COLOMBO, Sept 1, 2025 (ePRESS) – Lack of innovation is holding back economic growth and productivity in the Asia-Pacific, warned Chris Freeland, Chief Executive Officer of CPA (Certified Practicing Accountant) Australia.
Speaking at a CPA networking event at the Shangri-La Colombo, Freeland said the world is changing rapidly, and the accounting profession must adapt to meet new challenges.
“What is also clear is that accountants and finance professionals must continue seeking new trends and embrace new tools for economic stability and growth,” he noted.
Freeland stressed that education, development, and lifelong learning are key to keeping up with the fast-changing landscape. CPA Australia provides strong support through resources, training, and initiatives.
But challenges remain, he added, including a global shortage of skilled professionals, the need for continuous education, and difficulties in attracting and retaining talent.
CPA Australia runs several programs to prepare future leaders, such as the Mentoring Program, the Member Ambassador Program, and the CPA Program. These initiatives help professionals adapt to new technologies and develop their skills.
As part of its commitment, CPA Australia signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Sri Lanka’s Horizon Campus. Freeland said the agreement would strengthen cooperation, improve education standards, and raise global recognition of accounting and finance professionals in both countries.
CPA Australia has more than 175,000 members in over 100 countries and regions, supported by 20 offices and branches, including in Colombo.
The event was attended by Minister of Labour and Deputy Minister of Economic Development Dr. Anil Jayantha Fernando, Deputy Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Chathuranga Abeysinghe, New Zealand High Commissioner David Pine, and Dr. Paul Zeccola, First Secretary (Political & Economic) of the Australian High Commission.
