththi has made a direct appeal to the country's entrepreneurial diaspora in Australia, urging them to contribute to the nation's industrial and technological development. Speaking at the Sri Lankan Entrepreneurs Night 2026 event organized by the Australia–Sri Lanka Business Forum in Melbourne, Handunneththi emphasized the critical role overseas-based investors and business leaders can play in addressing Sri Lanka's current economic challenges.

The minister outlined a vision for a production-based economy and suggested that Sri Lankan professionals abroad possess valuable assets needed for such transformation. He specifically invited diaspora members to bring capital, technical knowledge, and international business experience back to Sri Lanka, framing investment opportunities as part of the country's broader development strategy.

Handunneththi characterized the current economic environment in Sri Lanka as conducive to business, describing it as investment-friendly, transparent, and free from corruption. He underscored the importance of strengthening industrial and technological sectors as foundations for sustainable economic growth. The event drew participation from diplomatic and business circles, including Sri Lankan Consul General in Melbourne Pradeepa Saram, Australian Federal Parliamentarian Cassandra Fernando, and various officials and business leaders.