- Head of the SMEs Organizations Tania Abeysundara says CB Governor Dr Nandalal Weerasinghe had orchestrated a scenario leading to the country’s declaration of bankruptcy unilaterally, hindering the functioning of businesses: also says there are Non-Performing Loans of about Rs.1.2 trillion solely due to the situation created by the CB Governor who pushed interest rates to record levels.
- A well known research form announces that the Govt is planning to lift import restrictions placed on small cars with engine capacities of 1000cc & 1300cc: asserts the move to relax small vehicle imports comes in the wake of limited revenue collection by SL Customs in the backdrop of stringent revenue targets set by the IMF.
- Senior FSP spokesperson Pubudu Jagoda says the FSP is urging political parties in Parliament to oppose the Govt’s decision to join the US-led coalition to protect commercial shipping in the Red Sea against continuing attacks by Yemen’s Houthi group: asserts that the move announced by President Wickremesinghe on 3rd Jan’24 had taken all political parties by surprise.
- Following the Energy Minister’s instructions to the CEB to take disciplinary action against CEB employees involved in the 3-day trade union action, Unions say they would take legal action against the CEB management if any of the workers are suspended.
- Official data reveals that SL has spent USD 326mn on vegetable imports from Jan to Nov’23, an increase from USD 297mn recorded for the same period in 2022.
- Health Unions allege that available PCR or Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) are approaching expiration, with no orders being placed for new kits: also allege that ordering test kits has not been a priority due to the ongoing economic crisis.
- A top SL Airlines official says the daily operations of the airline are currently being conducted by only around 17 Airbus aircraft, resulting in several flight delays being experienced each month: also says the airline must have a minimum of 24 aircraft to ensure smooth operations without delays.
- Hambantota International Port proves itself as the fastest growing transhipment port in the region with 700,000 transhipment vehicles handled in 2023: marks a significant 26% increase from the 2022 figures.
- Justice Minister Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe says the revised Anti-Terrorism Bill will be presented to Parliament in the first sitting week of the new year.
- Public Security Minister Tiran Alles presents official appointment letters to 4 top Cricketers who transition to roles within the SL Police after their stint with the Police Cricket Club: Kusal Janith Perera & Chamara Silva to positions as Chief Police Inspectors: Ashen Bandara & Nuwan Pradeep as Police Inspectors.
