February 25, Colombo (LNW): The second reading of the 2025 Budget was successfully passed in Parliament today, receiving approval from a commanding majority of 109 votes. A total of 155 members voted in favour of the Budget, while 46 members opposed it.
A significant 24 members were absent during the crucial vote, which marks a key moment in the legislative process.
Interestingly, despite being part of the opposition, MP Selvam Adekaranathan cast his vote in support of the Budget, adding an unexpected twist to the proceedings.
February 25, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka must prioritize the further development of its manufacturing and services sectors to ensure long-term economic sustainability.
Strengthening these areas will not only boost the country’s economic resilience but also create employment opportunities and drive export growth.
A key focus should be on fostering innovation within the industrial sector, encouraging technology-driven advancements, and enhancing value addition across various industries.
To achieve this, Sri Lanka must implement policies that promote research and development (R&D), encourage investment in high-tech industries, and streamline regulatory frameworks to attract both local and foreign investors.
By fostering an ecosystem that supports innovation and industrial modernization, the country can enhance its competitiveness in global markets while ensuring a steady expansion of its economy.
The manufacturing sector started 2025 on a positive note, improving in January compared to December, according to the Sri Lanka Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI).
Compiled by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL), the PMI for Manufacturing recorded an index value of 59.0 in January 2025, indicating continued expansion.
All sub-indices contributed positively to this growth, reflecting broad-based improvements. This was an increase from the index value of 57.2 in December 2024.
Notably, the textile and apparel sector experienced favorable developments, leading to growth in new orders, production, employment, and stock of purchases.
Additionally, the food and beverage manufacturing sector remained positive even after the December festive season. The Suppliers’ Delivery Time sub-index also increased in January, aligning with the rise in overall activity levels.
Looking ahead, the CBSL anticipates that manufacturing activities will continue their positive trajectory over the next three months, supported by expected improvements in business conditions.
In contrast, the services sector exhibited a slower expansion in January 2025 compared to December. The PMI for Services recorded an index value of 58.5 in January, lower than December’s 71.1.
Despite this slowdown, several sectors showed notable improvements in business activity. The financial services sector, for instance, continued to grow, driven by increased lending activities.
Tourism also played a significant role in the services sector’s performance, with accommodation, food, and beverage services experiencing steady growth due to rising tourist arrivals. Furthermore, education, professional services, and transportation-related businesses recorded improvements.
New business activities expanded in January, particularly in financial services, transportation, and tourism-related sectors. Employment also increased as companies continued to recruit, while backlogs of work declined month-on-month after an increase in the previous month.
The CBSL remains optimistic about the services sector’s prospects, expecting further improvements over the next three months, driven by seasonal demand and favorable macroeconomic conditions.
By prioritizing innovation and modernization in both manufacturing and services, Sri Lanka can ensure sustained economic growth and enhanced global competitiveness.
The manufacturing sector has kicked off 2025 with an improvement in January as against December, whilst the services industry has lagged, as per the Sri Lanka Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI).
Its compiler, the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL), said the PMI for Manufacturing recorded an index value of 59.0 in January 2025, indicating a further expansion in manufacturing activities. All sub-indices contributed positively to this improvement. In December 2024, the index value was 57.2.reported favourable developments in January, driving expansions in the New Orders, Production, Employment, and Stock of Purchases sub-indices.
February 25, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s government has outlined an ambitious plan for the country’s tourism industry, targeting over 2.5 million visitors in 2025. With a budget allocation of Rs. 500 million, key focus areas include infrastructure development, promotional campaigns, and the adoption of a digital ticketing system to enhance the visitor experience.
To meet this ambitious goal, Sri Lanka needs to ensure a seamless and comfortable experience for both local and international tourists. Expanding tourism beyond well-known destinations is crucial.
To achieve this, the government aims to promote lesser-known historical and cultural sites such as Anuradhapura, Yapahuwa, and Jaffna. By branding these locations as unique travel destinations, authorities hope to encourage tourists to explore more diverse regions, thereby distributing the benefits of tourism across the country.
A significant step in modernizing the tourism sector is the introduction of digital travel tickets and entry passes. This shift is designed to simplify the tourist experience and streamline entry to attractions. However, challenges remain, as fraudulent activities and illegal profiteering have emerged within the system. While some offenders have been arrested, authorities need to take stricter measures to eliminate such practices entirely and ensure a secure and transparent system for travelers.
Despite these challenges, Sri Lanka’s tourism industry is experiencing strong momentum in 2025. In just the first 20 days of February, the country welcomed 175,436 tourists, marking a 15% increase compared to the same period in 2024. The year-to-date (YTD) total now stands at 428,197 arrivals, representing a 19% year-on-year (YoY) growth.
Breaking down February’s figures, the first week saw 61,667 arrivals, followed by 63,164 in the second week, and 50,605 tourists between February 15 and 20. To achieve the month’s target of 310,937 visitors, an additional 135,501 tourists need to arrive within the remaining eight days, requiring an average daily influx of 16,938 travelers.
Tourism data highlights a positive trend, with daily arrivals rising from an average of 7,644 in early February 2024 to 8,772 in the same period in 2025. This also represents an 8% month-on-month growth from January’s average of 8,153 daily arrivals.
India remains the top source market for Sri Lanka, with a YTD total of 68,668 visitors. Russia follows with 56,376 tourists, while the United Kingdom, Germany, and France contribute 40,515, 12,393, and 11,187 arrivals, respectively. In February alone, India sent 25,293 visitors, Russia 22,280, and the UK 18,785.
Industry experts remain optimistic about surpassing the 2.5 million target and potentially reaching 3 million visitors, generating over $5 billion in revenue for 2025. They attribute this confidence to ongoing strategic marketing, enhanced infrastructure, improved airline connectivity, and heightened safety measures.
In 2024, Sri Lanka recorded 2.05 million arrivals, generating over $3.2 billion in tourism revenue—a 52.38% YoY increase. To sustain this growth, the government must invest in promoting Sri Lanka as a premier travel destination while addressing grassroots-level challenges.
A well-implemented digital ticketing system can significantly enhance the efficiency and security of Sri Lanka’s tourism industry. By allowing visitors to book entry tickets in advance, the system can reduce waiting times, minimize overcrowding, and offer valuable insights into visitor patterns. These insights will help authorities plan infrastructure improvements, refine marketing strategies, and manage cultural and natural heritage sites more effectively.
While these initiatives mark a strong start, long-term success will depend on continued investment, strategic planning, and a firm crackdown on fraudulent activities within the industry. If Sri Lanka remains committed to enhancing its tourism sector, the country is well-positioned to achieve its ambitious 2025 targets and establish itself as a leading travel destination.
February 25, Colombo (LNW): The Employers’ Federation of Ceylon (EFC) continues to play a pivotal role in shaping a resilient and competitive private sector in Sri Lanka. Recognizing the evolving challenges businesses face in the current economic landscape, the EFC is committed to fostering sustainable and inclusive business practices.
Through its initiatives, the Federation aims to equip enterprises with the knowledge and strategies needed to thrive amidst turbulence while promoting long-term growth and stability.
A key initiative in this regard is the highly anticipated Employers’ Symposium 2025, scheduled for 28 February at the Monarch Imperial.
This annual event, a flagship gathering for EFC member companies and business stakeholders, will be held under the theme “Traversing Turbulence – Fuelling Enterprises for Success.”
Featuring esteemed speakers and industry experts, the symposium will delve into crucial issues impacting businesses, providing actionable insights for sustainable progress.
Joni Simpson, Country Director of the International Labour Organization (ILO) for Sri Lanka and the Maldives, underscores the need for businesses to be competitive, socially responsible, and adaptable to external challenges, such as climate change.
At the symposium, she will address the topic, “Responding to the Demographic and Social Environment by Building an Inclusive Workplace.” Simpson highlights that fostering workplace diversity is essential for business success, driving innovation, productivity, and employee retention.
According to her, inclusive policies contribute to economic growth, promote decent work, and uphold social justice by ensuring fair treatment, equal opportunities, and protection from discrimination.
The EFC’s role in championing inclusive workplaces is significant, Simpson notes, as it leads efforts in promoting responsible, sustainable, and equitable business practices.
She sees the symposium as an invaluable platform for companies to exchange ideas, learn from industry experts, and advance strategies for a stronger private sector.
Another key speaker, Nirmal Perera, Senior General Manager – Group ESG and Compliance at Brandix Apparel Ltd., will provide insights into the critical role of compliance in business stability and growth. Perera emphasizes that adherence to regulatory and social compliance requirements not only mitigates legal risks and operational disruptions but also enhances brand reputation, fosters customer trust, and ensures workplace safety.
Compliance, he asserts, aligns with sustainability goals, improves financial stability, and enables access to global markets.
Despite its benefits, compliance presents significant challenges, particularly for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Perera highlights issues such as rapidly evolving regulations, high compliance costs, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and the complexities of maintaining supply chain accountability.
He notes that adherence to compliance standards can serve as a safeguard during economic crises by ensuring business credibility, investor confidence, and workforce stability.
Initiatives like the EFC Symposium provide a much-needed platform for businesses to address these challenges. Perera acknowledges the event’s role in fostering meaningful discussions, offering strategic guidance, and advocating for policies that support sustainable business growth.
By facilitating collaboration among industry leaders, the symposium aims to equip enterprises with the tools necessary to navigate uncertainties and seize emerging opportunities.
February 25, Colombo (LNW): SLT-Mobitel, committed to providing superior value, reliability, and seamless connectivity across Sri Lanka, has introduced innovative Fibre Speed-Based Unlimited data packages.
Designed to cater to diverse user requirements, these packages offer internet speeds ranging from 100Mbps to 1000Mbps, ensuring uninterrupted browsing, streaming, video conferencing, and gaming experiences.
With the increasing demand for high-speed internet, SLT-Mobitel’s Speed-Based Unlimited packages set a new benchmark in Sri Lanka’s broadband market.
These plans cater to different usage patterns, ensuring smooth streaming, lag-free gaming, and seamless video calls. The company has also incorporated enhanced reliability, improved latency, and flexible data usage, allowing customers to work remotely, engage in e-learning, and enjoy high-definition entertainment without interruptions.
Additionally, the packages include value-added services such as parental controls, Wi-Fi optimisation, and bundled entertainment features, making them ideal for modern households.
Leveraging advanced fibre-optic technology, SLT-Mobitel delivers unparalleled speed, reliability, and performance. Users can enjoy buffer-free 4K streaming, uninterrupted cloud gaming, and crystal-clear video conferencing.
The superior signal strength of fibre ensures consistent performance even during peak usage hours, making it a preferred choice for multi-device households and heavy internet users.
These new packages are designed to provide extensive coverage for home broadband users, ensuring unimpeded access to entertainment, remote work, online learning, and gaming. Whether for professional use or leisure, SLT-Mobitel’s Fibre Speed-Based Unlimited packages provide a comprehensive digital solution tailored to meet modern connectivity needs.
Customers can conveniently upgrade their existing plans or subscribe to new ones via the user-friendly MySLT app or by visiting any SLT-Mobitel branch. New connections can also be requested through the company’s website at www.sltmobitel.lk. For additional details or assistance, customers can reach out to SLT-Mobitel’s 24/7 hotline at 1212.
SLT-Mobitel’s Progress in 2024
As part of its 2024 expansion strategy, SLT-Mobitel has significantly upgraded its network infrastructure, extending high-speed fibre connectivity to underserved regions across Sri Lanka.
The company has also introduced AI-driven network optimisation, enhancing speed and stability for a more efficient online experience. These advancements align with SLT-Mobitel’s mission to bridge the digital divide and support the country’s digital transformation.Additionally, SLT-Mobitel has expanded its 5G trials and introduced new smart home solutions, reinforcing its position as a leader in telecommunications.
With investments in cybersecurity, cloud services, and enterprise solutions, the company continues to empower businesses and individuals with cutting-edge digital innovations.
Through these initiatives, SLT-Mobitel remains at the forefront of Sri Lanka’s telecommunications sector, ensuring seamless connectivity for a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
February 25, Colombo (LNW): The Cabinet of Ministers has given its approval for the creation of a Gambling Regulation Authority, which will operate as an independent body with a comprehensive mandate to oversee and standardise gambling establishments.
The aim is to minimise social harm, foster the tourism industry, and stimulate economic growth.
Cabinet spokesperson Nalinda Jayatissa stated that the Legal Draftsman had informed the Cabinet that their agreement was necessary to proceed with drafting the relevant legislation.
Consequently, the Cabinet endorsed a resolution proposed by the President, in his role as the Minister of Finance, Plan Implementation, and Economic Development, granting policy approval for the immediate formulation of the draft bill.
February 25, Colombo (LNW): The Election Commission is set to meet this Thursday (27), with expectations that the date for the upcoming Local Government (LG) Elections will be finalised during the session.
A recent gazette notice from the Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils, and Local Government indicated that local government institutions are scheduled to convene for the first time on 2nd June 2025, following the elections.
According to sources within the Election Commission, the LG Elections are anticipated to be held either at the end of April or during the first week of May.
February 25, Colombo (LNW): A key meeting was held today (25) between President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and Dewi Gustina Tobing, the Indonesian Ambassador to Sri Lanka, at the Presidential Secretariat.
During the talks, Ambassador Tobing conveyed Indonesia’s warm wishes to the newly-formed Sri Lankan government and reaffirmed her country’s commitment to deepening the longstanding 70-year friendship between the two nations, according to the President’s Media Division (PMD).
Ambassador Tobing noted the recent parallel elections in both Sri Lanka and Indonesia, leading to the formation of new administrations.
She expressed Indonesia’s support for Sri Lanka’s “Clean Sri Lanka” programme, highlighting that a similar initiative is being implemented in Indonesia.
The discussion also covered opportunities to strengthen trade relations, with a focus on exploring potential free trade agreements between the two countries.
The PMD revealed that both sides expressed a shared interest in expanding market access in ways that would benefit both economies whilst further enhancing the cultural, social, and economic ties that bind the two nations.
The meeting was attended by Senior Additional Secretary to the President, Mr Roshan Gamage, and Indonesian Deputy Ambassador, Mr Fiki Oktanio.
February 25, Colombo (LNW): The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has voiced serious concern over a recent series of incidents involving the deaths of suspects in police custody and within courtrooms, describing these occurrences as a direct threat to the rule of law in the country.
In a statement issued today, the BASL emphasised the critical need for law enforcement agencies, including the police and prison authorities, to exercise the utmost caution and responsibility to prevent such incidents.
The Association warned that failing to do so would severely undermine public trust in the justice system.
The BASL lamented that similar cases of so-called ‘encounter killings’ have occurred in the past without adequate investigation or accountability, leaving the perpetrators unpunished.
The statement expressed concern that the apparent lack of action has fostered a climate of impunity, raising questions about the effectiveness of the justice system and diminishing the public’s confidence in its integrity.
The BASL stressed that extrajudicial killings cannot be justified as a solution to rising crime rates, highlighting that the best way to combat criminal activity is through strict adherence to the rule of law.
The Association called on the Acting Inspector General of Police to initiate a prompt and impartial investigation into the recent deaths of two individuals in police custody, urging for all necessary measures to be taken to prevent further incidents of custodial deaths or extrajudicial killings.
Such actions, according to the BASL, not only undermine justice but also contribute to a growing sense of injustice among the public, further eroding trust in the country’s legal system.
February 25, Colombo (LNW): Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya has been named the new chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on High Posts.
The announcement was made by Speaker Jagath Wickramaratne yesterday (24).
The High Posts Committee holds significant authority, particularly in approving the nominations put forward by the President and the government for key positions within the country.
This includes reviewing and approving the appointments of individuals to lead Sri Lankan diplomatic missions abroad.
The committee’s role also extends to assessing the qualifications and eligibility of those nominated for these high-level posts, ensuring that only suitable candidates are appointed to critical roles.
