The TFAB Annual Quiz & Social will be held on Saturday, 11th November 2023 at the Marino Beach Hotel, Colombo 3.

25th Annual General Meeting

Port Tour

Multireligious Event

Cricket Sixes

TFAB Quiz

Trade Quiz

The Trade Finance Association of Bankers which was founded in 1997 kicked off its twentieth anniversary celebrations with its Annual General Meeting held on March 02, 2017 at the Grand Oriental Hotel, Colombo. The following Office Bearers and Council Members were elected for the year 2017 / 2018: President, Manjula Gunawardana, National Development Bank, Senior Vice President, Susantha Fernando, Seylan Bank, Vice President, Manoji Hettigoda, Sampath Bank, Secretary General, Shyam De Silva, Hatton National Bank, Treasurer, Lawrian Somanader, Commercial Bank of Ceylon, Assistant Secretary, Sanjeewa Jayasooriya, Standard Chartered Bank, Assistant Treasurer, A. The Trade Finance Association of Bankers was founded by a group of eminent trade professionals 20 years ago some of whom are Trade Consultants and Chief Executive Officers of banks today. Facilitation of exchange of views among members and other individual’s and/or organisations on matters related to Trade Finance. To promote consistency in Trade Finance practices among Bankers. To engage in educational activities for members and other practitioners of Trade Finance by holding lectures, seminars, workshops and other activities. To assist members to further their learning and knowledge on matters related to Trade Finance. To publish a periodic Journal or Newsletter containing material relating to Trade Finance or other connected areas. To express its opinion on matters related to Trade Finance practices. To study and submit its report on any matter related to Trade Finance. To co-ordinate with any regulatory authority or other organisations on matters related to Trade Finance. To promote goodwill, understanding and fellowship amongst bankers engaged in Trade Finance. The Association since its incorporation in 1997 has been continuously engaged in developing the trade practices as well as the trade practitioners by conducting Public Seminars, Guest Lectures, Publication of Newsletters and taking up trade related issues with the relevant regulatory authorities.

Trade Finance Association of Bankers (TFAB) recently organized its educational tour to Colombo port to enhance the knowledge of its members in line with the objectives of the association. The port tour organized and fully sponsored by the association was highly commended by its members. The focus of the program was to provide a holistic view of the operations of the Colombo port so that the trade professionals would appreciate and understand the relevance of their work in smooth clearance of goods through customs and port procedures. The program covered in house lectures pertaining to port activities and cargo handling procedures. Members enjoyed a field visit inside the port and also had an opportunity to explore the warehouses located inside the port. Mahapola Training Institute of the Colombo port authority conducted this program. Picture shows all the participants who took part in the port tour. After evaluation of our previous port educational tour and the participants’ feedback, TFAB has decided to continue this program on a regular basis to give an opportunity to all of their members to make use of the unique educational opportunity.

The 19th Annual General Meeting of the Trade Finance Association of Bankers (TFAB) was held recently in Colombo amidst a large gathering of trade staff of all banks in Sri Lanka. The following were elected as new office bearers for the Year 2016/2017: Manjula Gunawardana (NDB Bank) – President, Susantha Fernando (Seylan Bank) – Senior Vice President, Manoji Hettigoda (Sampath Bank) – Vice President, Shyam De Silva (HNB) – Secretary General, Lawrian Somanader (Commercial Bank) – Treasurer, Sanjeewa Jayasooriya (Standard Chartered Bank – Assistant Secretary, A.S.M.W. Kumarasiri (People’s Bank) – Assistant Treasurer. The following were elected as Council Members: Gaya Manamperi (Past President – formerly at Sampath Bank), Ranjith Haputhanthiri (Past President – Bank of Ceylon), Chatura Rudesh (Sampath Bank), Kasun Muthukuda (Nations Trust Bank), Senaka De Silva (NDB Bank), Neil Handapangoda (Citi Bank), Tharusha Mahawaduge (HSBC), Jehan Perera (Pan Asia Bank), Waruna Senanayake (DFCC Bank), K.R. Naguleswaran (Public Bank), Kanchana Liyanage (Union Bank), J.A.J. Sudarshana (Bank of Ceylon), Susantha Weerasinghe (People’s Bank). Ex-officio – Thushy David (Immediate Past President – Deutsche Bank AG).

The annual TFAB Cricket Sixes organised by the Trade Finance Association of Bankers (TFAB) was held on 30 May at the NCC grounds Colombo 7 for the sixth time. The cricket tournament kicked off around 1 p.m. and was concluded around 10 p.m. For the second time semi finals and finals were played under lights. 28 teams comprising of bank staff working for Trade Finance Divisions in commercial banks enthusiastically participated to battle for the TFAB Challenge trophy. Keen competition was witnessed throughout the tournament with Commercial Bank – A, Citi Bank, being the spotlight entering the finals through hard fought wins in the league round matches and quarter finals. Commercial Bank – A won over Citi Bank team in the final round to become the winner of the TFAB Challenge Trophy. Yasminth Thanura of Cargills Bank Ltd. was adjudged the best bowler and Naleen Pradeep of Citi Bank was adjudged the best batsman respectively, whilst the best player of the tournament was awarded to Achela Ranasinghe of Commercial Bank of Ceylon PLC. The best female player award was clinched by Harshini Fernando of Commercial Bank of Ceylon PLC Rangana Herath was the Chief Guest and Director/General Manager of AB Securitas Ltd., D.P.S. Kannangara was the Guest of Honour. Rangana Herath gave away the prizes for the winners, whilst Kannangara gave away the prizes for the runner up.

Event Date - (2016)

The much looked forward event in the Trade Finance Association of Bankers calendar is the Trade Quiz & Social. This year’s event was held on the 19th of November 2016 at the Kingsbury Hotel. This year’s quiz was conducted on a digital voting system thereby taking the quiz competition into new heights. 29 Teams representing commercial banks participated in the competition. This year the teams contested for the Seylan Bank challenge trophy. There was keen competition witnessed in all rounds and the score at the end of each of the four rounds saw a number of teams heading for a possible victory. After four rounds, there was a tie-breaker round and finally Hatton National Bank “A” team clinched the Seylan Bank challenge trophy for the first time while the first and second runner up trophies were taken away by Commercial Bank “A” and Seylan Bank “A” respectively. Deutsche Bank AG Colombo was the principle sponsor for the event. Mr. Asanka Ranhotty Vice President Head-Institutional Cash & Trade Finance Financial Institutions Deutsche Bank AG graced the occasion as Chief Guest and Mr. Gayan Algama Vice President and Chief Representative JP Morgan Chase Bank was the Guest of honour. Mr. Pavel Andrle, a Technical Advisor to the International Chamber of Commerce also participated as a special invitee.

Event Date - (2016)

Event Date - (25 February 2015)

Event Date - (30 May 2015)

“Shaping the skills of Trade Professionals for an FDI / Export driven growth” SHARING OF KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERTISE BY A TEAM OF SPECIALISTS Saturday, 15th August 2015 08.30 am to 4.30 pm At the Balmoral, The Kingsbury, Colombo

Event Date - (07 November 2015)

Event Date - (27 February 2014)

Event Date - (02 August 2014)

Event Date - (11 October 2014)

Event Date - (03 December 2014) On Marine Insurance by Mr.Kumar Muthiah of AIA Insurance.

Trade Finance Association of Bankers has from its inception, been actively engaged in imparting knowledge and the necessary skills to its members by conducting seminars, lectures, discussions, workshops etc., on a wide range of topics relating to International Trade. Educating the Sri Lankan importers and exporters is also an objective of the Association in order to assist them to keep abreast of the changes that are taking place in the Industry. A number of senior bankers play a major role in conducting its activities towards the achievement of the goals and objectives of the Association. Ranjith Haputhanthri, Assistant General Manager - Overseas Branches, Bank of Ceylon, was elected as the new President and Chatura Rudesh, Senior Manager – Trade Services, Sampath Bank, as the Senior Vice President. Other Office Bearers include, Vice President - Manjula Gunawardana, Manager - Trade Finance, National Development Bank PLC, Secretary General - Susantha Fernando, Senior Manager - Exports, Seylan Bank PLC, Assistant Secretary - Shyam De Silva, Assistant Manager – Business Development (Trade), Hatton National Bank PLC, Treasurer - Ms. Manoji Hettigoda, Senior Executive - Trade Services, Sampath Bank PLC, Assistant Treasurer, Lawrian Somanander, Senior Manager - Exports, Commercial Bank of Ceylon PLC. The following were elected Council members: Gaya Manamperi formerly at Sampath Bank PLC, Jayantha Newunhella - Peoples Bank, Thushy David - Deutsche Bank AG, Ms. Indika Samarasekara - Sampath Bank PLC, Senaka De Silva - National Development Bank PLC, Himath Kithsiri - HSBC Electronic Data Processing (Lanka) Pvt Ltd., Neil Handapangoda - Citibank NA, Waruna Senanayake - DFCC Vardhana Bank, Sanjeewa Jayasooriya - Standard Chartered Bank Limited, Tharusha Mahawaduge - HSBC, Kasun Muthukuda - Nations Trust Bank PLC, Jehan Perera, Pan Asia Banking Corporation, Ajith Karunaratna - Bank of Ceylon and Ms. Padmini Horanage - Peoples Bank. Ranjith Haputhanthri succeeds Jayantha Newunhella Deputy General Manager – International Banking, Peoples Bank, Immediate Past President of the Trade Finance Association of Bankers. Ranjith was previously the Senior Vice President of the Association.

The “Trade Quiz and Social” organized by the Trade Finance Association of Bankers was held on the 8th of June 2013 at the Jaic Hilton, Union Place for the 10th successful year. All commercial banks in the island together with Central Bank of Sri Lanka fielded teams for the Quiz Competition. There was keen competition witnessed in all rounds and the score at the end of each of the four rounds saw a number of teams heading for a possible victory. At the end of last round (fourth round) gaining the top honours for the day Seylan Bank “A” team clinched the challenge Trophy of TFAB for the sixth consecutive year while the first and second runner up trophies were taken away by Seylan Bank “B” and Commercial Bank “A” respectively. Deutsche Bank AG Colombo was the principle sponsor for the event for the Fourth year and Mr. Jagath P. Wijeweera the Director General of Customs graced the occasion as Chief Guest and Mr. Tyron Hannan Director and Head of Global Transaction Banking Deutsche Bank AG was the guest of honour. Mr. Ranjith Haputhanthri President of the TFAB, in his speech, explained the objectives of the association and the event. One of the primary objectives of Trade Finance Association of Bankers to enhance the knowledge of its members and other staff working in Trade Services Units. He stressed that the interaction and interrelationships among the staff working in Trade Services Units are paramount important in evolvement of professional standards of every individual.

The annual TFAB Cricket Sixes organized by the Trade Finance Association of Bankers (TFAB) for the fifth consecutive year was held on the 26 October 2013 at the NCC grounds Colombo 07. This year’s cricket tournament witnessed a difference as NCC Grounds were illuminated, to have the Final match played under lights. The tournament kicked off around 1.00 p.m. and was concluded around 9.00 p.m. Twenty-five teams comprising of Bank Staff working for Trade Finance Divisions in commercial banks enthusiastically participated to battle for the TFAB Challenge Trophy Keen competition was witnessed throughout the tournament with Commercial Bank - A, Bank of Ceylon – A, being the spotlight entering the semi-finals through hard fought wins in the league round matches and quarter finals. Commercial Bank – A won over Bank of Ceylon – A team in the final round to become the winner of the TFAB Challenge Trophy for this year. Achala Ranasinghe and Milan Ariyawansa of Commercial Bank were adjudged the best bowler and best batsman respectively, whilst the best player of the tournament was awarded to Chaminda Fernando of Bank of Ceylon. The best female player award was clinched by Watsala Wimalaratna of Bank of Ceylon. General Manager of Bank of Ceylon, D M Gunesekara was the chief guest and Director/=General Manager of AB Securitas (Pvt) Ltd, D P S Kannangara was the guest of honor. Mr. Gunesekara gave away the prizes for the winners, whilst Mr. Kannangara gave away the prizes for the runner up. Commercial Bank 80/4 (Milan 33 Retired, Chamara 19 not out/ Chaminda 23 for 1 & Chamith 9 for 1) Bank of Ceylon 45 All Out (Chaminda 8 , Pubudu 10/ Gimhan 15 for 1, Chamara 1 for 1 & Achela none for 1)

The Trade Finance Association of Bankers at its 14th Annual General Meeting held on the 06th of March 2012, elected its new Council for the year 2012/2013. Trade Finance Association of Bankers has from its inception, been actively engaged in imparting knowledge and the necessary skills to its members by conducting seminars, lectures, discussions, workshops etc., on a wide range of topics relating to International Trade. Educating the Sri Lankan importers and exporters is also an objective of the Association in order to assist them to keep abreast of the changes that are taking place in the Industry. A number of senior bankers play a major role in conducting its activities towards the achievement of the goals and objectives of the Association. Jayantha Newunhella Deputy General Manager – International Banking, Peoples Bank, was elected as the new President and Ranjith Haputhanthri, Assistant General Manager - Overseas Branches, Bank of Ceylon, as the Senior Vice President. Other Office Bearers include, Vice President - Chatura Rudesh, Senior Manager – Trade Services, Sampath Bank PLC, Secretary General - Manjula Gunawardana, Manager - Trade Finance, National Development Bank PLC, Assistant Secretary - Roshan Fernando, Manager - Corporate Relationship Manager, HSBC, Treasurer - Ms. Manoji Hettigoda, Senior Executive - Trade Services, Sampath Bank PLC, Assistant Treasurer, Susantha Fernando - Senior Manager - Exports, Seylan Bank PLC. Jumat, Assistant General Manager - Trade Services, Immediate Past President of the Trade Finance Association of Bankers. Jayantha was previously the Senior Vice President of the Association. The new president in his welcome address mentioned that the Trade Finance Association of Bankers has been recognized by the community as a valuable provider of knowledge, expertise and updated information relating to the global activity of International Trade.

Trade Finance Quiz and Social 2012 was held on Saturday, 09th May 2012 at Hotel Taj Samudra, Colombo with the participation of 22 teams. Mr. Ananda Silva, Deputy Governer, Central Bank of Sri Lanka was the Chief Guest and Mr. Asanka Ranhotty, Director – Head of Trust & Securities Services, Global Transaction Banking, Deutsche Bank was the Guest of Honour for this event. This year’s quiz was yet again fiercely contested. Seylan Bank “A” Team became the Champions for the fifth consecutive year with Hatton National Bank “A” and Peoples Bank “A” respectively, taking the First and Second Runner up positions. The Quiz was followed by the Social with the active participation of the members which helped to build relationships among the trade finance staff across banks. The social was attended by nearly 200 members and regretfully some requests for participation had to be turned down.

Union Bank led by Kushan Lewke emerged as the new winner when they comprehensively beat HNB 'A' in the final at the fourth annual Trade Finance Association of Bankers Softball Cricket Sixes, concluded at the NCC grounds on 17th November 2012. 24 teams pooled into eight groups and participated in two stages, comprising 32 matches on three pitches. Kathiravelupillai and Mr. Gayan Manamperi, gave away the awards at the post tournament presentation.Parama Dharmawardene - Consultant, Sampath Bank plc. Tanuj Edward - Assistant General Manager - AVIVA NDB Insurance Sabry Ibrahim - Senior Deputy General Manager- Peoples Bank Nilam U Jumat - Assistant General Manager-Trade Services - Hatton National Bank plc. A Kathiravelupillai, Senior Banking Consultant, Former Deputy General Manager - Bank of Ceylon handled the difficult task of Moderator. In a new development from this year, members of the Institute of Bankers of Sri Lanka (IBSL) are eligible to earn Continuous Professional Development (CPD) points by participating in Seminars organized by the Trade Finance Association of Bankers. From the feedback received the participants had benefited very much from the presentations made especially as the topics co-related to the work they are involved in. The panel discussions which followed the presentation was very interactive and included Jegan Durairatnam Deputy General Manager, International Commercial Bank of Ceylon who added much value to the discussion. The participants were able to clarify many technical issues relating to International Trade practices. The President of the Association Nilam Jumat said that the Trade Finance Association of Bankers, which was inaugurated in 1997 has from inception been actively engaged in imparting knowledge and the necessary skills to its members by conducting seminars, lectures discussions, workshops etc. on a wide range of topics relating to International Trade. The seminar concluded with the delivery of the vote of thanks by the Secretary General of TFAB, Manjula Gunawardana.

A full day seminar organized by the Trade Finance Association of Bankers on "Understanding Trade Risks to meet Global Challenges" was held on 26th November 2011 at the Galadari Hotel. The seminar was open to a wide spectrum of participants such as Importers, Exporters, Bankers, Lawyers, Shipping and Insurance Industry professionals etc. The emerging industrial powers like China India, Commodity suppliers such as Australia, many countries in Africa and Latin America and the Developed democratic welfare states, like the EU, US and Japan. The emerging industrial powers and commodity suppliers have done well during the financial crisis. Tanuj Edward - Assistant General Manager - AVIVA NDB Insurance Sabry Ibrahim - Senior Deputy General Manager- Peoples Bank Nilam U Jumat - Assistant General Manager-Trade Services - Hatton National Bank plc. A Kathiravelupillai, Senior Banking Consultant, Former Deputy General Manager - Bank of Ceylon handled the difficult task of Moderator. In a new development from this year, members of the Institute of Bankers of Sri Lanka (IBSL) are eligible to earn Continuous Professional Development (CPD) points by participating in Seminars organized by the Trade Finance Association of Bankers. From the feedback received the participants had benefited very much from the presentations made especially as the topics co-related to the work they are involved in. The panel discussions which followed the presentation was very interactive and included Jegan Durairatnam Deputy General Manager, International Commercial Bank of Ceylon who added much value to the discussion. The participants were able to clarify many technical issues relating to International Trade practices. The President of the Association Nilam Jumat said that the Trade Finance Association of Bankers, which was inaugurated in 1997 has from inception been actively engaged in imparting knowledge and the necessary skills to its members by conducting seminars, lectures discussions, workshops etc. on a wide range of topics relating to International Trade.

The annual 'TFAB Cricket Sixes' organized by the Trade Finance Association of Bankers for the third successive year was played at BRC Grounds on 07th August 2011. Twenty-four teams from the members of the staff attached to the Trade Finance Divisions of the commercial banks enthusiastically participated in this event. Intense competition was witnessed right throughout the tournament with Hatton National Bank 'B', HSBC Bank, Citi Bank and Union Bank being in the spotlight entering the semi-finals through hard fought wins in the league round matches and the quarter-finals. The formidable HSBC Bank team triumphed over the Union Bank in the final to become the worthy winners of the coveted Trade Finance Association of Bankers Challenge Trophy for the year 2011. Brilliant individual performances included Ayeshan Perera of Union Bank team winning the award for the Best Batsmen whilst Sanjeewa Fernando of Hatton National Bank won the Best Bowler's award. Indika Karunaratna of HSBC team was adjudged the Most valuable Player of the Tournament for his all-round performance both with the bat & the ball scoring an aggregate of 94 runs and taking a total of 4 wickets for 65 runs. Mr. Rajendra Theagarajah, CEO/Managing Director of, Hatton National Bank Limited graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and distributed the prizes to the winners. Mr. Nilam Jumat, President of the Trade Finance Association of Bankers speaking at the Opening Ceremony commended the banks in sponsoring the event by nominating teams and mentioned the importance of fellowship among bankers involved in the Trade Finance to foster relationship. The Trade Finance Association of Bankers were greatly honored by the presence of Mr. Rajendra Theagarajah, CEO/Managing Director of Hatton National Bank as the Chief Guest at the event, who in his speech mentioned his close association with the TFAB from it's inception and wished well the Winners and all who participated.

Trade Finance Association of Bankers conducted an evening lecture as a part of its knowledge impartation programme, on the 07th of July 2011, at the Bank of Ceylon auditorium on the theme "Do you know what is BOI? A detailed understanding of BOI." The resource person was Mr. Ranjan Sebera, Deputy Director - Investments, Board of Investment. It was attended by a full house of Bankers.

The Trade Finance Association of Bankers at its 14th Annual General Meeting held on the 25th of March 2011, elected its new Council for the year 2011/2012. Trade Finance Association of Bankers has from its inception, been actively engaged in imparting knowledge and the necessary skills to its members by conducting seminars, lectures, discussions, workshops etc., on a wide range of topics relating to International Trade. A number of senior bankers play a major role in conducting its activities towards the achievement of the goals and objectives of the Association. Jumat, Assistant General Manager - Trade Services at Hatton National Bank PLC, was elected as the new President and Jayantha Newunhella Assistant General Manager - Trade Services, Peoples Bank, as the Senior Vice President. Other Office Bearers include, Vice President - Ranjith Haputhanthri, Assistant General Manager -Overseas Branches, Bank of Ceylon, Secretary General - Manjula Gunawardana, Manager - Trade Finance, National Development Bank PLC, Assistant Secretary - Roshan Fernando, Manager - Exports, HSBC, Treasurer - Ms. Manoji Hettigoda, Senior Executive - Trade Services, Sampath Bank PLC, Assistant Treasurer, Susantha Fernando - Manager - Imports, Seylan Bank. K. Nandasiri - Deputy General Manager - Support Services, Bank of Ceylon, Immediate Past President of the Trade Finance Association of Bankers. Jumat was previously the Senior Vice President of the Association and also Secretary General of the Association for the years 2007/2008. The new president in his welcome address mentioned that the Trade Finance Association of Bankers has been recognized by the community as a valuable provider of knowledge, expertise and updated information relating to the global activity of International Trade.

Trade Finance Quiz and Social 2011 was held on Saturday, 12th March 2011 at Hotel Taj Samudra, Colombo with the participation of 22 teams. Mr. Tyronne Hannan, Director – Head of Trust & Securities Services, Global Transaction Banking, Deutsche Bank was the Chief Guest for this event. This year’s quiz was yet again fiercely contested. Seylan Bank “A” Team became the Champions for the fourth consecutive year with Sampath Bank “A” and Seylan Bank “B” respectively, taking the First and Second Runner up positions. The Quiz was followed by the Social with the active participation of the members which helped to build relationships among the trade finance staff across banks. The social was attended by nearly 220 members and regretfully some requests for participation had to be turned down.

Trade Finance Association of Bankers (TFAB) conducted an awareness programme on International Trade on 27th November 2010 at Green Breeze Hotel in Ambalantota for the prospective clients interested in International Trade. This seminar was organized by Hambantota Business Solution a subsidiary of the Hambantota District Chamber of Commerce (HDCC) and was well attended by over 35 individuals and corporate bodies interested in Imports and Exports. Mr Parama Dharmawardene immidiate past President of Trade Finance Association of Bankers and Mr Ranjith Haputanthri Council member of Trade Finance Association of Bankers delivered their lectures after the welcome speech and introduction given by Mr Tirrel Nadugala former President of HDCC. Some of the topics covered under this programme were Introduction to International Trade, Documents used in International Trade, Incoterms 2010, rules & regulations, Methods of Payments, Documentary Credit/Collections, Regulations governing Imports/Exports.....etc.

The annual ‘TFAB Cricket Sixes’ organized for the second successive year by the Trade Finance Association of Bankers played at Shalika grounds on Saturday 14th august 2010, was a resounding success. Twenty four teams from the members of the staff attached to the Trade Finance Divisions of the commercial banks enthusiastically participated in the event. Intense competition was witnessed right throughout the tournament with Hatton National Bank ‘B’, HSBC Bank, Citi Bank and Union Bank being in the spotlight entering the semi-finals through hard fought wins in the league round matches and the quarter-finals. The formidable Hatton National Bank ‘B’ team triumphed over the HSBC Bank in the final to become the worthy winners of the coveted Trade Finance Association of Bankers Challenge Trophy for the year 2010. Brilliant individual performances included Sachintha Balasuriya of HSBC Bank “A” team winning the award for the Best Batsmen whilst Dhanushka Edussuriya of Citi Bank won the Best Bowler’s award. Duncan Arnolda of HNB “B” team was adjudged the Player of the Tournament for his all-round performance both with the bat & the ball scoring an aggregate of 55 runs with 6 Sixes and taking a total of 3 wickets for 39 runs, & taking 2 cathes in the tournament. This year too, State Bank of India fielded an all women team adding glamour to the event. Mr. Ajitha Pasqual, Director / General Manager/CEO, Seylan Bank Limited a sporting enthusiast himself graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and distributed the prizes to the winners. Mr. M.K. Nandasiri, President of the Trade Finance Association of Bankers speaking at the Opening Ceremon commended the banks in sponsoring the event by nominating teams and mentioned the importance of fellowship among bankers involved in the Trade Finance to foster relationship.

Trade Finance Association of Bankers at its 13th Annual General Meeting, held recently at the Grand Oriental Hotel Colombo, elected the Council for the year 2010/2011. K. Nandasiri was elected the President of the Association for the ensuing year, and he took the Ceremonial Oath from the outgoing President Mr. Parama Dharmawardene who held the position for the last three years. And is presently the Deputy General Manager – Support Services at Bank of Ceylon. He is an Associate of the Institute of Bankers of Sri Lanka. He counts over 35 years of service in banking with Bank of Ceylon with experience in the fields of Branch Banking, International Banking and Treasury. He has also served the Bank of Ceylon, Chennai Branch for over three years as its Country Manager. Mr. Nilam Jumat, Assistant General Manager (Trade Services), Hatton National Bank PLC, a Fellow of the Institute of Bankers of Sri Lanka was elected the Senior Vice President and Mr. Manjula Gunawardana, Head of Imports, National Development Bank PLC, was elected the Secretary General. Mr. Jayantha Newunhella, Assistant General Manager (Trade Services), Peoples Bank was elected the Vice President, Mr. Roshan Fernando, Manager – Exports, HSBC Bank, the Assistant Secretary, Mrs Manoji Hettigoda, Senior Executive Sampath Bank, the Treasurer and Mr. Susantha Fernando, Manager, Imports, Seylan Bank PLC, the Assistant Treasurer. The immediate Past President Mr. Parama Dharmawardene of Sampath Bank PLC was appointed to the Council ex-officio. Mr. Parama Dharmawardene delivering the welcome address noted that the Association had taken giant strides in meeting its objectives and being recognized by the trade finance community as a useful provider of knowledge & expertise relating to Trade Finance. Newly elected president Mr. Nandasiri in his address paid tribute to the outgoing President for his leadership provided in guiding the Association to greater heights.

There was keen competition and the score at the end of each of the four rounds saw a number of teams heading for a possible victory. At the end of the fourth round Seylan Bank and People's Bank had finished on top with Sampath Bank just one point behind. However, the tie was broken in the third round when Seylan Bank managed to get the better of People's Bank. Seylan Bank, the winners of the competition in the last two years, made it three in a row and won the coveted Trade Finance Quiz Challenge Trophy and thereby became its proud owners. People's Bank had to be satisfied with the trophy for the First Runner-up. Sampath Bank carried away the trophy for the Second Runner up. Deutsche Bank AG, Colombo was the principal sponsor of the event for the second year in succession and Ravi Perera, Head of Cash Management and Trade Services - Financial Institutions, Deutsche Bank AG, Colombo graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. In his address Perera said that the Trade Finance Quiz was of a high standard and they were happy in supporting events of this nature which fostered knowledge in international trade among the bankers engaged in handling international trade. Parama Dharmawardene in his address mentioned that the association made the Trade Finance Quiz and Social an annual event considering the enthusiasm displayed for it by the membership. He also mentioned that the objective of the association in organising an event of this magnitude was not only to facilitate the quench for competition in quizzing but also to foster fellowship among bankers involved in trade finance across the commercial banks in Sri Lanka.

The public seminar organized by the Trade Finance Association of Bankers on the theme “Increasing Opportunities in International Trade - Are You Risk Covered?” on Saturday, 14 November 2009 at the Grand Ballroom, Galadari Hotel, Colombo was a resounding success with the Association having to refuse some of the last-minute applicants due to exceeding the capacity. This seminar was aimed at importers, exporters, bankers engaged in trade services and financing, and businessmen who are eager to venture into International Trade in a whole new economic order presented after the Global meltdown and the local post conflict scenario. Mr. Parama Dharmawardene, Consultant, Sampath Bank, President of the Trade Finance Association of Bankers (former Deputy General Manager, Sampath Bank), made a presentation on Documentary Credits and Collections by using a number of interesting case studies to bring out the learning points on the subject. Mrs. Shanthi Gooneratne - Head of Corporate Credits DFCC Vardhana Bank handled the Financing of Imports and exports and explained the need for financial discipline by importers / exporters and how a package of financial facilities should be structured in order to ensure that an importer / exporter can carry out his business without running to financial difficulties. Mr. Dilruk Ranasinghe, General Manager, Sri Lanka Export Credit Insurance Corporation, explained the export credit insurance facilities offered to the exporters and the commercial banks by SLECIC. Mr. Jayantha Silva – Senior Manager, Marine Cargo Claims Sri Lanka Insurance Corporation, discussed the marine insurance risks, the different types of cover available and the risks covered by the different Cargo Clauses. A Panel Discussion was held as the last session of the seminar at which Mr. Jegan Durairatnam, DGM International, Commercial Bank of Ceylon, displayed his knowledge and experience by his contribution.

Trade Finance Association of Bankers was formed in 1997, by a group of Senior Bankers involved in International Trade operations who identified the need for a coordinated effort of all bankers in Sri Lanka involved in international trade operations to build a global image of our ability to provide a professionalized and a level of the highest standard of service in handling international trade transactions. The TFAB from its inception have been actively engaged in imparting knowledge, the necessary skills to its members while pormoting best practices, in Trade Finance. A much looked forward to event in the TFAB calendar by the membership is the Annual Trade Finance Quiz and the Social. This event was added to the TFAB calendar in 2003, where the bankers involved in trade finance are given an opportunity to test their skills and knowledge on the Subject as well as on general knowledge. The Inaugural Trophy was won by the Commercial Bank of Ceylon Ltd. The outdoor event was a tremendous success and very much enjoyed by the membership in that there is a big cry by to make this an annual event and the TFAB has decided to include it in its calendar of events. The association on a continuing basis has been actively engaged in discussions with regulatory bodies including Exchange Control Department of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, Import and Export Control Dept., of Sri Lanka and Sri Lanka Customs in streamlining International Trade activities. In the 12 year illustrious history of the Association it has been continuously expanding it’s membership and has members from almost all commercial banks operating in Sri Lanka while a number of Senior bankers play the major role in conducting it’s activities towards achievement of the goals and objectives of the Association.

The inaugural 'TFAB Cricket Sixes' organized by the Trade Finance Association of Bankers played at Shalika grounds last Saturday was a resounding success. Twenty-two teams from the members of the staff attached to the Trade Finance Divisions of the commercial banks enthusiastically participated in the event. Keen competition was witnessed right throughout the tournament with Commercial Bank "A", HSBC Bank, Hatton National Bank 'A' and NDB Bank being in the spotlight entering the semi-finals through hard fought wins in the league round matches and the quarter-finals. The much-fancied Commercial Bank 'A' team triumphed over the HSBC Bank in the final to become the winners of the Trade Finance Association of Bankers Challenge Trophy for the year 2009, the inaugural year. Sachintha Balasuriya of HSBC Bank won the award for the Best Batsmen whilst Shane Godwin of HSBC Bank won the Best Bowler's award. Nilan Ariyawansa was named the Man of the Tournament for his contribution both with the bat & the ball scoring an aggregate of 113 runs WITH 12 Sixes and taking a total of 02 wickets for 35 runs in the tournament. Sportsmanship was displayed to its highest level when State Bank of India fielded an all women team competing with the men which added much colour to this spectacular event. Mr. Aravinda Perera, Executive Director / Chief Operating Officer, Sampath Bank graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and Mr. A. Kathiravelupillai, Senior Banking and Financial Consultant and member of the Advisory Committee was the Guest of Honour, and they distributed the awards. Mr. Parama Dharmawardene, President of the Trade Finance Association of Bankers speaking at the Award Ceremony commended the sportsmanship exhibited by the bankers participating in the event and assured the members that this event will become a part of the annual calendar of the Association in the future.

The Trade Finance association of Bankers (TFAB) conducted a Seminar on "Trade Terms - What are your Risks and obligations?" on the 08th of July 2009 at the Bank of Ceylon Auditorium, attended by a full house of enthusiastic Corporate's. Association believes that knowledge sharing among Trade Finance community is a foremost responsibility and towards this it endeavors holding similar quality seminars in the future. The response for the seminar was immense although it was a week day and regretfully many requests for participation had to be turned down. TFAB plans to have its next Seminar in October this year. Mr. Parama Dharmawardena, Consultant Sampath Bank, President of the Association (former Deputy General Manager, Sampath Bank) who was the resource person for the event stressed on the importance of International Commercial Terms (Incoterms) in finalizing Trade Contracts. The TFAB's continued efforts in providing the Business sector mainly the Importers, Exporters and the Bankers with the latest know how in International Trade Finance through Seminars and Workshops is commendable.

The Trade Finance Association of Bankers conducted a Public Seminar on "International Trade in the Current Environment" on Saturday, 28 March 2009 at the auditorium of Bank of Ceylon in Kandy. The event was sponsored by Bank of Ceylon, Kandy and participation was free of charge and was by invitation based on nomination by the commercial banks in and around Kandy. Mr. Lalith Atapattu Assistant General Manager, Bank of Ceylon Kandy, inaugurated the seminar and presentations were made by:Mr. M K Nandasiri - Assistant General Manager, Bank of Ceylon, Mr. Parama Darmawardene - Consultant, Sampath Bank, Mr. Ranjith Haputhanthri - Chief Manager, Trade Services, Bank of Ceylon, and Mr. Nihal Premasiri - Manager Exports, Peoples Bank. Issues relating to the subject and were discussed and the queries raised by the participants were answered. The participation of importers, exporters and bankers in and around Kandy was encouraging and the seminar was highly interactive. It was very evident that the participants were keenly interested on the subject. The participants were of the view that the business community is eagerly waiting for this type of short duration, knowledge enhancing programs and requested us to conduct similar programs in other parts of the country as well.

Event Date - (25 February 2009) The 12th Annual General Meeting of the Trade Finance Association of Bankers was held on Wednesday 25 February 2009 at The Organization of Professional Associations of Sri Lanka, Colombo 07. The AGM was followed by fellowship and dinner.

Trade Finance Quiz 2009 was held on Saturday, 17 January 2009 at the Galadari Hotel, Colombo with the participation of 24 teams. Mr Rienzie Wijetilleke - Chairman, Hatton National Bank was the Chief Guest for this event. Deutsche Bank was once again the principal sponsor of this event. Seylan Bank became the Champions with Hatton National Bank and Peoples Bank taking the First and Second Runners up positions. The Quiz was followed by the Social with the active participation of the members which build relationships among the trade finance staff across banks.

TFAB Public Seminar on the theme "Global Financial Crisis and Payment Risks in International Trade" was held on Saturday, 22 November 2008 at the Grand Ballroom, Hotel Galadari, Colombo. The inaugural address was delivered by Mr. Nick Nicolaou, Chief Executive Officer, Sri Lanka & Maldives. HSBC Bank. Presentations were made by Mr. Parama Dharmawardene, Mr. Nilam Jumat, Mr. Michael Peiris, Mr. Chatura Rudesh and Mr. Azam Omerdeen. Presentations were also made by Mr Tanuj Edward and Mr. Managala Boyagoda. Mr. A. Kathiravelupillai was the Moderator. A Panel Discussion was held at the end of the seminar and Mr. Jegan Durairatnam also joined the Panel.

The Trade Finance Association Quiz and Social was held on Saturday, the 29th of March 2008 at Hotel Taj Samudra. Winners of the Quiz were the Seylan Bank 'A' Team with Sampath Bank 'A' team being the 1st Runners-up and Hatton National Bank 'A' team being the 2nd Runners-up.

The 11th Annual General Meeting of the Trade Finance Association of Bankers was held on Tuesday 19 February 2008 at The Organization of Professional Associations of Sri Lanka, Colombo 07. The AGM was followed by fellowship and dinner.

Event Date - (05 December 2007) As a part of the ongoing Bi-monthly evening lecture series, a Lecture Discussion on the topic, 'Hedging Mechanisms in a Volatile Commodities Market', was held on Wednesday, 05th of December 2007 at the Peoples Bank Auditorium. The facilitator was Mr. Mr. Mangala Boyagoda, Chief Executive Officer, Wealth Lanka Management (Pvt) Ltd.

Trade Finance Association of Bankers celebrated its tenth anniversary on the 10th of November 2007 at Hotel Taj Samudra. The chief guest for occasion was the Governor of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, Mr. Ajith Nivard Cabraal. The Trade Finance Association of Bankers website "www.tfab.org" was launched by Mr. Ajith Nivard Cabraal.

Event Date - (25 July 2007) As a part of the ongoing Bi-monthly evening lecture series, a Lecture Discussion on the topic, 'Banks in the Eyes of Customs A Facilitator of International Trade or a Business Entity', was held on Wednesday, 25th of July 2007 at the Peoples Bank Auditorium. The facilitator was Mr. M.R. Rajmohan - Chief Legal Affairs Officer, Customs department. After an introductory presentation by Mr. Rajmohan a very interactive discuusion followed which helped the bankers to understand some of the issues faced by the Customs and Customs to appreciate some of the practical problems faced by banks in complying with the regulatory requirements.

A one day Seminar on 'UCP600 from Sri Lankan Perspective', organized by the Trade Finance Association of Bankers held on 26th May 2007 at Ceylon Continental Hotel was a great success, with the participation of over 200 bankers, importers and exporters. Almost each and every commercial bank operating in Sri Lanka was represented. It was a good opportunity for the participants to listen to experienced senior bankers. The speakers were Messrs. A. Kathiravelupilai, Parama Dharmawardene, Michael Peiris, Nilam Jumat and Chatura Rudesh. They explained all 39 Articles of the 2007 Revision of Uniform Customs & Practice, ICC Publication No. 600. The panel discussion which followed was very interactive and many participants actively contributed by bringing up numerous technical issues. The panellists comprehensively answered all issues raised by the participants. The feedback received from the participants was very encouraging and some of the participants requested more frequent events of longer duration.