TAIAN LANKA STEEL
FROM TRADER TO INDUSTRIALIST – THE STORY OF SRI LANKA’S FIRST STEEL TUBE MANUFACTURER
Q: How did your journey in the steel sector begin and what led to the establishment of Taian Lanka Steel?
A: I came to Colombo after completing my Advanced Level studies. I was curious about business and willing to work hard but I did not know that steel would become my life.
Starting as a small steel trader with Daizu Trade in 2002, I learned something new every day about quality, pricing and trust – and how a promise matters more than a contract in our trade.
All along, one question stayed with me: why can’t we build something of our own instead of depending on imported steel tubes? That question became the driving force behind the establishment of Taian Lanka Steel Company in 2010.
We started in Old Moor Street with a small office and a big dream, eventually becoming Sri Lanka’s first company to manufacture steel tubes locally. Before Taian, scaffolding pipes, square tubes and housing columns were imported, requiring millions in foreign exchange and months of waiting for shipments. Making them locally, I felt, could give our nation something priceless: self-reliance.
Q: What were the greatest challenges during Taian’s early years?
A: The early years tested us in many ways. We had to build a team from scratch, establish relationships with banks, suppliers and transporters, and develop manufacturing capabilities without a local example to follow. Most importantly, we had to earn our customers’ confidence.
I remember many telling me: “Imported is better.” But I understood that trust had to be earned. So we proved, site by site, that ‘Made in Sri Lanka’ could be fresher, rust-free and delivered immediately.
We faced financial pressures that demanded everything we had. For years, we did not take a profit – reinvesting our earnings in machinery, raw materials and our people. My philosophy was simple: build the foundation first; the building will rise by itself.
The expansion of our manufacturing facility and warehouse complex in Marawila marked an important stage in our journey. It strengthened our production capabilities, increased our storage capacity and enabled us to serve a wider market across the island.
As we grew, we broadened our product portfolio to include electric resistance welded (ERW) black pipes, pre-galvanised tubes, square and rectangular hollow sections, lipped channels and complete scaffolding systems while maintaining our commitment to quality.
Q: What has sustained Taian Lanka Steel through its journey?
A: As Taian Lanka Steel marks its 15th anniversary, I look back not at our machines but at our people. An idea has grown into an organisation that provides opportunities for over 350 families, supports businesses across the country and contributes to Sri Lanka’s manufacturing sector.
Over the years, we have faced import restrictions, dollar shortages, construction booms and slowdowns, adapting to difficult circumstances while continuing to move forward. What kept us alive? Trust.
I learned early that advertising can introduce a company and promises can open a conversation but lasting confidence must be earned through experience. It comes from delivering what you commit to, maintaining quality despite rising costs and standing by customers when they need you.
Our customers trusted us when we were still establishing our name. And our dealers and bankers trusted us when we were small. That trust remains one of our strongest assets.
Q: Who have been the people and partners behind Taian Lanka Steel’s journey?
A: Taian was never built by one person. Behind my journey was my elder brother and our Chairman Veeriah Thiyagarajah, who believed in my vision from the very beginning. When capital was our chief challenge, his financial support played a major role in turning the idea into a reality. His leadership continues to be the strength behind our growth.
I must also mention with gratitude our Cofounder and Factory Manager Thangavel Punithan, who has been with us since day one. He suggested the name ‘Taian Lanka’ and has been a pillar of our journey through his loyalty and commitment. He is not merely a manager – he is family.
The company was also shaped by our employees. Many joined as helpers and are now managers, growing alongside the company. They worked night shifts when orders were urgent and treated Taian as their own family.
Our customers, suppliers and transport partners also became part of our progress. Every hardware shop owner and contractor who gave us an opportunity is part of this story.
I must also mention with deep respect our Chinese partners. What began in 2010 as a business relationship around machinery grew into a partnership built on trust, mutual respect and a shared vision for manufacturing. Their knowledge, technology, engineering guidance and continued support have contributed to Taian’s development.
Q: What are your ambitions for Taian Lanka Steel’s next chapter?
A: My ambition is not simply to make the company bigger. It is to make it better.
We will continue investing in manufacturing capabilities, technology, our people and quality control, while adapting to the changing needs of the construction industry.
My dream is to take Sri Lankan manufacturing farther into international markets. For too long, the world has known Sri Lanka for tea and tourism… why not for steel? We have the talent, work ethic and capabilities to build products here, create value here and compete beyond our shores.
By creating employment, strengthening local manufacturing and supporting industries such as construction and housing, we can contribute to Sri Lanka’s economic development beyond our own business.
Q: As you look to the future, what remains at the heart of your vision?
A: Fifteen years ago, one question started this journey: why can’t we build something of our own?
Today, we can see how far that question has taken us. From a small trading shop in Old Moor Street to becoming Sri Lanka’s first and largest steel tube manufacturer; from relying on imported steel to saving millions in foreign exchange; and from five people to supporting 350 families.
But there is still more to learn, improve and build. The curiosity that brought me into the steel sector remains.
Our first 15 years laid the foundation. The next chapter is ours to build.
– Compiled by Prashanthi Cooray
CONTACT DETAILS
- Telephone: 2332253
- Email: info@taianlankasteel.com
- Website: www.taianlankasteel.com
