Export segment: Pushpika Janadheera reappointed SLAMERP Chair
The Sri Lanka Association of Manufacturers and Exporters of Rubber Products (SLAMERP) has reappointed Dipped Products PLC Managing Director Pushpika Janadheera as its chairperson at the association’s 15th Annual General Meeting.
SLAMERP is the leading industry body for Sri Lanka’s value-added rubber products sector, which contributes $ 1 billion in export earnings while strengthening the country’s position as a global supplier of high-quality rubber products. The association represents manufacturers and exporters in the rubber sector, promotes market expansion, and supports efforts to improve global market access for Sri Lankan products.
Under Janadheera’s leadership, SLAMERP has taken clear and proactive positions on challenges faced by the sector. The association called for immediate Government engagement when the US announced tariffs on Sri Lankan rubber imports, a development that threatened export competitiveness and the livelihoods of thousands of families linked to the rubber value chain. SLAMERP also raised strong concerns regarding the proposed removal of the SVAT scheme, cautioning that the change would create severe cash-flow pressure for SMEs, and exporters unless a tested refund mechanism was in place.
The association works closely with the Ministry of Plantation Industries, and the Export Development Board to expand market access and support national export objectives aligned with Sri Lanka’s 2030 roadmap.
Commenting on his reappointment, Janadheera said: “I am honoured by the confidence placed in me by the membership. Our industry is navigating a challenging global environment, which highlights the need for collaboration, innovation, and strategic diversification. SLAMERP remains committed to supporting manufacturers and enhancing the competitiveness of Sri Lanka’s value-added rubber sector.”
Janadheera, the Managing Director of Dipped Products PLC, joined the company in 2017 as Director of Operations and was promoted to Deputy Managing Director in 2020 before taking on his current leadership role in 2023. His career includes senior positions at Richard Pieris Tyre Company and Associated Motorways. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka, an Associate Member of CIMA UK, a Chartered Global Management Accountant, and holds a BSc in Accountancy and an MBA from the University of Sri Jayewardenepura.
The AGM also introduced the proposed office bearers for 2026-2027, including Dr. Eng. Sisira Ranatunga as Director General, Chinthaka Wegapitiya as Vice Chairperson, Channa De Silva as Secretary, and Palika Chandrajeewa as Treasurer.
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