The Ministry of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development has announced plans to appoint a special expert committee to investigate and report on plastic-based products in the market that pose health risks to children.
Addressing a media briefing in Colombo yesterday, the Minister stated that decisive action will be taken within the next two months to prevent the circulation of such hazardous plastic items, particularly those used by children, based on the committee’s findings.
He specifically warned against plastic bottles used by children to store hot water, stating that laboratory tests have shown these products may release harmful substances when exposed to heat. “Some of these materials have been found to pose serious health risks, including the potential to release carcinogens during production and use,” he said.
The Minister emphasized that global attention has been drawn to the dangers of plastic products, especially those containing cancer-causing chemicals. He confirmed that local investigations have also revealed high-risk levels in several plastic items currently available in the market.
“We will summon importers and manufacturers and present the findings to them. The committee will be comprised of health and industry experts, and all stakeholders will be invited to raise their concerns. Based on the recommendations we receive, we will take the strongest possible regulatory and enforcement actions to protect children,” he added.
The Government’s upcoming measures are expected to include regulatory restrictions, stricter import controls, and potential bans on certain plastic products deemed unsafe for children.
Chairman of the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL), Nimal Punchihewa, has revealed that 49 individuals have died in police custody between 2020 and March 2025, with an additional 30 deaths occurring during confrontations involving the Police. He described these figures as deeply concerning, especially as the Police are entrusted with the duty of upholding law and order—not violating it.
Punchihewa made these remarks at a human rights awareness programme held at the Kandy District Secretariat, organised by the HRCSL’s Kandy District Coordination Office to strengthen human rights protection mechanisms and reinforce the rule of law among public officials.
Highlighting emerging trends, Punchihewa stated that more complaints of human rights violations are now being reported from within the school system than from law enforcement agencies. “We receive numerous reports of teachers physically punishing students, along with incidents of ragging and other abusive behaviour,” he said. He stressed that teachers have no legal authority to inflict physical or mental harm on children under the guise of discipline, and that ragging constitutes a violation of human rights and fundamental freedoms under Sri Lankan law.
Addressing misconduct by law enforcement, Punchihewa clarified that while only a small number of officers are responsible for such abuses, their actions severely damage the credibility of the entire Police Department. “The erosion of public trust and respect toward the Police is alarming. Only by working closely with the people can the Police truly serve the nation,” he added.
Punchihewa also spoke against the unlawful arrests of women alleged to be involved in prostitution, stating that police officers cannot arrest women merely for being present at massage parlours. “The law allows action only against brothel operators. Women cannot be arrested unless proper investigations are conducted and judicial authorization is obtained,” he explained. He noted that while there is no legal restriction on detaining individuals for social health screenings, arrests must follow due legal process, unless carried out under specific provisions like the Quarantine and Prevention of Diseases Ordinance.
The event was also addressed by Kandy District Secretary Indika Udawatta and HRCSL Kandy District Coordinator Wiranjan Dias Sumanasekara, who emphasized the importance of safeguarding human rights at all levels of governance and public service.
The Government today officially launched the ‘Praja Shakthi’ National Programme, a comprehensive initiative aimed at eradicating rural poverty through community empowerment and targeted development interventions. The launch ceremony took place at Temple Trees under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
The ‘Praja Shakthi’ programme is designed to operate under an integrated and inclusive organizational structure, aligning with the Government’s vision of “A Prosperous Country – A Secured Life.” The initiative aims to address multidimensional poverty through a multi-pronged approach that combines social security, economic inclusion, and institutional reform.
Speaking at a media briefing held yesterday at the Government Information Department, Rural Development, Social Security and Community Empowerment Minister Upali Pannilage explained that Praja Shakthi Councils will be established in each village, comprising both public officials and community members. These councils will be responsible for developing customized village development plans and strengthening local governance structures to ensure effective service delivery and inclusive growth.
The programme will also bolster Sri Lanka’s national social welfare system, improving its ability to support vulnerable groups while unlocking the country’s untapped economic potential.
Oversight for the initiative will be provided by the Praja Shakthi National Operations Committee, which includes nine Ministry Secretaries and Chief Secretaries of Provincial Councils. The committee will be convened by Senior Additional Secretary (Development Administration) to the President, Kapila Janaka Bandara.
Among the Government’s three flagship national development programmes, Praja Shakthi specifically targets rural and estate sectors, where 95.3% of those affected by multidimensional poverty currently live. The programme seeks to reverse this trend by strategically directing resources and building institutional capacity for sustainable, people-centric development.
Secretary to the President Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake and Senior Additional Secretary Kapila Janaka Bandara were also present at today’s launch event.
Several spells of light showers will occur in the Western, Sabaragamuwa and North-western provinces and in Nuwara-Eliya, Kandy, Galle and Matara districts.
Showers or thundershowers may occur at a few places in the Uva province and in Ampara and Batticaloa districts during the afternoon or night.
Fairly strong winds of about (30-40) kmph can be expected at times over Western slopes of the central hills and in Northern, North-central and North-western provinces and in Trincomalee and Hambantota districts.
The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimize damages caused by temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.
July 03, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lankan job seekers hoping to work in South Korea have faced months of uncertainty and frustration due to delays in implementing the much-anticipated Korean E-8 seasonal employment visa program.
Thousands of potential migrant workers, particularly from rural areas, have pinned their hopes on this opportunity as local job prospects remain limited. However, the lack of a finalized agreement and slow administrative processes have heightened anxiety among applicants, raising concerns over missed opportunities and growing financial burdens.
With rising living costs and unemployment levels in Sri Lanka, foreign employment has become an essential income source — making the delay in launching the E-8 visa system a critical issue for many families.
In a significant development, the Sri Lankan Cabinet has now approved a pilot project aimed at deploying local workers to the Republic of Korea under the E-8 visa category for seasonal employment.
The move follows a proposal submitted by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, Vijitha Herath, who sought authorization to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Yongvol, a local government institution in Korea.
This MoU will enable Sri Lankans to secure short-term employment — typically between 5 to 8 months — in Korea’s agriculture and fisheries sectors. These jobs are based in the rural provinces of Yongvol, offering workers not only an opportunity to earn but also to contribute significantly to Sri Lanka’s foreign exchange earnings during a time of economic recovery.
Negotiations leading to this agreement were conducted through diplomatic channels with various Korean local authorities, culminating in a consensus with Yongvol. The Attorney General’s Department has granted clearance for the MoU, clearing the final legal hurdle for implementation.
The Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE) will handle the recruitment process and facilitate worker deployment. Its Chairman, Kosala Wickramasinghe, confirmed that once the agreement is formalized, efforts will be accelerated to recruit eligible candidates and commence placements without further delay.
Wickramasinghe also issued a strong warning to job seekers not to fall prey to fraudulent agents or intermediaries, emphasizing that recruitment under this pilot program will be managed solely by the Sri Lankan government. “No one should hand over money or their passports to any outside party,” he stressed.
The long-awaited pilot program is expected to restore hope among many Sri Lankan job seekers while strengthening labor ties between Sri Lanka and Korea in the coming months.
July 03, Colombo (LNW): As Sri Lanka navigates a fragile recovery from its recent economic crisis, government officials continue to present varied data on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), raising concerns over the authenticity and consistency of reported figures.
With global investors exercising increased caution due to volatile international markets, energy insecurity, and inflationary pressures, the reliability of these optimistic projections has become a key talking point among economists and opposition critics.
Despite this, the Board of Investment (BOI) has released figures suggesting renewed investor confidence and a marked increase in capital inflows.
The BOI recently announced a significant rise in FDI inflows and investment proposals during the first half of 2025 compared to the same period last year. Citing the government’s commitment to macroeconomic stability and consistent policy reforms, the BOI claimed it had received 79 investment proposals by June 2025.
These included 40 Greenfield projects and 39 expansion proposals, collectively valued at US$ 4.67 billion. Of this, US$ 3.89 billion is expected from foreign sources, with the remaining US$ 770 million to come from local investors—an 18% increase over the previous year’s figures.
The proposals span multiple sectors including manufacturing (especially tyre and track production for export), mineral processing, apparel, energy, tourism, agriculture, real estate, and ICT.
Investors from countries such as Canada, China, India, Singapore, Switzerland, South Korea, Australia, and the Netherlands were among those who submitted proposals, indicating continued interest in Sri Lanka’s potential as a regional investment hub.
There has also been a significant uptick in expansion efforts by existing ventures, particularly in telecommunications, ICT, rubber-based manufacturing, port development, and apartment construction. These expansion proposals amount to an estimated US$ 322 million.
From January to June 2025, the BOI approved 48 projects—28 new and 20 expansions—valued at US$ 499 million, marking a 28% year-on-year increase. These projects are projected to generate around 10,000 employment opportunities once fully operational.
Meanwhile, actual realized FDI during the first quarter of 2025 reached US$ 203 million—a dramatic 90% increase from US$ 107 million in Q1 2024. Notably, 41% of this was directed toward port development, 34% to manufacturing, 20% to tourism and leisure, with the remainder spread across ICT, agriculture, property, and telecom sectors. Realized local investment also rose to US$ 87 million, up 32% from the previous year.
BOI-registered enterprises continue to play a vital role in Sri Lanka’s export economy. Between January and April 2025, these firms recorded merchandise exports worth US$ 2.66 billion—7% higher than in the same period of 2024. This accounts for 59% of total national merchandise exports and 73% of industrial exports.
Adding to the positive outlook, the BOI reported increased foreign engagement, having hosted delegations from over a dozen countries—including Japan, Germany, India, China, and the UAE—during the first half of 2025.
While the BOI’s figures offer a hopeful narrative of economic resurgence, experts emphasize the importance of independently verified data and long-term policy consistency to sustain investor trust amid a still-challenging global investment climate.
July 03, Colombo (LNW): In a strategic move to strengthen its export ecosystem, Sri Lanka has partnered with Australia to harness international best practices in trade promotion, aiming to empower local exporters and improve global market access.
The Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB), together with the Australian High Commission, the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade), and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), hosted a high-level seminar titled “Leveraging Australian Best Practices in Export Promotion” on 30 June in Colombo.
Held under the framework of the Australia-Sri Lanka Trade and Investment Framework Arrangement (TIFA), the event brought together policymakers, trade experts, and business leaders from both nations. Discussions centred on how Sri Lanka can adopt Australia’s advanced export development strategies to fuel its own trade-led growth, particularly by supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
Opening the seminar, EDB Chairman/CEO Mangala Wijesinghe stressed the importance of integrating global best practices into Sri Lanka’s export policy. He highlighted the urgent need for trade facilitation reforms and capacity building to increase the competitiveness of Sri Lankan products in international markets. “This seminar comes at a critical time as we seek to accelerate export growth and strengthen the role of SMEs in driving economic recovery,” he said.
K.A. Vimalenthirarajah, Secretary to the Ministry of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development, reiterated the government’s commitment to an export-oriented development model. He acknowledged the significance of TIFA in deepening Sri Lanka’s international trade partnerships and fostering innovation in export policy.
Australian High Commissioner Paul Stephens reaffirmed Australia’s support for Sri Lanka’s economic aspirations. “Australia is pleased to work alongside Sri Lanka to promote sustainable and inclusive export growth,” he said, noting the long-standing trade relationship between the two nations and the shared interest in economic resilience.
The seminar featured two technical sessions. Sharini McEwen, First Secretary of the Australian High Commission in Colombo, led the first session on market access and trade facilitation. She explained how Australian exporters use Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) to penetrate new markets and overcome non-tariff barriers—strategies that could be replicated by Sri Lankan exporters.
In the second session, Nathan Davis, Austrade Trade Commissioner from New Delhi, outlined Australia’s holistic export promotion model. His presentation covered Austrade’s role in guiding businesses through export processes, providing grants, and connecting them with international buyers.
A standout feature of the event was a panel discussion on Supporting SME Export Growth, where experts from EDB, Department of Commerce, and Austrade explored practical steps to scale Sri Lankan SMEs globally, adapting successful Australian approaches to local contexts.
The interactive Q&A that followed reflected strong engagement from participants, who raised questions on market intelligence, export financing, and digital trade tools.
The seminar marked a significant step in Australia-Sri Lanka economic cooperation, underscoring the value of knowledge-sharing to improve export performance and competitiveness in a challenging global environment.
July 03, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s energy-intensive industrial sector is receiving a major boost in its journey toward sustainability through a European Union (EU)-funded initiative aimed at combating climate change and promoting economic resilience.
The project, titled Accelerating Industries’ Climate Response in Sri Lanka (AICRSL), comes at a critical time when the country faces both economic uncertainty and escalating climate risks.
With heavy industries accounting for a substantial share of energy consumption and emissions, the program aims to equip these sectors with the tools, knowledge, and resources to transition to low-carbon practices.
The AICRSL initiative is financed by a €7.56 million (approximately LKR 2.8 billion) grant from the EU and is being implemented by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO).
The five-year program seeks to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from Sri Lanka’s industrial sector by 7% by 2030, while improving energy efficiency and competitiveness.
At the heart of the project is support for Sri Lanka’s manufacturing and production industries, many of which rely heavily on fossil fuels and outdated technologies.
The program introduces robust systems for measurement, reporting, and verification (MRV) of emissions, while also assisting in the development of policies that promote clean energy and low-carbon industrial processes.
Speaking at a national forum held in Colombo, Secretary to the Ministry of Industries and Entrepreneurship Development Thilaka Jayasundara emphasized the project’s impact: “To claim a significant share in the global market, our industries must outperform the competition through sustainable transformation.
The EU-funded AICRSL project has made a remarkable contribution by helping energy-intensive industries become more energy efficient and reducing their carbon footprint. This initiative is creating a momentum for broader industrial decarbonization.”
Johann Hesse, Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to Sri Lanka, praised the country’s commitment to energy efficiency. “Today’s events have shown Sri Lanka’s resolve to transform its industrial sector in line with climate goals.
This aligns with international environmental commitments and the EU’s Global Gateway strategy. We are pleased to support this important transition,” he stated.
The forum brought together government officials, industry leaders, and international stakeholders to discuss collaborative approaches for emissions reduction, resilience building, and sustainable industrial growth.
One key focus was on empowering industry managers and service providers with training in renewable energy and energy efficiency, while also unlocking financing opportunities to scale up investment in green technologies.
By supporting knowledge sharing, technical upgrades, and strategic policy-making, the EU-backed project aims to position Sri Lanka’s industries on a path toward long-term climate resilience and global market relevance.
July 03, Colombo (LNW):Headline: Under the visionary leadership of the Global Service Team of Lions District 306 D5, the Lions Club of Veyangoda Vanguard successfully carried out a massive tree planting initiative, planting 1000 trees along the Central Expressway at the Mirigama Entrance on 3rd July 2025 (today).
This impactful project was conducted in a proud partnership with Senehase Siyapatha Foundation, Road Development Authority and MAS Active Shadowline, uniting multiple sectors for a greener tomorrow.
This green undertaking stands as a shining example of what can be achieved through united community action and a shared vision for a healthier planet.
Tree planting has long been recognised as one of the most effective and impactful ways to combat climate change, reduce carbon footprints, and enhance biodiversity. Trees not only act as natural air purifiers—absorbing harmful carbon dioxide and releasing life-sustaining oxygen—but also provide essential habitats for countless species. Furthermore, they play a critical role in maintaining soil health, preventing erosion, and regulating the local climate.
Planting trees along major highways is especially beneficial, as it helps reduce roadside dust and noise pollution, cools the surrounding environment, and contributes to the aesthetic and ecological value of the area. In the long term, such efforts are expected to improve air quality and provide a more pleasant travel experience for commuters.
The Lions Club of Veyangoda Vanguard and its partners have demonstrated that environmental care is not just a responsibility but a duty that communities must embrace collectively. Their action sends a clear message: the time to invest in the future of our planet is now. Through projects like this, a greener, more sustainable Sri Lanka is within reach.
The event was graced by the presence of our District Governor Lion Sashikumar Subramanium SCA PMJF PMAF as the Chief Guest, along with:
1st Vice District Governor – Lion Gayan Lakmal
Cabinet Secretary – Lion Roysten Fernando
District GST Coordinator – Lion Lakmal Wajirasiri MJF
District Chairperson – Environment – Lion Lalith Neththasingha
District Regional Chairperson- Environment – Lion Duminda Amarasingha
Director of Central Expressway – Mrs. Chintha And other distinguished guests.
This project is a part of the Island wide 2000 Trees Planting Campaign led by Lions Multiple District 306, reaffirming our commitment to environmental sustainability and protecting our planet for future generations.
July 03, Colombo (LNW): As a tradition, the newly elected District Governor for D5 Lion Sashikumar Subramaniyam SCA PMJF PMAF & 1st Lady Abiramy Sashikumar PMJF PMAF participated in Religious observances on 1st of July to receive divine blessings for a successful lionistic year 2025/2026.
A special pirith pooja was conducted at Rajamaha Viharaya Kelaniya at 6.30 am. Disrict Governor-elect Sashikumar Subramaniyam, 1st lady Abiramy along with Principal cabinet officers and cabinet members of District 5 sought divine blessings not only at Raja Maha Viharaya but also in Sri Kaileswaram Kovil Captains Garden, Archdiocese of Colombo, and Masjidul Qadir Jumma Masjid Slave Island.
The Archbishop of Colombo His Eminence Cardinal Malcom Ranjit bestowed blessings upon the District Governor and his team for a fruitful year ahead. The proud Lions experienced a a sense of gratitude and optimism upon receiving a divine blessing from the superior.
The event was organized to invoke blessings for the Governor and his Lady, with the theme of “SERVE WITH SASHI”.
After receiving blessings at places of worship, the Governor and his team proceeded to the 306 D5 District Office and officially inaugurated his duties by performing auspicious rituals.
May the overflowing milk bring a everlasting success to the team.
