J.R. Jayewardene appointed him to his cabinet as Minister of Trade. In 1978, he received the additional portfolio of shipping, as Minister of Trade and Shipping, which he held till 1984. During this time, as Minister of Trade, he introduced Intellectual Property Law; established the Sri Lanka Export Development Board and the Ports Authority.
J.R. Jayewardene appointed him to his cabinet as Minister of Trade. In 1978, he was given additional responsibilities as Minister of Trade and Shipping, which he held until 1984. During this period, as Minister of Trade, he introduced Intellectual Property Law; established the Sri Lanka Export Development Board and the Ports Authority.