Sri Lanka's main commercial and administrative capital and the key gateway for trade — home base for plastics, rubber, packaging, garments, FMCG, tea and agri-export industries.
English is widely used in business; Sinhala and Tamil are the national languages. Business cards and materials in English work everywhere.
The Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). Cards are accepted at hotels and larger establishments; carry some cash for taxis and small purchases. ATMs are widespread in Colombo.
Tropical, warm and humid — light, breathable clothing. Business meetings run smart casual to formal; carry a light layer for air-conditioned halls.
Standard business-travel precautions apply. Carry travel insurance and personal medication; consult your doctor on vaccinations. Use registered taxis or app cabs at night.
Polite, relationship-oriented and punctual. Handshakes and business cards are standard; a little patience in negotiation goes a long way.
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