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Sri Lankan conglomerate Softlogic Group plans to enter Bangladesh's services sector with the acquisition of a life-insurance company and a hospital to begin with.
Chairman of the group Ashok Pathirage told The Financial Express on Monday about initial progress they have made.
"We have agreed to buy one of the life-insurance companies in Bangladesh. All formalities have almost been completed to take over the insurance company," says.
He wouldn't disclose the name of the insurance company now as "it is price-sensitive information (PSI). But you will know about it in two months' time."
The Lankan business group is also seeking to provide Bangladeshis global-standard healthcare services through its healthcare concern -- Asiri Health, Mr Pathirage says.
Asiri Health is a leader among Sri Lanka's private hospitals, he adds.
The corporate is also in discussion to purchase Bangladesh's pioneering chain superstore, Agora.
"Considering Bangladesh's moderate size of population, growing number of consumers and global geopolitics, I think now is the right time to enter here," he says.
Bangladesh is offering significant opportunities in healthcare, as the country's people spend around US$3.50 billion every year on medical treatment in overseas countries, the Lankan businessman mentions.
Bangladesh stands out as a high-growth economy with increasing demand for reliable and cost-effective international healthcare solutions, he notes.
In this context, he says, Asiri Health, part of the Softlogic Group, is reinforcing its commitment to making world-class healthcare more accessible to international patients, particularly those from Bangladesh, by offering high-quality medical treatment that is both cost-effective and conveniently located.
Their services are built on a solid foundation of trusted healthcare delivery, supported by internationally recognised clinical standards and protocols.
The hospital group is backed by a team of highly skilled, internationally trained specialists with extensive global exposure, he claims.
With a track record of successfully treating patients from all over the world, Asiri guarantees that each patient receives personalised, high-quality care that is in line with global benchmarks, he adds.
In addition to quality and cost advantages, Sri Lanka's close proximity to Bangladesh enables shorter travel times and greater convenience.
Sri Lanka is well-positioned to emerge as a preferred destination because of Bangladesh's increasing need for reliable and cost-effective foreign healthcare.
In order to meet this need, Asiri Health provides a closer, simpler option that offers convenience and quality without the complications that come with long-distance medical travels.
Azizjst@yahoo.com