Sri Lanka has great potential in many areas with both the tourism and the business sectors sitting high on the list. However, success depends largely on the positive mentality of those involved and the big question asked by Prasanna Perera, Senior Marketing Lecturer at SLT is "after 30 years of war, are Sri Lankan businesses ready?"

During these times of worldwide economic recession the mentality surrounding many areas of business and marketing is predominantly negative with the impressions from abroad infiltrating the Sri Lankan world of business, and putting many people off. However, not all of the problems which are so prevalent in the US and throughout the rest of the world affect Sri Lanka, and they should not deter people in making business discussions.

With the end of the 30 year civil war and the many prospects to expand, now is a great time for those innovative people to seize the moment and develop the many business opportunities on offer. Prasanna Perera and L P M Balapitiya, CEO of SLT are working together in promoting and creating awareness of these business opportunities throughout the country. Sri Lankan business leaders have shown a strong resilience in dealing with extreme and unexpected conditions and circumstances, and are undaunted when faced with a challenge.

Areas with plenty of opportunities include the construction industry, retail, telecommunications, and of course the resurgence of the tourist and hospitality industries which look set to become huge over the next few years. These last two areas require smart thinking, good marketing and promotion in order to meet the influx of tourists who will undoubtedly come flocking now that the war is over.