Construction industry, lead sector for economic growth, says Dr. Amunugama
View(s):The government considers the construction industry as a lead sector for economic growth, says Dr. Sarath Amunugama, Minister of International Monetary Cooperation and Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning.
Speaking at the launch of the Build SL 2014 held at the Taj Samudra in Colombo last week, he said: “During the last six years the industry has supported the economy of the country. There is steady growth in the construction, tourism, information technology and agriculture sectors. The construction industry has cross connections with the tourism sector.”
He also noted that 2.5 million tourists by 2016 require adequate hotels and resorts. New tourist complexes are coming up. During the next couple of years there will be a spurt in the construction sector. Also the industry needs to look at finance.
Chamber of Construction Industry (CCI) President, Surath Wickramasinghe said an infrastructure development programme needs to be set up in the country. The country needs a different outlook to promote tourism by setting up about four to five development projects in different parts of the island. Also we need to introduce a regulatory authority, he added.
Asian Development Bank Country Director, Rita O’Sullivan who was the Guest of Honour at the event said, “After the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) there is hope for investments in the country.” New technologies need to be adapted. Everyone in the construction industry should not be independent in this evolving industry, she noted.
The fourth edition of the Construction Industry Directory and Catalogue was launched at the event. The directory will be published in 2014 and it will carry information of more than 500 business establishments.
The exhibition will be organized with the objective of highlighting the positive growth and development that has taken place recently in both urban and rural areas. In addition it will focus on other mega projects that will change the perspective of Sri Lanka in the years to come.
This 10th exhibition will be held from 30th May to 1st June 2014 at the BMICH with the participation of the stakeholders representing different sectors of the construction industry with international participation.
(RM)