Malithi Ama

Background

About Malithi Ama

I am an Economist and Project Officer specializing in agricultural development, trade, and sustainable value chain governance. I currently work at the Institute of Policy Studies of Sri Lanka (IPS) under the Agriculture and Agribusiness Development Unit, contributing to national and international research collaborations aimed at strengthening Sri Lanka’s agri-based industries and trade competitiveness.My work includes the Geographical Indication (GI) certification for Ceylon Tea, implemented in collaboration with CIRAD and the Agence Française de Développement (AFD), where I coordinate field research, stakeholder engagement, and data analysis to support policy implementation and market recognition of Ceylon Tea. I also contribute to the UNIDO Project on Developing a Roadmap and Strategic Plan for Sri Lanka’s Coconut Sector, which focuses on enhancing sectoral competitiveness, promoting value addition, and advancing sustainable industrial development through evidence-based policy recommendations. In addition, I have been involved in the WIPO–NIPO Project on Mapping Institutions Supporting Innovative SMEs and Startups in Sri Lanka, aimed at strengthening the country’s innovation ecosystem and promoting intellectual property awareness among entrepreneurs.Before joining IPS as a Project Officer, I interned in both the Agriculture & Agribusiness Development Unit and the Health, Education & Labour Unit, gaining experience in applied economic research, survey design, and policy documentation.I hold a BA (Hons) in Economics from the University of Colombo, and my research interests include agricultural economics, gender and labour studies, and international trade. My recent research explores the gender wage gap in Sri Lanka’s service sector and the market potential for Ceylon Tea GI, reflecting my commitment to connecting research with practical and inclusive policy outcomes.Outside of work, I enjoy sports, reading, volunteering, traveling, and music.