Expertise France, in collaboration with the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE), hosted a key Stakeholder Consultation Session on the “Challenges for Issuing Corporate Green Bonds in Sri Lanka” at the Galle Face Hotel, Colombo. The event drew over 75 participants and was organized under the EU Green Recovery Facility, a four-year initiative funded by the European Union (EU) and implemented by Expertise France.
The session focused on the critical role green bonds can play in mobilizing capital for climate action, supporting Sri Lanka’s net-zero commitments and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). Despite their potential, green bond issuance in Sri Lanka remains limited due to sector-specific financing gaps and low investor confidence.
Mr. Jason Taylor, Team Leader at Baastel, presented the findings of a study analyzing the challenges faced in issuing corporate green bonds. The study covered a range of issues, from financial gaps in key sectors to investor interest in green financial products. The consultation allowed stakeholders to engage with the recommendations and provide feedback to help fine-tune the proposed solutions.
Mr. Johann Hesse, Head of Cooperation at the European Union Delegation to Sri Lanka, spoke about the EU’s ongoing support for green finance initiatives. Ms. Kumudini Vidyalankara, Director of Environment Planning & Economics at the Ministry of Environment, emphasized the importance of strong policy frameworks to encourage green bond issuance. Representing the CSE, Ms. Punyamali Saparamadu, Senior Vice President, Commercial, discussed the exchange’s efforts in facilitating green bond listings.
The EU and CSE reaffirmed their commitment to developing Sri Lanka’s green bond market and supporting sustainable financial solutions in partnership with local stakeholders.
