SLASSCOM Empowers local IT/BPM companies to establish a strong footprint in the Saudi Arabian Market

The Sri Lanka Association of Software and Services Companies (SLASSCOM) recognizes the potential for Sri Lankan IT/BPM companies to expand globally and increase their revenue through exports. However, the process of identifying and pursuing business opportunities in foreign markets can be challenging and resource-intensive for these companies. To address this issue, SLASSCOM has created a global network of channel partners who can help connect Sri Lankan IT/BPM companies with potential customers and business partners in various regions of the world. These channel partners are established businesses and organizations with a strong presence and network in their respective markets, providing a valuable avenue for Sri Lankan companies to explore new business opportunities and expand their international reach. Through the facilitation of this global network, SLASSCOM has helped many Sri Lankan IT/BPM companies overcome the obstacles of international business and supported them to achieve their export revenue goals.

Having established strong synergies for the sector in Saudi Arabia, SLASSCOM recently sent a special delegation to the LEAP conference in Saudi Arabia to continue their efforts of strengthening these connections. The primary aim of the visit was to support companies in meeting passionate startup founders, scaleup professionals, researchers, and investors. The SLASSCOM team Mr. Shehan Selvanayagam, Board Director of SLASSCOM, as well as Mrs. Lakshmi Jaliyagodage, who is the Senior Manager of the forum worked together with Mr Sanjeewa Pattiwila, Minister (Commercial) Sri Lanka Embassy Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia who was extremely supportive to make the visit a success.

This year’s event brought together over 100,000 tech innovators and industry experts from various parts of the world. It also hosted over 700 expert speakers across 11 tech stages, providing attendees with valuable insights and cutting-edge content on crucial technology topics. The participants were offered an invaluable opportunity to engage in discussions with these top experts, network with one another, discovered new ideas, build partnerships, connected with inspiring mentors and investors, and explore the endless potential of technology to create a better future for the industry and their respective organizations.

Companies from Sri Lanka attending the Leap Conference, expressed their observations of the significant changes in the dynamics of doing business in Saudi Arabia. They stated that the country’s strategic location in the heart of the Middle East makes it an attractive destination for businesses seeking regional market access. They further noted that there was a lot of ongoing development and rapid growth in technology adoption. However, doing business in Saudi Arabia is also challenging due to strict laws and cultural norms, as well as a complex regulatory environment. To overcome these challenges, it’s crucial to work with experienced local partners. As such, the companies expressed their gratitude towards SLASSCOM for the opportunity to participate in the Leap Conference and arranging B2B meetings in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Embassy in Riyadh and Riyadh Chamber of Commerce, which helped them better understand the business landscape in Saudi Arabia and forge valuable connections.