Welcome to CNCI

The Voice of Industry in Sri Lanka

We gained independence in 1948 after a long spell of years. This was an era when the business world had been fast moving with innovative advancement. The existing manual processes of local manufacturing were rapidly replaced by machines. They were gradually developed into manufacturing plants many of which were with foreign ownerships. At the time the local Industrialists were small timers compared with some of the giants who operate today. They had to pit their wits against big trading organizations, as Industry in Sri Lanka during that era was viewed with a condescending attitude. The large traders were all members of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce and the small Industrialists especially the Sri Lankan Nationals felt they needed a forum of their own to resolve issues in order to develop their ventures.

It was during this time of uncertainty that Mr. Cyril E. S. Perera an eminent lawyer came together with small industrialists to establish the Ceylon National Chamber of Industries. The first few Chairmen of that era were men of influence in the political field.

Eminent politicians such as Sir Claude Corea and Mr. Arthur Ratnayake succeeded Mr. Cyril E. S. Perera as Chairman. It can be understood now that the small industrialists knew the importance of political affiliation, as well as the value of administrative ability. Mr. K. Somasunderam next served for 5 years as Chairman during a period of change from 1965 to 1970.

It was during his time that the Ceylon National Chamber of Industries was incorporated by an Act of Parliament No. 10 in 1969.

A retired Civil Servant Mr. Edmund J. Cooray took over the reins of office in 1970.

It was during his time that the Ceylon National Chamber of Industries was incorporated by an Act of Parliament No. 10 in 1969...