October 27, Colombo (LNW): In a significant step towards revitalising its tourism industry, the Hotels Association of Sri Lanka (THASL) has introduced an international digital campaign aimed at drawing more overseas visitors and promoting direct hotel reservations through modern online platforms.
Developed in partnership with leading digital agency eMarketingEye, the initiative seeks to strengthen Sri Lanka’s visibility across emerging markets such as Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Oman, Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand, with further countries expected to be added in due course.
The three-year project, backed by Nations Trust Bank (NTB) and American Express, is designed to appeal to high-spending travellers and promote tourism beyond the traditional peak seasons. Central to the effort is the “Truly Sri Lanka” website, which connects potential visitors directly with participating hotels, enabling them to browse exclusive offers and book stays without intermediaries — boosting both brand exposure and revenue for local establishments.
THASL President M. Shanthikumar noted that while the association continues to advocate for a comprehensive national marketing programme, it has chosen to act independently in the interim to target key source markets and attract premium visitors for long-term industry stability.
Rajitha Dahanayake, Founder and CEO of eMarketingEye, explained that the campaign focuses on regional markets within a four to five-hour flight range, noting their strong potential for sustained visitor traffic throughout the year.
Valued at around USD 50,000, the campaign’s first phase will run for three months and aims to position Sri Lanka as an appealing destination for year-round travel.
Sheahan Daniel, Executive Vice President of Consumer Banking at NTB, said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to advancing tourism as a national priority and enhancing Sri Lanka’s profile on the global stage.
Representing over 70 per cent of the country’s formal hotel workforce, THASL continues to influence policy and drive strategic growth across the hospitality sector. Despite steady increases in tourist arrivals by mid-2025, a fall in average visitor spending highlighted the need to attract higher-value travellers. Through this initiative, THASL hopes to secure more sustainable revenue for the industry while reinforcing tourism’s vital contribution to foreign exchange, public finances, and employment.
Sri Lanka Launches Global Drive to Boost Tourism and Direct Hotel Bookings
Cyclone Montha Set to Strike Andhra Coast with Gale-Force Winds
October 27, Colombo (LNW): Cyclone Montha, currently gathering strength over the southeast Bay of Bengal, is predicted to develop into a full-fledged cyclonic storm by later today.
Meteorologists anticipate it will hit the Andhra Pradesh coastline near Kakinada, between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam, tomorrow evening or night, bringing wind speeds of 90 to 100 kilometres per hour and gusts reaching up to 110 km/h.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings of heavy rainfall across several southern states, including Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, and Puducherry, over the coming days.
The weather system, which recently intensified into a deep depression, is forecast to strengthen further into a severe cyclonic storm within the next 24 hours.
Authorities have mobilised emergency and disaster response teams, placing additional units on alert for rapid deployment should conditions worsen. The IMD has also urged fishermen to avoid venturing into the sea along and off the coasts of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Puducherry, and Odisha between 26 and 29 October, as rough sea conditions and high winds are expected.
Sri Lanka’s Plantation Sector Poised for Revival Through Innovation and Value Addition
October 27, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s long-established plantation industry — centred on tea, rubber, and coconut — continues to underpin the national economy, offering a strong platform for renewed growth amid the government’s ongoing economic reform drive, according to Senior Economic Adviser Dr Arosha Fernando.
Speaking on the sector’s enduring importance, Dr Fernando noted that plantations remain one of Sri Lanka’s most resilient industries, employing more than half a million workers and sustaining thousands of rural families.
Recent data reveals that the country produced approximately 262 million kilogrammes of tea in 2024, generating export earnings in excess of USD 1.3 billion. However, the sector continues to grapple with challenges such as erratic weather, rising production costs, and volatile global commodity prices.
Tea production, for instance, recorded a 6.3% decline in June 2025 following prolonged heavy rains in several growing regions. Rubber exports have also been affected by global demand fluctuations and reduced tapping yields. Despite these setbacks, the plantation economy has shown encouraging signs of recovery, with export figures for tea, coconut, and related products rebounding in early 2025.
Dr Fernando emphasised that the future of Sri Lanka’s plantation industry depends on strategic modernisation and value addition rather than reliance on traditional commodity exports. “By investing in premium and niche categories such as organic teas, speciality blends, and sustainably branded Ceylon products, Sri Lanka can strengthen its global market presence and command higher returns,” he said.
Industry experts are also urging diversification beyond raw exports. Expanding downstream processing — such as converting coconut into value-added products like virgin oils and fibre-based materials, and developing high-end rubber goods for industrial and eco-friendly applications — could significantly enhance export competitiveness.
Beyond product innovation, Dr Fernando underscored the need for policy support in areas like climate-resilient cultivation, advanced mechanisation, and worker welfare. He further highlighted emerging opportunities in plantation-linked tourism and digital traceability systems, which can provide transparency to international buyers and strengthen Sri Lanka’s reputation for ethical and sustainable production.
Colombo Mayor Unveils Plans for Sustainable Waste Management Amid Rising Garbage Concerns
October 27, Colombo (LNW): The Colombo Municipal Council (CMC) has announced a renewed push to confront the mounting waste management crisis in the capital, with daily garbage output now reaching nearly 450 tonnes.
Colombo Mayor Vraie Cally Balthazaar has called for “innovative and sustainable” solutions to address what she described as one of the city’s most pressing environmental challenges.
In a recent statement, Mayor Balthazaar stressed the need to move beyond short-term fixes and invest in long-term waste management systems that are both efficient and environmentally responsible. At present, a majority of Colombo’s solid waste is transported to the Kerawalapitiya waste-to-energy facility—the only such plant currently operating in Sri Lanka.
However, the Mayor acknowledged that relying solely on this site is no longer sufficient to cope with the city’s growing waste volume.
The CMC, she said, is working closely with the Western Province Waste Management Authority (WMA) to develop a comprehensive strategy aimed at improving collection, recycling, and disposal processes. The goal is to create a cohesive framework that can serve not only Colombo but also neighbouring urban areas struggling with similar waste challenges.
As part of these efforts, CMC officials recently carried out field visits to the Karadiyana waste treatment facility and the Kerawalapitiya waste park. The visits were intended to review current operations, identify inefficiencies, and explore opportunities for collaboration with private-sector partners and local communities.
Reflecting on the inspections, Mayor Balthazaar described the experience as “eye-opening,” noting that it underscored the urgency of encouraging behavioural change among residents. She urged the public to take greater responsibility for reducing household waste, adopting recycling practices, and avoiding the overuse of plastics.
Main Suspect in Weligama PS Chairman’s Murder Transferred to FCID for Further Investigation
October 27, Colombo (LNW): The main suspect arrested in connection with the assassination of Weligama Pradeshiya Sabha Chairman, Lasantha Wickramasekara—popularly known as “Midigama Lasa”—has been handed over to the Financial Crimes Investigation Division (FCID) for further questioning.
Two other suspects, including a woman, have also been transferred to the division, police confirmed today (27).
The move marks the beginning of the next stage of investigations, which will now be conducted under the direct oversight of the Inspector General of Police (IGP). The FCID is expected to probe deeper into possible financial links, motives, and connections that may have led to the killing, which has shocked both the political and business communities in the Southern Province.
The suspects were initially taken into custody yesterday (26). Two men and a woman were apprehended in Kekirawa, while the alleged mastermind—who had reportedly fled the area following the attack—was later captured in Nawinna, Maharagama.
The arrest was the result of a joint operation involving the Police Special Task Force (STF), the State Intelligence Service (SIS), and local police units.
Wickramasekara, aged 38, was gunned down at his office in Weligama on October 22 by two assailants who entered the premises under the pretence of seeking his signature on a letter. He succumbed to his injuries while being treated at the Matara General Hospital. A pistol was used in the attack, according to forensic reports.
Police Headquarters has since confirmed that the suspected shooter responsible for the murder has also been arrested. The case is being handled by multiple divisions under the IGP’s supervision, including the Senior Deputy Inspectors General (DIGs) for the Southern and Western Provinces, the CID, the FCID, and the STF, with coordination across regional and intelligence units.
Over 780 Suspects Arrested in Nationwide Police Crackdown on Crime and Narcotics
October 27, Colombo (LNW): An extensive island-wide police operation carried out on yesterday (26) has led to the arrest of 781 individuals linked to a range of criminal, narcotics, and illicit liquor offences, according to the Police Media Division.
The large-scale operation, conducted simultaneously across all provinces, was part of an ongoing effort to curb rising criminal activity and strengthen public security.
Police officers inspected nearly 30,000 individuals during the coordinated raids, which targeted known hotspots and areas of concern identified through intelligence reports.
Out of those detained, 17 individuals were confirmed to have direct connections to organised criminal activity, while 485 suspects with outstanding warrants were also taken into custody.
Law enforcement teams additionally focused on traffic enforcement, resulting in the apprehension of 26 intoxicated drivers and 25 motorists charged with reckless driving. Another 4,306 individuals were cited for various traffic-related offences, including speeding, failure to wear helmets, and driving without valid documentation.
Government Imports Ponni Samba Rice to Ease Local Market Shortage
October 27, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka Customs has confirmed the arrival of 3,500 metric tonnes of Ponni Samba rice as part of a government initiative to address the current shortage of Keeri Samba rice in the domestic market.
The move comes amid rising consumer demand and limited local supply, which have contributed to fluctuating prices in recent weeks.
The first shipment of Ponni Samba rice reached the island on October 23, with additional consignments arriving on the following Friday and Saturday. According to Customs officials, the rice is now being cleared and distributed under the supervision of the Ministry of Trade and the Food Policy and Security Committee to ensure that supplies reach both wholesalers and retailers promptly.
The Cabinet of Ministers had earlier authorised the importation of GR-11 grade Ponni Samba from 15 October, following recommendations from food security experts who warned of an imminent shortage in premium rice varieties.
In an effort to expedite the process, the government temporarily lifted the requirement for import control licences, allowing importers to bring in consignments more efficiently. Each licensed importer was permitted to import up to 520 metric tonnes under the revised policy.
Officials from the Ministry of Agriculture noted that while local paddy cultivation has been affected by inconsistent rainfall and rising production costs, the government remains committed to maintaining stable food supplies and preventing market shortages. The current import measure, they said, is a short-term solution designed to stabilise consumer prices until the next harvest season.
Many districts to witness showers, thundershowers further: Public urged to exercise caution (Oct 27)
October 27, Colombo (LNW): Showers or thundershowers will occur at times in Northern, North-central, Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central and North-western provinces and in Galle and Matara districts, the Department of Meteorology said in its daily weather forecast today (27).
Strong winds of about (50-60) kmph can be expected at times over Western slopes of the central hills and in Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, Southern, Northern, North-central and North-western provinces and in Trincomalee and Batticaloa districts.
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:
The depression over southeast Bay of Bengal moved nearly west-northwestwards with a speed of 10 kmph during past 6 hours, intensified into a Deep Depression and lay centered at 05.30 a.m. yesterday (26), over the same region, near latitude 11.1°N & longitude 87.2°E, about 720 km north-east of Trincomalee.
It is likely to move nearly west-northwestwards, intensify further into a cyclonic storm over southwest & adjoining west-central Bay of Bengal during next 24 hours. Thereafter it is likely to move north-westwards and intensify into a severe cyclonic storm by October 28.
Continuing to move further north-northwestwards, it is very likely to cross Andhra Pradesh coast on October 28 as a severe cyclonic storm.
Naval and fishing communities are warned not to venture to the deep sea areas bounded by 05N-15N and 80E-95E, until further notice. Naval and fishing communities operating in those sea areas are advised to move away from the affected sea areas.
Naval and fishing communities are warned not to venture to the shallow sea areas off the coast extending from Kankasanthurai to Batticaloa via Trincomalee, until further notice.
Naval and fishing communities, engaging activities over the shallow sea areas off the coast extending from Galle to Pottuvil via Hambantota are requested to be vigilant in this regard.
The wind speed in the sea areas marked on the map below will increase to (55-65) kmph at times with heavy thundershowers and those sea areas will be rough or very rough at times.
Condition of Rain:
Showers or thundershowers will occur at several places in the sea areas off the coast extending from Trincomalee to Galle via Kankasanthurai, Mannar and Colombo.
Winds:
Winds will be westerly and speed will be (30-40) kmph. Wind speed can increase up to (50-60) kmph at times in the sea areas around the island.
State of Sea:
The sea areas around the island will be fairly rough and, rough at times.
Temporarily strong gusty winds and very rough seas can be expected during thundershowers.
Sri Lanka’s apparel sector grows amid policy uncertainty and global shifts
By: Staff Writer
October 26, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s apparel sector long regarded as the backbone of the country’s industrial exports—has shown renewed resilience in 2025 despite policy inconsistency and external challenges. According to the Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF), apparel exports for the first nine months of 2025 reached $3.8 billion, reflecting a 6.83% increase from the same period in 2024.
The industry recorded steady cumulative growth, driven mainly by improved performance in the European Union and other emerging markets, even as exports to traditional destinations like the United States and the United Kingdom declined. In September 2025, total apparel exports amounted to $403.01 million, up 1.58% year-on-year, with the EU market rising 10.75% and “other markets” growing 19.49%. However, exports to the US and UK fell by 4.71% and 15.06%, respectively.
While September figures dipped slightly from August, JAAF noted this seasonal trend is typical, reflecting shipment cycles linked to Western retail demand. Despite uneven month-to-month performance, the sector has retained its competitive edge, particularly through diversification, productivity improvements, and innovation.
Exports to the United States totaled $1.46 billion a modest 1.73% growth while the EU (excluding the UK) expanded strongly by 14.24% to $1.17 billion. Exports to the UK increased 2.31% to $533.7 million, while other destinations reached $630.3 million, marking a 10.45% rise.
JAAF said that while global demand remains fragile, Sri Lankan exporters have displayed “remarkable adaptability” through efficiency and ethical production standards. “The positive cumulative growth highlights the strength and competitiveness of Sri Lanka’s apparel sector even amid global headwinds,” the association stated.
However, JAAF also voiced concern over policy inconsistency and the slow pace of reforms that continue to hinder investor confidence and long-term planning. Industry stakeholders point to frequent changes in trade, tax, and customs policies, as well as a lack of clarity on energy pricing and export incentives, which complicate operational decisions for manufacturers.
Analysts note that while Sri Lanka’s apparel industry has transitioned from basic garment production to value-added, design-driven exports, sustaining momentum will require stable policies, logistics modernization, and stronger sustainability initiatives to meet global buyer expectations.
The sector, which directly employs over 350,000 workers and contributes nearly 6% of GDP, remains Sri Lanka’s top foreign exchange earner. Yet, competition from regional peers such as Bangladesh, Vietnam, and India continues to intensify.
JAAF reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the Government and stakeholders to enhance policy alignment, support small and medium manufacturers, and ensure Sri Lanka’s apparel industry remains a reliable, ethical, and future-ready sourcing destination in the global market.
Sampath Bank, NCE renew partnership to boost ethical exports
By: Staff Writer
October 26, Colombo (LNW): Sampath Bank has reaffirmed its strong commitment to Sri Lanka’s export sector by renewing its partnership with the National Chamber of Exporters (NCE) for 2025. The agreement, signed at the bank’s head office in Colombo, marks another milestone in a long-standing collaboration aimed at promoting ethical trade, sustainable practices, and global competitiveness among Sri Lankan exporters.
The renewal underscores Sampath Bank’s role as a key financial partner to the nation’s exporters at a time when the country seeks to strengthen export earnings and rebuild investor confidence. Through this partnership, the bank will continue to champion responsible trade and sustainable development across the export industry.
A major highlight of the agreement is Sampath Bank’s decision to sponsor 30 member companies to obtain the NCE’s Certificate of Ethical Trading (CET). The certification, unique to the NCE as the only Sri Lankan trade chamber authorised to issue it, serves as an internationally recognised benchmark for ethical and sustainable business operations.
The CET helps exporters demonstrate their adherence to fair labour practices, environmental stewardship, and sound corporate governance attributes increasingly demanded by global buyers. By supporting this initiative, Sampath Bank aims to help exporters enhance their brand credibility, access new markets, and gain a competitive advantage in the global marketplace.
Speaking at the signing, Sampath Bank PLC Assistant General Manager–International Banking, Halin Hettigoda, said, “Exporters continue to play a defining role in revitalising Sri Lanka’s economy. At Sampath Bank, we remain deeply committed to empowering them through responsible banking, ethical trade support, and financial innovation. Our ongoing partnership with the NCE reflects this shared vision to strengthen the export sector and build a more resilient and inclusive economy.”
The collaboration will also give Sampath Bank greater visibility through NCE’s high-profile trade seminars and policy discussions that bring together industry leaders, policymakers, and business owners. These platforms encourage dialogue, knowledge sharing, and innovation in the export sector.
In addition, the bank will participate in NCE’s Regional Exporters Delegation program, which facilitates engagement with regional producers and suppliers, promoting financial inclusion and regional trade development.
The year-long partnership will culminate in the prestigious 33rd NCE Export Awards, to be held on February 13, 2026, at the Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo. The event celebrates outstanding exporters who contribute significantly to national growth.
Through this renewed alliance, Sampath Bank continues to position itself as a catalyst for ethical trade and sustainable export growth reinforcing its long-term vision of empowering Sri Lankan businesses to thrive in an increasingly responsible global economy.