Frequently asked questions

• What are some of the best business opportunities in Sri Lanka?

  Sri Lanka is a country with a lot of potential for business growth and development, especially in sectors such as tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, IT, and services.The tourism industry is one of the main sources of income and employment for the country. Investing in hotels or restaurants that cater to the diverse and rich culture of Sri Lanka can be a lucrative and rewarding business opportunity. Sri Lanka also has a thriving agriculture economy, with many businesses carrying out harvesting, packaging and exporting the products to the American and European markets. By finding profitable cultivated land such as tea, rubber and coconut, an investor can make good returns through agriculture investments. Manufacturing and Textile/Garments represents another sector to invest in, with ready-made factories and support industries around these sectors available for an investor to immediately invest and start generating profits.

• How can I find the best business for sale in Sri Lanka that suits my budget and goals?

  The best way to find the best business for sale in Sri Lanka is to use a reliable and comprehensive online platform. One such platform is Lanka Property Web, the leading business & property portal in Sri Lanka that helps you find the most suitable businesses that you can buy in Sri Lanka that match your budget and goals. You can browse through thousands of listings in Sri Lanka, filter them by location, price, size, type, and category, compare them with other similar listings, and contact the sellers directly through the website.

• How can I sell my business in Sri Lanka fast and easy?

  If you want to sell your business in Sri Lanka fast and easy, you need to follow some simple steps that can help you attract more buyers and get the best price for your business. First, you need to prepare your business for sale by making sure it is profitable, Second, you need to value your business by using a professional valuation service or a market-based approach that considers the income, assets, liabilities, and goodwill of your business. Third, you need to advertise your business for sale by using an effective online platform that can reach a large and relevant audience of potential buyers. One such platform is Lanka Property Web, the leading property portal in Sri Lanka.

• Where can I find more information and guidance on buying or selling a business in Sri Lanka?

  If you need more information and guidance on buying or selling a business in Sri Lanka, you can visit our property buying guide that provides you with useful tips and advice on how to buy or sell a property in Sri Lanka. You can also contact our customer support team that can assist you with any queries or issues you may have regarding buying or selling a business in Sri Lanka. We are always happy to help you with your property needs.

• Can foreigners buy and run a business in Sri Lanka?

  Yes, foreigners can buy and run a business in Sri Lanka, but they need to follow certain regulations and procedures depending on the type and size of the business. Some industries prohibit foreign ownership entirely, while others permit a maximum of 40% ownership, and some allow full ownership of up to 100% by foreigners. Foreigners also need to obtain approval from the Board of Investment (BOI) of Sri Lanka, which is the main agency responsible for promoting and facilitating foreign investment in the country. You can read more about the regulations from our �How to start a business In Sri Lanka (for foreigners)� guide.

• How can foreigners invest in a business in Sri Lanka?

  Foreigners can invest in a business in Sri Lanka by either starting a new business or acquiring an existing one. To start a new business, foreigners need to apply for a Business Visa, which is valid for three months and extendable up to one year and requires a passport, a return ticket, and proof of funds. To acquire an existing business, foreigners need to finalize the transaction with the seller and notify the relevant authorities about the change of ownership. Alternatively, foreigners can opt for the Golden Paradise Visa Program, which grants them a 10-year residency and allows them to invest in purchasing a luxury apartment, lands and buildings on a lease basis, a government approved investment, and in Sri Lanka Development bonds. The initial minimum deposit is USD 100,000 and the depositor can withdraw USD 50,000. This visa costs USD 2000 and can be renewed with the help of a professional service.

• How can I start a business in Sri Lanka?

  You can invest in a business in Sri Lanka by either starting a new business or acquiring an existing one. To start a new business, You need to choose the suitable business structure, such as sole proprietorship, partnership, or limited liability company, and register it with the Registrar of Companies. They also need to open a corporate bank account, obtain tax registration, and comply with other legal and regulatory requirements. To acquire an existing business, you need to negotiate the terms and conditions, and finalize the transaction with the seller. They also need to notify the BOI and other relevant authorities about the change of ownership, if it's a BOI registered company.

• How can I start a BPO operation in Sri Lanka?

  Starting a BPO operation in Sri Lanka involves harnessing the nation's educated workforce, strategic location, and favorable business environment. Begin with comprehensive market research and a well-crafted business plan, secure funding, and register your company. Set up the necessary infrastructure, recruit skilled professionals, and implement robust data security measures. With a focus on quality assurance and effective marketing, you can establish a successful BPO business in Sri Lanka that leverages its unique advantages for global success. For more details, read the full article on How to Start a BPO Business in Sri Lanka: Unlocking Opportunities in a Promising Destination

• How is a business valued?

  Discounted Cash Flow (DCF): This is the most common valuation method and it is based on the idea that the value of an investment is the present value of its future cash flows.

  Comparable Company Analysis: This method values a company by comparing its financial metrics to those of similar companies.

  Comparable Transaction Analysis: This method values a company by looking at the prices of recent acquisitions of similar companies.

  Asset-Based Valuation: This method values a company based on its assets, such as its property, plant, and equipment.

  Dividend Discount Model (DDM): This method values a company by discounting its future dividends.

  Sum of the Parts Valuation: This method values a company by breaking it down into its component parts and valuing each part separately.

  These are just a few of the many valuation methods that are used by investors and analysts. The best method to use will depend on the specific company being valued and the information that is available. If you would like to get your company valued or do due diligence on a company you're about to acquire, LPW's Research and Consultancy team, comprising both local and overseas experts in the fields of corporate valuation and M&A will be happy to help. You can contact the team from

• How can I get a business loan for my business?

  Here are some of the most common options:

  Commercial Banks: Commercial banks are the most common source of business loans in Sri Lanka. They offer a variety of loan products, including term loans, working capital loans, and equipment loans. The interest rates and terms of these loans will vary depending on the bank and the borrower's creditworthiness.

  Development Banks: Development banks are another option for business loans. They offer loans to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and other businesses that are considered to be of strategic importance to the economy. The interest rates and terms of these loans may be more favorable than those offered by commercial banks.

  Government Schemes: The government of Sri Lanka offers a number of schemes to provide financial assistance to businesses. These schemes can provide loans, grants, and other forms of assistance. The eligibility criteria for these schemes will vary, so it is important to check with the relevant government agency.

  Microfinance Institutions: Microfinance institutions provide small loans to entrepreneurs and small businesses. These loans are often used to start or expand a business. The interest rates and terms of these loans will vary depending on the microfinance institution and the borrower's creditworthiness.

  To get a business loan, you will need to submit a loan application to the financial institution. The application will require information about your business, such as its financial statements, business plan, and collateral. You can contact us for assistance with preparing your loan application and applying for a loan.