February 03, Colombo (LNW): The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has committed to a significant investment in Sri Lanka’s port and airport infrastructure, according to a recent announcement from the Ministry of Transport, Highways, Ports, and Civil Aviation.
This development follows a key meeting between Minister Bimal Rathnayake and the UAE Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Khalid Al Ameri, where both parties discussed the details of the investment.
Ambassador Al Ameri confirmed that the UAE’s contributions would extend to the development of a new airport terminal, an exciting prospect for the country’s expanding aviation sector.
This collaborative initiative is expected to provide a substantial boost to Sri Lanka’s transport infrastructure, enhancing both its ports and airports to meet growing demand.
The UAE’s investment is seen as a sign of strengthening bilateral ties and increasing economic cooperation between the two nations.
In addition to the announcement of the UAE investment, the Ministry of Transport also revealed that President Anura Kumara Dissanayake is scheduled to visit the UAE later this month for official talks.
The visit aims to further strengthen the relationship between the two countries, with discussions likely to focus on expanding cooperation in trade, infrastructure, and development projects.
February 03, Colombo (LNW): Hambantota International Port (HIP) is well-positioned to support the anticipated increase in vehicle imports after Sri Lanka’s recent lifting of the import ban, with the port’s infrastructure and operational capacity now fully aligned to accommodate the expected rise in demand.
As Sri Lanka’s automotive market begins to recover, HIP has announced that it is ready to play a pivotal role in meeting the country’s growing import needs.
The port has seen remarkable growth in its capacity to manage vehicle imports, with state-of-the-art facilities and an experienced workforce to ensure smooth operations.
HIP’s Roll-On/Roll-Off (RORO) operations have been expanding rapidly over the past few years, with volumes rising significantly from 238,997 units in 2018 to 579,362 units in 2024.
Wilson Qu, CEO of HIPG, highlighted the port’s increasing prominence as a central hub for the nation’s automotive supply chain, noting the substantial growth in RORO traffic as proof of its expanding role in the industry.
To further enhance its capabilities, HIP has established a variety of specialised facilities to streamline the vehicle import process.
These include a dedicated customs inspection bay designed to facilitate quick and efficient checks of incoming vehicles.
This facility operates around the clock, featuring 24/7 CCTV surveillance and proper lighting to ensure all vehicles are thoroughly inspected for compliance with local standards.
For vehicles awaiting clearance or inspection, HIP provides secure storage solutions, including temporary spaces for imported vehicles before they undergo the necessary processing.
The port has also set up basic amenities for wharf clerks and importers, ensuring that the clearance process is both convenient and efficient.
One of the standout features of HIP’s new infrastructure is its Vehicle Processing Stations, which manage the necessary paperwork to expedite the release of vehicles, further ensuring a seamless experience for importers.
Additionally, the port has designed a new vehicle import yard specifically to handle large volumes of vehicles, with a storage capacity for up to 4,000 units, catering to both local imports and transshipment vehicles.
Security is paramount at HIP, with stringent access controls to ensure that only authorised personnel are allowed within the vehicle yards. The entire port, including the jetty and temporary storage areas, is fully fenced and continuously monitored by 24/7 CCTV.
The port also employs mobile and foot patrols to maintain safety and ensure accountability at every stage of vehicle handling. Furthermore, the port’s illumination is in line with international standards, ensuring high visibility and security at all times.
HIP has committed to investing an additional US$ 2 million in enhancing its infrastructure. This ongoing investment will further bolster its ability to handle increasing vehicle import volumes and continue to play a crucial role in the country’s automotive supply chain.
February 03, Colombo (LNW): In a bid to commemorate the nation’s 77th Independence Day, the Ministry of Public Administration has issued a directive for all government institutions to display the national flag for an entire week.
This initiative aims to instil a sense of national pride and unity ahead of the significant national celebrations.
At the same time, the ministry has reinforced its earlier instructions to refrain from using decorative lighting during this period.
This is part of a broader effort to reduce electricity consumption and promote energy conservation, particularly in light of rising utility costs.
Security preparations for the upcoming Independence Day events have been ramped up, with 1,650 personnel from the police force and Special Task Force deployed to ensure the safety of attendees and smooth conduct of the celebrations.
In addition, authorities have rolled out a special traffic management plan to prevent disruptions to public transport and ensure the parades and main events proceed without incident.
The grand 77th National Independence Day celebration will be held tomorrow at Colombo’s Independence Square, with the President set to preside over the occasion.
However, this year’s observance will mark a departure from tradition, as the usual Presidential salute will not take place.
February 01, Colombo (LNW): The participation of 559 foreign athletes has been confirmed for the 100 INTERNATIONAL CHALLENGE CHAMPIONSHIP BADMINTON TOURNAMENTS TO BE HELD IN SRI LANKA FROM FEBRUARY 25 TO MARCH 2. The tournament, which will be held at the Sugathadasa Stadium in Colombo, will be FOLLOWED BY THE 100 INTERNATIONAL BADMINTON CHAMPIONSHIP FROM THE DAY AFTER (MARCH 3) TO MARCH 8, centered around the same venue. Representing a number of large countries such as America, Canada, Japan, Malaysia, Indonesia, etc. 559 athletes are participating in the first tournament and there is still time left for the second tournament to register.
The Sports Ministry also has an opportunity to get involved as a government, in this tournament to be held at the Sugathadasa Stadium. By focusing on the energy that will be added to the country’s economy through this tournament, if not free, then by allocating the land for the tournament at a minimum price. However, the officials working in these sports administrative units are currently busier with getting the Sports Minister to implement the agendas of their friends, so it does not seem that the Minister has paid attention to the badminton tournament yet.
108 local athletes are also scheduled to participate in this tournament, and accordingly, the total participation in the tournament will be 667.
399 Male and 268 Female players are competing in the tournament. Since a large number of applications have been received for each competition category – men’s singles, women’s singles, men’s doubles, women’s doubles and mixed doubles – it is likely that a large number of players will have to compete in the qualification rounds, depending on the rankings, in order to be included in the main draw.
Two star hotels are already available near Colombo to provide accommodation for the tournament, and it is possible that cheaper hotels or more luxurious hotels will be reserved for the athletes and their friends and staff. It will be a special occasion that will bring dollars into the country. If the government has some policy agreement on this matter and reaches a common understanding on the concessions that can be provided in the use of resources that mainly belong to the Ministry of Sports in organizing such international competitions, it may be tempting not only for badminton but also for other sports to organize international competitions.
February 03, Colombo (LNW): Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa has issued a firm directive to officials to implement comprehensive regulations governing all ingredients and products within Sri Lanka’s Ayurvedic medicine and cosmetic sectors.
The move aims to ensure greater oversight and enhance the safety and quality of these widely used products.
The minister’s comments came during a ceremony at the Ayurvedic National Hospital in Rajagiriya, where the newly appointed Chairman and members of the Ayurvedic Medicines and Products Council were presented with their appointment letters.
Addressing the need for tighter control, Minister Jayatissa underscored the growing concern over substandard products entering the market.
He stressed that the primary goal of the new regulations is to guarantee that the public has access to safe, high-quality, and reliably standardised Ayurvedic products.
“The most pressing issue we face today lies within the cosmetics sector,” the minister explained. “There are serious health risks associated with many of these products, compounded by the illegal smuggling of unregulated items. Additionally, we must address the rise of cosmetic products falsely claiming to be Ayurvedic. To rectify this, we will need to amend the NMRA Act, a process that will take some time, but it is a crucial step towards improving the situation.”
Minister Jayatissa’s call for enhanced regulation follows growing concerns over the safety of certain Ayurvedic cosmetics, which have raised alarm among both the public and health authorities.
Colombo, January 29 (LNW): The Eastern Province Badminton Tournament has not only showcased exceptional sporting talent but has also breathed new life into the local economy of Batticaloa. The event, which attracted hundreds of players and supporters, has created a ripple effect, benefiting businesses, transport services, and the hospitality industry.
A Sporting Revolution in the East
Over the past few years, Sri Lanka Badminton (SLB) has been instrumental in developing the sport at the regional level, ensuring that young talent emerges from across the country. Initiatives such as umpiring and coaching programs have contributed to raising the standard of the game, providing opportunities for skilled players to compete internationally.
This progress is evident in the rise of Viren Netthasinghe, Sri Lanka’s latest badminton Olympian, and upcoming stars like Ranithma Liyanage, who is on the path to Olympic qualification. Meanwhile, young talents like Sithumi de Silva and Isuri Attanayake continue to make waves both locally and internationally.
Under the leadership of Rohan de Silva, a prominent businessman and badminton enthusiast, SLB has secured financial backing to improve infrastructure and enhance the competitive level of the sport. This commitment has led to victories in every province and has fostered a deep-rooted passion for badminton within the Sri Lankan sports community.
The Batticaloa Boom
During the 2025 Eastern Province Badminton Tournament, the positive impact on Batticaloa’s local economy was evident. From increased demand for accommodation to thriving local businesses, the tournament became a catalyst for economic activity.
Local Pikmi driver Ramaya shared his experience, stating that the influx of visitors had boosted transportation services, with taxis and tuk-tuks in high demand. He pointed out that not only had rental incomes surged, but businesses in areas like Kanthankudi were flourishing, with extended operating hours catering to visitors.
“You can’t find a single vacant room here, sir. Everywhere is full of badminton players,” he noted enthusiastically.
His observations were backed by Delukshanth Vaas, Centre Manager at ICBT University’s Batticaloa Branch and a former Colts Cricket Club player. He highlighted that over 200 rooms were booked across the city during the tournament, with visitors spending on food, shopping, and entertainment.
“Many participants and their families took the opportunity to explore the city. Some went shopping in Pottuvil, while others stocked up on essentials like energy drinks and medicine,” Vaas explained.
Beyond the Tournament – A Sustainable Impact
Beyond the competition, the economic impact of sports tourism in Batticaloa has been profound. Small businesses, from local eateries to convenience stores, experienced a surge in sales. Visitors also explored Batticaloa’s unique landmarks, such as St. Sebastian’s Church, famously designed in the shape of a fish, and the Kalladi Bridge, home to the legendary “Singing Fish” phenomenon.
As Sri Lanka Badminton continues its regional expansion, tournaments like these not only nurture talent but also serve as a powerful economic driver, reinforcing the vital role of sports in community development.
With the success of this event, Batticaloa has proven that sports can go beyond competition—it can uplift entire communities, creating opportunities for growth and prosperity.
February 03, Colombo (LNW): Deshamanya Harry Jayawardena, one of Sri Lanka’s most influential industrialists, has passed away at the age of 82.
Known for his far-reaching business ventures and significant impact on the country’s economy, Jayawardena was a prominent figure in both the corporate and diplomatic spheres.
Born Don Harold Stassen Jayawardena, he was widely recognised for his leadership of Melstacorp PLC, a diversified conglomerate with interests in multiple sectors.
Jayawardena’s business acumen earned him a place among Sri Lanka’s wealthiest individuals, with Forbes ranking him among the country’s top billionaires.
Beyond his business achievements, Jayawardena also served as the Honorary Consul General for Denmark in Sri Lanka, further underlining his status as a key player in fostering international relations.
His leadership extended to several other prestigious companies, including the Distilleries Company of Sri Lanka and Aitken Spence, both of which were trailblazers in the Sri Lankan corporate world.
These two companies were notably the first from Sri Lanka to feature in Forbes’ list of the best-managed businesses outside of the United States.
February 03, Colombo (LNW): Showers or thundershowers may occur at a few places in Galle, Matara, Kalutara and Rathnapura districts in the evening or night, but mainly fair weather will prevail over the other areas of the island, the Department of Meteorology said in its daily weather forecast today (03).
Misty conditions can be expected at some places in Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, North-western and Uva provinces and in Galle and Matara districts during the morning.
Marine Weather:
Condition of Rain:
Mainly fair weather will prevail over sea areas around the island.
Winds:
Winds will be north-easterly and speed will be (25-35) kmph. Wind speed can increase up to 45 kmph at times in the sea areas off the coast extending from Negombo to Mannar via Puttalam and from Matara to Pottuvil via Hambantota.
State of Sea:
The sea areas off the coasts extending fromNegombo to Mannar via Puttalam and from Matara to Pottuvil via Hambantota will be fairly rough at times.
February 02, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka faces significant economic and health challenges due to alcohol consumption, with an annual economic loss of Rs. 241 billion, equating to 1.5% of the country’s GDP. According to a survey by the Alcohol and Drugs Information Centre (ADIC), Sri Lankans spend a staggering Rs. 1,210 million daily on arrack, beer, and cigarettes.
People aged 15 and above account for daily spending of Rs. 510 million on arrack, Rs. 180 million on beer, and Rs. 520 million on cigarettes.
In 2022, income generated from alcohol use was Rs. 165.2 billion, yet the health and economic costs were far higher, amounting to Rs. 237 billion. These costs include direct healthcare expenses as well as indirect factors such as absenteeism, presenteeism, and decreased productivity in the workforce.
The ADIC survey highlighted that Colombo had the highest percentage of alcohol users (35.8%), followed by Kandy (33.5%), while Jaffna had the lowest (21.4%). Beer emerged as the most consumed alcohol, representing 53.8% of alcohol use, followed by arrack at 42%.
Social events like parties and sports gatherings were found to be key triggers for alcohol consumption, with 35.6% of people reporting alcohol use initiation at such events, and 32.8% influenced by peer pressure.
Alcohol consumption leads to a significant public health burden in Sri Lanka, contributing to 4,201 deaths per 100,000 people annually from non-communicable diseases and injuries. Key causes include liver cirrhosis (2,880 deaths), road traffic accidents (675 deaths), and cancers (646 deaths).
The ADIC reports that 40 to 50 people die daily in Sri Lanka from alcohol-related causes, amounting to 15,000–20,000 deaths each year. Additionally, alcohol consumption has led to a 57% reduction in the labor force.
A public opinion poll conducted by ADIC across five provinces found strong support for more stringent alcohol policies. A majority of respondents (64%) felt that current laws were inadequate to protect against alcohol-related harm.
The poll also revealed that 93% of participants believed government involvement was essential in addressing alcohol-related issues.
Furthermore, 73% favored raising alcohol prices, 75% supported alcohol taxation, and 70% agreed that revenues from alcohol taxes should fund public services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure development.
The survey underscores the profound social and economic impacts of alcohol use in Sri Lanka, with the population largely advocating for stronger regulations and government intervention to reduce alcohol-related harm and mitigate its effects on public health and finances.
February 02, Colombo (LNW): President Anura Kumara Dissanayake (AKD) and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently reached a 34-point agreement aimed at strengthening economic cooperation between Sri Lanka and India. Among the key aspects discussed were trade, investment, and financial transactions, laying the groundwork for a closer economic partnership.
One of the most significant agreements is the revival of discussions on the Economic and Technological Cooperation Agreement (ETCA), which had previously stalled.
The leaders also agreed on facilitating direct transactions between the Indian Rupee (INR) and Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR), reducing dependency on the US dollar.
Additionally, India pledged to invest in sectors that would boost Sri Lanka’s export potential. These elements are interconnected and are expected to be central to the renewed ETCA negotiations.
Sri Lanka reaffirmed its commitment to restarting ETCA discussions, seeing it as a pathway to improving trade relations between the two nations.
This decision was highlighted during bilateral talks between AKD and Modi, with both leaders acknowledging the success of the India-Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement (ISFTA).
They expressed the need to build on this foundation by advancing ETCA negotiations, as stated in the India-Sri Lanka Joint Statement of Fostering Partnerships for a Shared Future.
Negotiations on ETCA have gone through 13 rounds, with talks resuming in November 2023 after a five-year break. The most recent round took place in January 2024, and officials anticipate finalizing the agreement by the 2025 financial year.
ETCA, an extension of the ISFTA signed in 2000, is expected to enhance trade and investment flows between the two countries.
A senior official involved in the discussions emphasized that Sri Lanka stands to benefit from integrating into India’s supply chain, leveraging its strategic location and resources.
ETCA presents new opportunities for Sri Lankan businesses to expand into India’s vast market, allowing for diversification and growth.
Additionally, cooperation in technology sectors like IT and telecommunications could facilitate skill development, innovation, and knowledge transfer.
This agreement is intended to replace the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which was proposed in 2003 under the Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga–Ranil Wickremesinghe administration but never materialized.
The ISFTA, a precursor to ETCA, was Sri Lanka’s first free trade agreement, signed in December 1998 and fully implemented by March 2000.
However, it has resulted in a substantial trade imbalance. Over 15 years, India’s exports to Sri Lanka amounted to $4,023 million, while Sri Lanka’s exports to India were only $625 million, according to Dr. Naresh Bana, Vice Chairman of the Indo-Sri Lanka Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Despite the economic benefits ETCA promises, it has faced strong opposition. Critics argue that increased competition from Indian professionals, particularly in IT, could threaten Sri Lankan small-scale industries and technical service providers, potentially impacting local employment and wages.
Additionally, concerns have been raised about a growing trade deficit, which, if not carefully managed, could lead to economic instability. Skeptics also fear that closer economic ties might compromise Sri Lanka’s economic sovereignty and limit its independent policy-making capacity.
The success of ETCA hinges on addressing these concerns while ensuring a mutually beneficial agreement. Transparent negotiations with protective safeguards will be essential to maintaining a balanced trade relationship that fosters economic growth without undermining national interests.
