September 16, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka recorded their second triumph in the ongoing 2025 Men’s T20 Asia Cup, overcoming Hong Kong by four wickets in a spirited encounter under the lights in Dubai.
After winning the toss, Sri Lankan captain Charith Asalanka opted to field first—a decision that paid dividends as the bowlers kept Hong Kong’s batsmen largely in check throughout the innings.
Despite a promising start, Hong Kong’s top order struggled to build lasting partnerships. Their first wicket fell with 41 on the board, and though the innings maintained a steady pace, the Sri Lankan bowling attack prevented any major acceleration.
Zeeshan Ali chipped in with 23 runs, and Anshy Rath added a resilient 48. The highlight for Hong Kong, however, came from Nizakat Khan, whose composed 52 off 38 deliveries anchored the innings and gave them a fighting total.
Sri Lanka’s bowlers remained disciplined, with Dushmantha Chameera picking up two crucial wickets, while Wanindu Hasaranga and Dasun Shanaka each took one. Hong Kong concluded their innings at 149 for 4, setting a target that was competitive but within reach on a good batting surface.
In reply, Sri Lanka’s run chase began with Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis at the crease. Mendis departed early after scoring 11, but Nissanka soon took control, demonstrating excellent shot selection and composure under pressure. His 68 off 44 balls, punctuated by six boundaries and two sixes, proved to be the backbone of the innings.
Kamil Mishara added a handy 19, while the middle order chipped away at the target with steady contributions. Although Hong Kong managed to pick up wickets at intervals and briefly stalled the chase, the Lankans held their nerve. They reached the target in 18.5 overs, closing the match at 150 for 6.
Sri Lanka Clinch Second Victory in Asia Cup with Confident Win Over Hong Kong
Customs Surpasses Revenue Targets with Record Collections
September 16, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka Customs has reported an exceptional surge in revenue generation, with earnings in recent months far exceeding projected targets and marking one of the department’s most successful periods in recent history.
According to official figures, Customs revenue for August reached an impressive Rs. 244 billion—comfortably surpassing the monthly target of Rs. 190 billion.
This strong performance follows similarly high earnings in previous months, with Rs. 231 billion collected in July and Rs. 200 billion in June.
Cumulatively, Customs has brought in Rs. 1,471 billion during the first eight months of 2025, reflecting a substantial increase when compared to the same period in the previous year.
Officials attribute the rise to enhanced monitoring mechanisms, improved enforcement at ports, and the streamlining of key processes through digitalisation and risk-based inspections.
Islandwide Police Operations Lead to Arrest of 24 Wanted Suspects
September 16, Colombo (LNW): A series of coordinated police operations carried out across the country on Monday (15) have led to the arrest of 24 individuals who were actively sought in connection with a range of criminal activities.
According to the Sri Lanka Police, these targeted efforts formed part of a broader crackdown aimed at tackling crime and drug-related offences nationwide.
Over the course of the operations, law enforcement officers conducted identity checks and background verifications on a total of 27,580 individuals at various locations across the island.
As a result of these checks, 598 persons were taken into custody on suspicion, with further investigations ongoing to determine their possible involvement in unlawful activity.
Among those apprehended were 248 individuals against whom formal court-issued warrants were in effect. Additionally, 170 others were arrested in relation to open warrants that had previously gone unexecuted.
Manufacturing and Services Sectors Continue Growth Momentum in August: Central Bank
September 16, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s economic activity showed continued signs of resilience in August 2025, with both the manufacturing and services sectors maintaining their growth trajectories, according to the latest data released by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL).
The Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) registered a value of 55.2 for the month, suggesting ongoing expansion within the sector, though at a slightly moderated pace compared to July. A PMI reading above 50 typically indicates growth, and August’s figure points to steady, if not accelerated, industrial activity.
Key contributors to this growth were the increases recorded in the New Orders and Production sub-indices, largely driven by the performance of the food and beverages sector. Stockpiling of raw materials also saw an uptick, with the Stock of Purchases sub-index moving in tandem with the rise in production and new orders—suggesting firms are preparing to meet continued demand in the coming months.
Employment within the manufacturing sector remained positive, reflecting stable hiring conditions and increased production capacity. However, suppliers’ delivery times continued to be a challenge, with businesses reporting extended delays, particularly in international shipping. While these logistical bottlenecks are not new, they appear to have persisted, creating planning difficulties for some manufacturers.
Meanwhile, the services sector delivered a notably strong performance, with the Services PMI reaching 68.9—well above the threshold for growth. This marks a continuation of the expansion trend observed over the past year, highlighting ongoing strength in sectors such as hospitality, transport, retail, and financial services.
Business activity across services was supported by broad-based improvement across multiple industries, with sustained consumer demand and increased tourism inflows playing a role in the upbeat outlook.
According to the Central Bank, all key sub-indices for both manufacturing and services remained firmly above the neutral 50 mark, reinforcing the overall picture of economic expansion.
Looking ahead, expectations for manufacturing remain optimistic, particularly in light of anticipated year-end seasonal demand. Businesses across both sectors appear to be positioning themselves for a busy final quarter, although ongoing global supply chain disruptions could temper some of that momentum.
Tourist Arrivals Continue Upward Trend as September Sees Over 75,000 Visitors in Two Weeks
September 16, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s tourism sector has continued its upward momentum into September, with over 75,000 international visitors arriving in the first half of the month, according to the latest figures released by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA).
Between September 01 and 14, the country welcomed 75,358 tourists, reflecting sustained interest in Sri Lanka as a travel destination. India continues to lead as the most significant contributor to inbound tourism, with 21,389 Indian nationals arriving during this period—accounting for 28.4 per cent of the total arrivals.
Other key source markets during the first two weeks of September include the United Kingdom with 5,714 visitors, Germany with 4,817, China with 4,056, and France contributing 3,834 travellers. These numbers highlight the steady return of European and Asian tourists to the island, particularly as global travel confidence continues to recover.
The cumulative tourist arrivals for the year 2025 have now reached 1,641,881, solidifying expectations that this year may become one of the strongest post-pandemic periods for the local tourism industry. Of this total, India remains firmly in the lead with 346,984 visitors, followed by the United Kingdom with 156,855 and Russia with 120,314.
The month of August saw 198,235 foreign arrivals, marking a significant 20.4 per cent increase when compared to August 2024. This boost underscores a broader trend of recovery and growth in the sector, though concerns remain regarding the consistency of tourist spending.
Govt Rolls Out Digital Signatures to Streamline Public Service Operations
September 16, Colombo (LNW): A significant step towards modernising Sri Lanka’s public administration was taken this week with the official introduction of a digital signature system for government officials, aimed at enhancing efficiency, transparency, and responsiveness in state services.
Speaking at a formal event held yesterday (15) to launch the initiative within the Home Affairs Division, Minister of Public Administration, Provincial Councils, and Local Government, Dr Chandana Abeyratne, described the move as a cornerstone of the government’s broader vision to transition towards fully digital public service delivery.
“Our goal is to lead public institutions into a new digital era—one where administrative processes are not only faster, but also smarter and more accountable,” the Minister said. He added that the technology will help reduce bureaucratic red tape, eliminate unnecessary delays, and ultimately bring services closer to the people.
The digitisation effort has begun with officials operating within District and Divisional Secretariats under the Home Affairs Division. These digital signatures are being introduced under the framework of the Electronic Transactions Act No. 19 of 2006, which provides the legal foundation for secure electronic communication in public administration. LankaPay has been authorised to issue the digital certificates in accordance with the Act’s provisions.
Dr Abeyratne stressed the importance of expanding the initiative to include Grama Niladhari officers, who serve as the primary point of contact between the state and local communities. According to the Minister, integrating these grassroots officials into the digital platform will further reduce delays in day-to-day administrative procedures and allow citizens to access essential services more reliably.
The new system will allow public officials to authenticate documents and communications electronically, eliminating the need for physical paperwork in many routine processes. Officials expect this reform to significantly reduce the backlog of pending files and contribute to a leaner, more agile public sector.
Dep Minister Watagala Lodges Complaint with CID Over Online Defamation Claims
September 16, Colombo (LNW): Deputy Minister of Public Security Sunil Watagala has formally approached the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) following the circulation of what he describes as deliberately false and defamatory allegations against him on social media platforms.
In an official complaint lodged with the CID, Watagala has requested a full investigation into the origins and spread of online posts that accuse him of purchasing a luxury apartment in an upscale residential development in Colombo. He has firmly denied the allegations, branding them as entirely baseless and malicious in intent.
Taking to his verified Facebook page, the Deputy Minister addressed the controversy directly, stating that he has never made such a purchase and has not acted in any way that could undermine public trust or the confidence of his political party.
Reaffirming his steadfast belief in the principle of free expression, Watagala also drew a clear distinction between legitimate criticism and targeted misinformation. “Freedom of speech must never be weaponised to undermine democracy or attack individuals with lies. To do so dishonours those who fought to protect that very right,” he said.
In addition to the criminal complaint, the Deputy Minister has confirmed that he will initiate civil proceedings to claim damages from those identified as being responsible for the dissemination of the defamatory content. Legal measures, he emphasised, will be pursued both under civil and criminal law.
Cloudy skies expected in many districts: Showers expected elsewhere (Sep 16)
September 16, Colombo (LNW): Cloudy skies can be expected over Northern, North-Central, Eastern, Uva and Central provinces, with several spells of showers expected in Western and Sabaragamuwa provinces and in Galle, Matara, Kandy and Nuwara-Eliya districts, the Department of Meteorology said in its daily weather forecast today (16).
Showers or thundershowers will occur at several places in Uva and Eastern provinces and in Mullaittivu district after 1.00 p.m.
The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimise damages caused by temporary localised strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.
Marine Weather:
Condition of Rain:
Showers will occur at several places in the sea areas off the coast extending from Colombo to Matara via Galle. Showers may occur at a few places in the sea areas off the coast extending from Mullaittivu to
Pottuvil via Trincomalee and Batticaloa.
Winds:
Winds will be south-westerly and wind speed will be (30-40) kmph.
Wind speed can increase up to (50-55) kmph at times in the sea areas off the coast extending from Matara to Pottuvil via Hambantota.
Wind speed can increase up to (45-50) kmph at times in the sea areas off the coast extending from Chilaw to Mannar via Puttalam.
State of Sea:
The sea areas off the coast extending from Matara to Pottuvil via Hambantota may be rough at times. The sea areas off the coast extending from Chilaw to Mannar via Puttalam may be fairly rough at times.
CPC Blocks Competitive Fuel procurement Bidding Costly Monopolies Persist
By:Staff Writer
September 15, Colombo (LNW): A tense row between the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) and the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) has crystallised into a policy fight with concrete fiscal consequences: efforts by the CEB to push competitive international bidding for thermal fuel procurement have been resisted by CPC, while recent CPC-awarded contracts show the state-owned supplier remains the gatekeeper of large fuel deals.
CEB engineers argue competitive bids would discipline prices, secure bulk discounts and protect consumers from arbitrary mark-ups.
Their confidential letter to senior energy and finance officials warns that CPC’s control over pipelines, port access and bulk supply effectively lets it veto any move that would let the CEB buy directly from international traders or alternative suppliers.
The engineers claim recent internal pricing moves including reported increases in naphtha and heavy fuel oil (HFO) are being passed straight to electricity tariffs.
At the same time, public procurement records and media reporting show CPC continuing to run large, centrally awarded supply contracts after inviting bids from its pool of registered suppliers.
For example, the Cabinet approved a contract in May 2025 awarding five shipments of diesel (0.05% MS) to Singapore’s Trafigura Pte Ltd for deliveries from June to November 2025; the CPC called for bids from its registered supplier list and seven bidders submitted offers.
Earlier procurement rounds illustrate the limited, tightly-managed market. The state awarded long-term crude shipments to Vitol Asia (2.1 million barrels, Murban crude) following a CPC-led tender that attracted five bids.
And in August 2025 the Cabinet approved a 1.5 million-barrel Octane 92 supply contract to Aditya Birla Global Trading (Singapore) after the CPC received eight bids. These awards confirm that large purchases are routed through CPC processes not direct open international tendering by major buyers such as the CEB.
CPC’s procurement rules themselves reserve many large purchases for “registered suppliers,” and its procurement documents routinely restrict bidding eligibility to those on the register a mechanism that concentrates access and can limit price competition. CPC tender documents and CPSTL registration guidance filed in 2025 make clear that quotations are normally called from that registered list.
CPC management insists it is not blocking bidding per se but says that if the CEB wants to procure externally, CPC should be released from supply obligations a position it frames as a risk-allocation, not obstruction.
Critics counter that this is a circular logic: CPC’s control of infrastructure plus exclusive procurement channels gives it leverage to protect margins at the expense of tariff-paying consumers.
The clash is more than a bureaucratic spat. With thermal fuel costs accounting for a material share of generation expense, allowing true competitive bidding open to global traders on transparent terms and backed by independent logistics access could reduce generation costs and blunt tariff pressure.
Whether policymakers break the bottleneck around CPC’s procurement architecture will determine if Sri Lanka achieves that saving, or if monopoly dynamics keep electricity prices elevated.
Sri Lanka Tourist Arrivals Cross 1.6 Million as NPP Pushes Industry Revival
By:Staff Writer
September 15, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s tourism industry continues to gain momentum under the new National People’s Power (NPP) government, with fresh data from the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) showing 52,246 tourist arrivals in the first two weeks of September 2025.
India remains the country’s largest source market, contributing 14,300 visitors so far this month, or 27.4% of arrivals. The United Kingdom followed with 4,092 tourists, while Germany (3,488), China (2,796), and Australia (2,603) also ranked among the top five.
With these figures, cumulative arrivals for 2025 have reached 1,618,769 — a significant rebound compared to the pandemic-era slump that crippled the sector. India leads overall arrivals this year with 339,895 visitors, followed by the UK (155,233) and Russia (119,132).
Tourism, which accounts for nearly 5% of Sri Lanka’s GDP, has been identified as a critical driver of foreign exchange earnings by the NPP administration. Since assuming office, the government has prioritized tourism revival through policy measures aimed at diversifying source markets, enhancing infrastructure, and improving safety and service standards.
The NPP has also accelerated visa facilitation reforms, including the planned introduction of a digital visa system to ease entry for tourists from Europe and East Asia. Discussions are underway to expand airline connectivity, particularly targeting China and the Middle East, to tap into high-spending segments.
Industry stakeholders have welcomed the renewed focus, noting that improved political stability and economic reforms have boosted confidence among foreign travelers and tour operators. Hoteliers in coastal regions, as well as cultural and eco-tourism operators, report stronger booking trends heading into the upcoming winter season, traditionally the peak period for arrivals.
Despite the recovery, the sector faces hurdles. Rising competition from regional destinations such as Thailand and Maldives, concerns over service quality, and inadequate infrastructure in key tourist hotspots remain pressing challenges. Industry experts stress that Sri Lanka must modernize its tourism offerings to retain its competitive edge.
The NPP government has pledged to address these issues by developing sustainable tourism projects and promoting lesser-known destinations beyond Colombo, Kandy, and Galle. Plans to highlight agro-tourism, wellness retreats, and community-based eco-lodges are already in motion.