Global industrial automation leader Yokogawa has strengthened its presence in Sri Lanka by appointing Marlbo as its official channel partner, expanding local access to advanced industrial automation, instrumentation and measurement technologies.

The partnership was reinforced during a recent visit by a Yokogawa delegation to Sri Lanka, where representatives met with Marlbo's leadership and technical teams to strengthen collaboration and outline strategies for supporting the country's evolving industrial sector.

Recognised globally for its expertise in industrial automation, test and measurement, process control and digital solutions, Yokogawa serves a wide range of industries including power generation, oil and gas, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals and other process industries, where operational reliability, precision and safety are critical.

Under the partnership, Marlbo will provide Sri Lankan customers with direct access to Yokogawa's comprehensive portfolio of automation systems, precision instrumentation and industrial control solutions, backed by local technical expertise and after-sales support.

The collaboration is expected to enhance Sri Lanka's industrial capabilities by improving access to reliable measurement and control technologies that help increase operational efficiency, improve process accuracy and minimise equipment downtime.

Customers will also benefit from expanded availability of calibration, monitoring and automation solutions, supporting higher safety standards and improved performance across industrial operations.

A key focus of the partnership is the development of stronger local technical support. With Marlbo serving as Yokogawa's authorised channel partner, businesses will have easier access to technical consultation, application engineering, system integration and after-sales services, reducing reliance on overseas support while enabling faster response times.

During their visit, the Yokogawa delegation and Marlbo representatives discussed market development strategies, customer engagement initiatives and opportunities to further strengthen technical collaboration. The discussions also focused on adapting Yokogawa's global expertise to meet the specific needs of Sri Lanka's industrial landscape.

The strategic alliance reflects both organisations' shared commitment to supporting Sri Lanka's industrial growth through innovative automation technologies, reliable engineering solutions and enhanced local customer support.
First Capital Startup Nation by Hatch Returns with Up to USD 1 Million in Funding
Hatch, Sri Lanka's largest startup ecosystem enabler, has partnered once again with First Capital Holdings PLC, a subsidiary of the Janashakthi Group (JXG), to launch the 2026 edition of First Capital Startup Nation by Hatch, expanding the programme into a regional platform while continuing to strengthen Sri Lanka's innovation ecosystem.

Following the success of its inaugural edition, the initiative returns for a second consecutive year with an enhanced focus on fostering entrepreneurship, connecting founders with investors, and providing access to funding opportunities of up to USD 1 million.

For the first time, the programme extends beyond Sri Lanka, bringing together startups, investors, mentors, ecosystem builders and industry experts from across South Asia. While maintaining its commitment to supporting Sri Lankan entrepreneurs, the expanded initiative aims to promote cross-border collaboration, knowledge sharing and regional business growth.

The programme has already attracted more than 250 applications from Sri Lanka, India, Nepal and Bangladesh, highlighting its growing regional appeal. Strategic ecosystem partners include Founder Startup House (formerly Draper Startup House) from India, Pool Technologies from Nepal and Turtle Venture from Bangladesh.

As a leading player in Sri Lanka's capital markets, First Capital Holdings continues to expand its role in supporting the country's startup ecosystem by offering expertise in capital markets, investment advisory, fundraising and investor readiness. Through the programme, participating startups will gain strategic guidance, mentorship and improved access to growth capital required to scale their businesses sustainably.

Representatives from First Capital and Hatch said the continued partnership reflects a shared vision of creating an environment where entrepreneurs can innovate, access meaningful opportunities and compete confidently at both regional and global levels.

By combining First Capital's financial and investment expertise with Hatch's extensive experience in startup acceleration and ecosystem development, the initiative aims to empower high-potential startups while contributing to Sri Lanka's long-term economic growth and innovation landscape.
Yokogawa Strengthens Presence in Sri Lanka Through Strategic Partnership with Marlbo