Introduction to the National Industry Information System (NIIS)
Sri Lanka has taken a significant step towards modernizing its industrial sector with the launch of the National Industry Information System (NIIS). This digital platform, introduced in Colombo, aims to consolidate and manage all data related to economic and industrial activities across the country. The initiative is expected to streamline processes, enhance transparency, and support informed decision-making for both government and private sectors.
Key Features of the NIIS
The NIIS functions as a centralized database that captures a comprehensive range of information about industries. This includes:
- Basic industry details
- Business classification
- Legal status
- Registration information
- UN classification
- Industry scale
- Production data
- Raw material usage
- Market coverage
- Employment statistics
- Energy and fuel consumption
- Waste management and disposal methods
This extensive data collection ensures that all aspects of industrial activity are documented, providing a reliable source of information for various stakeholders.
Registration Process and Verification
Industrialists can register on the NIIS platform by either creating their own user account or submitting information through authorized government officials. Each application undergoes a thorough review and verification process. In some cases, site inspections may be conducted to ensure accuracy. Upon successful registration, industries receive an official certificate, confirming their status as registered entities within the National Industry Database. To maintain data integrity, registered industries must update their information annually.
Access and Transparency
The NIIS platform offers Application Programming Interface (API) access to authorized entities such as government agencies, banks, and regulatory authorities. This allows these organizations to verify the authenticity and validity of registered industries. Additionally, selected non-sensitive information will be made publicly accessible, promoting transparency and enabling informed decision-making. This level of openness is expected to benefit researchers, policymakers, and businesses alike.
Benefits for Policy and Planning
The system is designed to serve as a valuable tool for policy formulation, market research, competitive analysis, and strategic planning. By providing accurate and up-to-date data, the NIIS will help Sri Lanka’s industrial sector achieve sustainable growth and enhance its global competitiveness.
Government Perspective and Vision
During the launch event, Sunil Handunnetti, Minister of Industries and Entrepreneur Development, emphasized the importance of the NIIS as a first step in the digitalization of industries in Sri Lanka. He highlighted the lack of a centralized database, which has hindered data accessibility for students, industry decision-makers, and others involved in policy planning.
“By implementing the National Industry Information System, we aim to gather data on all industries—small, medium, and large—and provide it to those who need it,” he stated. The minister also assured that sensitive information provided to the government would be protected, emphasizing the importance of trust in the system.
He further mentioned that obtaining other government services would require registration with the NIIS and obtaining the certificate, reinforcing the system’s role in streamlining bureaucratic processes.
Integration and Social Responsibility
Chathuranga Abeysinghe, Deputy Minister of Industries and Entrepreneur Development, stressed the importance of having accurate information for informed decision-making. He noted that the initiative would enable the government to make effective policies, interventions, and identify challenges within the industrial sector.
Abeysinghe also highlighted the government’s efforts in drug prevention and rehabilitation, urging industries to consider integrating rehabilitated youth into the workforce. “We see a scarcity in skilled labor, but after rehabilitation, we need to integrate these individuals into society. Industries have a great responsibility to absorb them,” he added.
Conclusion
The launch of the National Industry Information System marks a pivotal moment for Sri Lanka’s industrial landscape. By centralizing data, enhancing transparency, and supporting informed decision-making, the NIIS is poised to drive sustainable growth and global competitiveness. As industries adapt to this new digital framework, the collaboration between the government and private sector will be crucial in ensuring the success of this transformative initiative.