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.
February 02, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka is set to fast-track the long-pending Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with Singapore, ensuring consistency in trade policy, according to Deputy Finance Minister Harshana Suriyapperuma. Speaking at a recent Committee on Public Finance (COPF) meeting, he confirmed the government’s commitment to fully implementing the agreement, which had faced multiple delays since its signing in 2018.
The Sri Lanka-Singapore Free Trade Agreement (SLSFTA) was signed at the ministerial level on January 23, 2018, and came into effect on May 1, 2018.
Covering a broad range of economic activities—including trade in goods and services, investments, intellectual property rights, telecommunications, e-commerce, trade facilitation, government procurement, and economic cooperation—the agreement aims to foster stronger trade relations between the two nations.
Initially, the FTA faced opposition and was temporarily suspended in October 2018 by former President Maithripala Sirisena due to concerns about inadequate consultation with key government agencies.
However, the current administration has reaffirmed its dedication to activating the agreement, which includes a phased elimination of tariffs on 80% of tariff lines over a 15-year period.
To facilitate the agreement’s implementation, a Gazette Notification (No. 2377/39) was presented to Parliament on January 7, 2025, under the Ports and Airports Development Levy (PAL) Act. This amendment, effective from March 29, 2024, reduces PAL from 10% to 6% on several imported goods from Singapore.
The tax reduction applies to items such as certain types of cement, apples, infant foods (excluding milk-based products approved by health
authorities), medicines, surgical instruments, and bathroom fittings. Additionally, import duties on goods like electrical equipment, polythene, and aluminum products were revised under the FTA, while items outside the agreement remain subject to previous tax rates.
A key aspect of the SLSFTA is its aim to establish a stable and predictable business environment for Singaporean investors while providing Sri Lanka with expanded trade and economic opportunities. The agreement mandates a gradual reduction of import duties and para-tariffs over five to six years.
In line with this, the Sri Lankan government has already lowered import duties on two categories of goods, aligning with the FTA’s tariff liberalization roadmap, impacting multiple taxes such as Customs Import Duty (CID), CESS tax, and PAL.
Despite initial resistance, COPF members eventually endorsed the PAL reduction, with Chairman Harsha de Silva underscoring the significance of fostering a free trade relationship with Singapore. He emphasized that the agreement aligns with Sri Lanka’s broader economic objectives and long-term growth strategy.
The implementation of the FTA had been delayed due to various factors, including the 2018 constitutional crisis, which led to its suspension by then-President Sirisena over concerns about insufficient consultation with key financial and port authorities.
However, officials reassured COPF that the revised order activating the agreement, which was approved by the Cabinet in 2018, now provides a well-defined framework for tariff reductions.
With its renewed focus on trade liberalization, Sri Lanka views the Singapore FTA as a crucial step toward fostering economic growth and strengthening international trade partnerships. The agreement marks a significant policy milestone, positioning Sri Lanka for enhanced global commerce and investment opportunities.
February 02, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s apparel sector showcased remarkable resilience and adaptability in 2024, with export earnings reaching approximately USD 4.7 billion—reflecting a 5% year-on-year growth. When factoring in direct textile exports, total earnings exceeded USD 5 billion. This steady progress underscores the industry’s potential for sustained expansion, supported by strategic policies and government backing.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the apparel industry remains competitive on a global scale. During the 42nd Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Sri Lanka Apparel Exporters Association (SLAEA), Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Minister Sunil Handunneththi pledged increased support for innovation, technical assistance, and regulatory reforms to help local manufacturers strengthen their market position.
Market Performance and Diversification
United States: Exports rose by 5.23% to USD 1.9 billion, though still 19.4% below 2019 levels, indicating room for further recovery.
United Kingdom: A robust 7.65% growth brought exports close to pre-pandemic figures, fueled by demand for ethically and sustainably produced garments.
European Union: A modest 0.81% increase helped maintain the sector’s market presence.
Emerging Markets: Exports surged by 10.13%, reflecting successful market diversification and direct shipping initiatives.
Key Government Interventions
To enhance global competitiveness, the government has prioritized improvements in supply chain efficiency and policy frameworks. A major development was the reactivation of the Export Development Council (EDCM) after a four-year hiatus. One of its key decisions was the introduction of an automated scanning system at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) to replace outdated manual inspections, reducing export delays.
Minister Handunneththi emphasized the need to overcome global supply chain disruptions, particularly in sourcing raw materials. He highlighted the government’s accelerated efforts to develop the Eravur Fabric Park, which aims to strengthen local textile production, reduce dependence on imports, and improve cost efficiency. The Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF) has reiterated the importance of localizing fabric manufacturing to boost competitiveness and align with global sustainability and traceability standards.
Challenges and Future Outlook
Despite 2024’s growth, export earnings remain 10.3% below the 2019 peak of USD 5.3 billion, with the industry facing headwinds such as global inflation and reduced consumer spending. The government recognizes that strategic investments and policy reforms will be crucial to regaining lost momentum and achieving future targets, including surpassing USD 6 billion in export revenue.
Handunneththi reaffirmed the apparel industry’s reputation as a global leader in ethical manufacturing, recalling Sri Lanka’s pioneering role in promoting fair labor practices and eco-friendly garment production through the ‘Garments Without Guilt’ initiative. Moving forward, he emphasized the need for continuous innovation, improved production processes, and alignment with international best practices to secure long-term, sustainable growth.
With strategic reforms and strengthened public-private collaboration, Sri Lanka’s apparel sector is well-positioned to navigate global challenges and solidify its standing as a key economic pillar.
