The Complex Journey of Building and Expanding a Business in Sri Lanka

Georgiana Mart

Published on 06 December 2024

Expanding to a new country is a bold business decision. It requires courage, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace the unknown. When I expanded to Sri Lanka, I was captivated by its vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and the warm smiles of its people. However, stepping into the entrepreneurial world here was an entirely different story—one filled with challenges I had not anticipated.

1. A New Land, A New Set of Rules

Moving to Sri Lanka meant not only adjusting to a different climate and cuisine but also navigating a business environment that operates on its own unique rules. For foreign entrepreneurs, the learning curve is steep. Regulations can be opaque, and navigating bureaucracy often requires insider knowledge that outsiders simply don’t have.

Language barriers compound the issue. Although English is widely spoken in professional settings, the nuances of Sinhala and Tamil—the two primary languages—can create misunderstandings. This becomes even more evident in legal and financial matters, where mistranslations or lack of clarity can lead to costly mistakes.

Solution: Take the time to learn about the local business environment. Hiring a trusted local consultant or partner can be invaluable for navigating these complexities. Building relationships with bilingual professionals can also help bridge the communication gap and prevent potential issues.

2. Challenges Unique to Women Entrepreneurs

As a woman entrepreneur, the obstacles multiply. Gender bias is a reality that many women face worldwide, but in Sri Lanka, it’s exacerbated by traditional attitudes toward women in leadership. In male-dominated industries, gaining respect and trust often requires proving your worth over and over again.

Building relationships with new clients and partners frequently means navigating skepticism about your capabilities, especially as a foreign woman. Networking events and business meetings sometimes feel like uncharted territory, where women’s voices are often overlooked or undervalued. Establishing credibility in such an environment takes relentless effort and resilience.

Solution: Seek out local and international organizations that support women entrepreneurs. By joining these networks, you can connect with others who share your challenges and learn strategies for overcoming them. Showcasing your achievements consistently can also help combat bias and build your reputation.

3. The Dark Side of Doing Business

One of the most disheartening aspects of my journey has been the rampant financial dishonesty I’ve encountered. For foreign investors and entrepreneurs, the risk of being overcharged or outright cheated is alarmingly high. Whether it’s inflated prices, hidden fees, or unscrupulous partners, the underlying assumption seems to be that foreigners are walking ATMs.

I have faced situations where trusted business partners manipulated contracts to their advantage or suppliers conveniently “misremembered” agreed-upon terms. Navigating this landscape requires constant vigilance and a sharp eye for red flags.

Solution: Conduct thorough due diligence before entering into any agreement. Verify credentials, cross-check references, and always seek professional legal advice. Establish clear terms and document every transaction to protect yourself against potential disputes.

4. Finding Resilience and Moving Forward

Despite these challenges, I’ve learned invaluable lessons along the way. The hurdles have shaped my approach to business and strengthened my resilience. I’ve developed strategies to adapt and thrive in an unfamiliar environment, turning obstacles into opportunities for growth.

For instance, I’ve found great value in building a trusted local network. By surrounding myself with individuals who genuinely want to see me succeed, I’ve been able to navigate challenges more effectively. Collaboration with other entrepreneurs, both local and international, has also provided fresh perspectives and innovative ideas.

Solution: Foster relationships with like-minded individuals who understand your journey. Whether it’s joining professional groups, attending networking events, or participating in workshops, these connections can provide the support and inspiration needed to keep moving forward.

5. A Road Worth Traveling

While the challenges of building and expanding a business in Sri Lanka have been significant, they have also been deeply rewarding. I’ve grown as a person and as a professional, discovering resilience I didn’t know I had. The journey is far from over, but I’m optimistic about what lies ahead.

To other women considering entrepreneurship in a new and unfamiliar land: don’t let the difficulties deter you. With preparation, persistence, and a strong support system, it is possible to overcome the obstacles and build something meaningful.

Solution: Stay focused on your long-term vision. While the challenges can feel overwhelming at times, they are part of a journey that leads to growth and success. By embracing these experiences, you can build a business that reflects your values and aspirations.