China Petrochemical Corporation (Sinopec) has launched its first comprehensive training program for managers of overseas gas stations. The program, conducted simultaneously in Sri Lanka and Beijing, provided training opportunities for 17 Sri Lankan managers. It stands out as one of the innovative practices under China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), aiming not only to strengthen energy cooperation between the two countries but also to enhance Sinopec’s international brand recognition.
The program featured a diverse curriculum, ranging from theoretical lessons and practical exercises to field visits and cultural experiences. It marked significant milestones, including the first domestic training for overseas managers, the first technical skill assessments for foreign employees, and the certification of in-house trainers at franchised stations. These pioneering steps have bolstered Sinopec’s influence in the global energy market. During the training, participants explored Chinese culture by visiting historic landmarks like the Great Wall and the Forbidden City, engaging in calligraphy workshops, and cooking traditional Chinese dishes. These activities deepened the Sri Lankan employees’ understanding of Chinese culture and fostered cultural exchange between the two nations.
Sinopec is recognized as a leader in promoting international cooperation in the energy sector. Since 2019, it has utilized Sri Lanka’s Hambantota Port as a logistical hub to support the regional energy market. In 2023, Sinopec secured a 20-year operating license for 150 gas stations in Sri Lanka, aiming to provide reliable energy resources and high-quality services to the local population.
In June 2024, the inauguration of the TransLanka and Ariyadasa gas stations marked Sinopec’s entry into the South Asian retail market. This development not only set new standards in the energy industry but also strengthened the international acceptance of the Sinopec brand. Looking ahead, Sinopec plans to expand its collaboration in energy, environmental sustainability, and technology under the Belt and Road Initiative, fostering a shared development model that deepens economic and cultural ties between China and Sri Lanka.