Sri Lanka is accelerating its digital transformation agenda, with plans to onboard over 150 government institutions to the GovPay digital payment platform by September 2025. The initiative, led by the Digital Economy Ministry and the Information and Communication Technology Agency (ICTA), aims to drive a cashless, efficient, and transparent public service.
Since its launch in February 2025, GovPay has facilitated over Rs. 65.62 million in digital payments through more than 7,000 transactions across 52 state institutions. Speaking at a press briefing, Deputy Digital Economy Minister Eng. Eranga Weeraratne highlighted digitalisation as a top priority for the Government, describing digital payments as a key pillar in building a modern, inclusive economy.
“A cashless society is not just about convenience. It’s about empowering citizens, especially MSMEs, by improving access to financial tools like microcredit through formal digital records,” he said.
Chief Presidential Adviser on the Digital Economy and ICTA Chairperson Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya emphasized GovPay’s role within the broader Digital Economy Blueprint, which includes infrastructure like broadband, hybrid cloud computing, and Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI). He confirmed plans to expand broadband access nationwide within the next 3–5 years, while integrating local and international cloud services to support the Government’s digital services.
Dr. Wijayasuriya added that a digital ID system is expected by early 2026, followed by nationwide population registration. These systems will serve as the foundation for public services and innovation, enabling developers to build applications through open APIs and sandbox testing environments.
GovPay is already integrated with major banks and fintech platforms, and discussions are ongoing to add credit and debit card payment capabilities by August. LankaPay CEO Channa de Silva noted that this will extend access to overseas users and increase convenience. He also underscored potential economic gains, with digital payments expected to save around 0.6% of GDP by reducing cash handling costs.
ICTA Board Member Harsha Purasinghe revealed that by 2026, GovPay is targeting Rs. 1 billion in transaction value, and aims for Rs. 1 trillion within four years. The initiative is forecasted to contribute over $3 billion in economic value by 2030.
A key use case rolling out soon is the digital payment of traffic fines. A pilot will begin this month across police stations in the Western and Southern Provinces, with nationwide implementation due by September. Officers will be issued devices for issuing e-charge sheets, linked to the ‘D-mail’ real-time vehicle verification system. This project will also be among the first to adopt the upcoming national digital ID system.
GovPay, officials say, is central to Sri Lanka’s goal of becoming a $15 billion digital economy by 2030.
