Sri Lankan ICT companies have further strengthened their presence in the European market through a strategic market exposure programme jointly organised by the Sri Lanka Export Development Board and Germany’s Import Promotion Desk Germany.
Five Sri Lankan technology firms participated in the initiative, which offered direct exposure to the German and Nordic markets while facilitating engagement with leading European industry stakeholders, investors, and technology ecosystems.
The programme commenced with participation at Hannover Messe, one of the world’s largest industrial and technology trade fairs. During the exhibition, the Sri Lankan delegation engaged in a series of pre-arranged business-to-business meetings with European companies, showcasing Sri Lanka’s growing capabilities in digital transformation, software engineering, artificial intelligence, and enterprise technology solutions.
Following the exhibition, the delegation travelled to Berlin, where participants took part in ecosystem tours, workshops, keynote sessions, and networking events focused on strengthening ties with Germany’s innovation sector. A dedicated pitching and networking session also enabled Sri Lankan companies to connect with European startups, investors, and technology experts while gaining valuable insights into the German startup ecosystem.
The programme later expanded to Stockholm, offering participants exposure to the Nordic innovation landscape. Delegates attended the Nordic Growth Summit and networking events hosted by Impact Hub. The group also participated in strategic discussions at Tech Arena and visited Nordea Bank to gain insights into fintech innovation, regional business culture, and opportunities for scaling operations within European markets.
According to organisers, the programme generated several promising business opportunities and strategic outcomes, including follow-up discussions for potential partnerships and collaborations. Participating companies also gained a deeper understanding of European market trends, buyer expectations, business practices, and emerging opportunities within the fields of artificial intelligence and enterprise technology.
HNB Assurance PLC (HNB Life) Records Strong 54% Gross Written Premium Growth in Q1 2026
HNB Assurance PLC (HNB Life) reported a strong performance for the three months ended 31 March 2026, continuing its growth momentum following the company’s recent rebranding and further strengthening its position within Sri Lanka’s life insurance sector.
The company recorded Life Gross Written Premiums (GWP) of Rs. 7.01 billion during the period, marking a significant 54 percent increase compared to Rs. 4.55 billion reported in the corresponding period of 2025. Net Written Premiums also grew by 54 percent to Rs. 6.69 billion, reflecting continued strength in new business generation and policy retention.
Total Net Income rose by 39 percent to Rs. 8.69 billion, supported by solid underwriting performance and stable investment income. Interest and dividend income contributed Rs. 2.05 billion during the quarter, highlighting the strength of the company’s investment portfolio.
HNB Life’s financial position also remained robust, with total assets increasing to Rs. 71.38 billion as at 31 March 2026, compared to Rs. 68.44 billion at the end of 2025. Financial investments grew to Rs. 64.39 billion, while the Life Insurance Fund expanded to Rs. 52.55 billion, reflecting continued growth in long-term policyholder funds. Total equity stood at Rs. 11.45 billion, providing a strong capital foundation for future expansion.
Profit After Tax for the quarter amounted to Rs. 0.21 billion and was reported prior to any surplus transfer from the Life Insurance Fund, which is typically carried out following the year-end valuation process. The company noted that profitability was affected by the prevailing low interest rate environment and fair value movements within its equity investment portfolio, in line with broader market conditions.
Commenting on the performance, Stuart Chapman stated that the company’s rebranding marked a significant milestone in its long-term strategic journey as part of the Hatton National Bank Group. He added that the company remains committed to disciplined and sustainable growth while leveraging the strength and stability of the HNB Group. He also expressed confidence in the company’s ability to continue creating long-term value alongside HNB General Insurance
despite evolving economic conditions.
Sri Lankan ICT Companies Strengthen Presence in European Markets
