Sri Lanka Automobile Service Providers Association (SLASPA), the apex body representing the country’s automobile industry, said it is fully committed to transforming Sri Lanka’s automobile manufacturing, repair and maintenance sector in a challenging 2022.
Representatives of SLASPA told the media that they would drive the industry body with an articulate vision to make the whole industry a pivotal economic cog amidst the impending macroeconomic challenges.
The key elements of SLASPA’s forward-looking 2022 vision include offering an excellent service on par with international standards to customers in the automobile repair and maintenance sector whilst clearing obstacles that hinder the forward march of the industry.
The association plans to provide international-level training to professionals and all those engrossed in the industry to improve their skills and update their knowledge, attract modern global technology to this industry and proactively engage with the key stakeholders, including the Government, to take the automobile manufacturing, repair and maintenance industry of Sri Lanka to greater heights.
Formed in 2017, the Sri Lanka Automobile Service Providers Association aims to be responsible for the professional upkeep of vehicles to manufacturer’s specifications and under required laws and regulations, while assisting regulators to upgrade rules and regulations on the industry.
President of SLASPA, Amal Piyatilake said, “The automobile repair industry in Sri Lanka has a history of over 100 years. Given the present situation of our island-nation, SLSPA believes that our industry could play a key role as a fundamentally crucial component of the overall economy of Sri Lanka, helping the country to thrive in these unprecedented times.
“The formation of the SLASPA five years ago met a longstanding need for the automobile industry, including industry innovators, service stations, mechanical repairers, body shops, auto A/C repairers, to express their views and voice concern about diverse issues about their business activities in providing automobile-related services. This year, the association focuses on helping all stakeholders in the automobile service industry improve their capacity and quality of services provided whilst building networking opportunities.
“The SLASPA will negotiate with Government and non-government establishments and regulatory bodies on behalf of the members and address the need for skilled and trained staff to face the challenges in repairing modern motor vehicles,” he said.