October 18, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka is taking significant steps to promote sustainable consumption through the introduction of refillable systems. 

One notable initiative is being spearheaded by Unilever Sri Lanka in collaboration with Vega Innovations and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). 

Together, they are working to scale up the use of refillable stations across the country, aiming to provide consumers with affordable and eco-friendly alternatives while reducing plastic waste.

These refill stations are part of Vega Innovations’ UFill initiative, which enables consumers to refill Unilever products such as laundry liquids and shampoos, significantly reducing the need for single-use plastic packaging. 

By 2027, this initiative aims to prevent more than 128 metric tons of plastic waste from ending up in Sri Lanka’s landfills. 

Moreover, consumers can benefit from a 20-30% cost reduction by choosing to refill rather than purchasing new packaging. USAID’s Ocean Plastics Reduction Activity is lending its support through strategic and technical assistance to ensure the success of these efforts.

The partnership was formalized with a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed at Vega Innovations’ headquarters, marking a key milestone in Sri Lanka’s journey towards reducing plastic waste. 

This initiative builds upon the existing network of refill stations established by Unilever and Vega Innovations in places like the Colombo Fort Railway Station, Seva Vanitha Budget Centre, and various apartment complexes. There are plans to expand these stations further across the country.

This localized initiative aligns with Unilever’s broader objectives through the CIRCLE Alliance (Catalysing Inclusive, Resilient, and Circular Local Economies), a global collaboration launched by Unilever, USAID, and EY earlier this year.

The CIRCLE Alliance focuses on developing circular economies in countries like India, Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines, aiming to address plastic waste challenges globally.

Ali Tariq, Unilever Sri Lanka’s Chairman and CEO, emphasized the company’s commitment to reducing plastic pollution through innovative and sustainable solutions.

 He highlighted that their partnership with USAID and Vega Innovations allows Unilever to offer its popular brands like Dove, Lifebuoy, Sunsilk, Sunlight, and Vim to Sri Lankan consumers in a more convenient and sustainable manner.

Dr. Harsha Subasinghe, CEO of Vega Innovations, expressed pride in leading the charge to reduce plastic waste with the UFill initiative. He noted that, with the support of USAID, they can expand their network and offer consumers an environmentally friendly way to lower their plastic footprint.

Ann Bacon, USAID Sri Lanka’s Acting Deputy Mission Director, reiterated the U.S. government’s commitment to reducing plastic waste by supporting practical and scalable solutions. 

She noted that the partnership with Unilever and Vega Innovations is a testament to making sustainable consumption a reality in Sri Lanka.

October 18, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s peanut consumption is projected to increase by a modest 0.6% annually over the next five years, growing from 33 thousand metric tons in 2021 to 33 thousand metric tons in 2026. 

This follows a decline in demand of 1% since 2017. In 2021, Sri Lanka ranked 59th in global peanut consumption, with Gabon surpassing it at 32 thousand metric tons. India, Nigeria, and the United States ranked second, third, and fourth, respectively.

Peanut production in Sri Lanka is expected to reach 32,840 metric tons by 2026, up from 28,780 metric tons in 2021, with an average annual growth rate of 2.2%. 

Since 1966, production has steadily increased by 3.5% per year. In 2021, Sri Lanka was ranked 47th in peanut production, with Thailand taking the lead at 28,780 metric tons, followed by India, Nigeria, and the United States.

In a move to strengthen the country’s agro-economy, C. W. Mackie PLC signed a strategic partnership agreement with the Ministry of Agriculture and Plantation Industries, the Agricultural Sector Modernisation Project, and 2K Agro Products Limited. 

This project is supported by the European Union (EU) and aims to enhance peanut production in Sri Lanka, contributing significantly to the national agro-economy.

This collaboration marks a significant achievement in a journey that began in 2018, with C. W. Mackie PLC playing a crucial role in boosting domestic peanut production. 

The initiative aims to support import substitution while increasing export earnings and developing agricultural value chains that enhance the sustainability of farmer producer organizations, improve farmers’ livelihoods, and support the education of their children.

As part of this initiative, C. W. Mackie PLC has launched one of the most advanced snack processing facilities in Sri Lanka, creating new employment opportunities within the local community. 

This modern facility represents the company’s dedication to innovation and excellence in food production, with a focus on taking Sri Lankan agricultural produce to both domestic and international markets.

The strategic partnership between C. W. Mackie PLC, the Ministry of Agriculture and Plantation Industries, the Agricultural Sector Modernisation Project, and 2K Agro Limited aims to revolutionize jumbo peanut agriculture in Sri Lanka.

 This initiative lays the groundwork for sustainable practices and enhanced productivity, paving the way for a brighter future for farmers and the nation’s agro-economy.

October 18, Colombo (LNW): Former President and United National Party (UNP) leader Ranil Wickremesinghe underscored the importance of having an experienced team in Parliament to steer Sri Lanka through its ongoing economic challenges. Speaking about his past efforts with the last Parliament to prevent the country from plunging into bankruptcy, Wickremesinghe highlighted the need to focus on the implementation of the sustainability agreement, which could see key amendments proposed by the current President.

Wickremesinghe emphasized that Parliament holds the authority to execute these amendments and that it is the responsibility of the next Parliament to ensure the successful implementation of these crucial measures. He outlined several key economic targets for the country, including:

• Debt Repayment: Sri Lanka must begin repaying its debts starting in 2028.
• Government Revenue: By 2027, government revenue should reach 15% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), up from the current 12%, requiring an annual growth of 1%.
• GDP Recovery: The country’s GDP should recover to 2019 levels by the end of this year.
• Foreign Reserves: Foreign reserves should be increased to a range of $12-14 billion.

Wickremesinghe also emphasized the need for rapid development and the implementation of anti-corruption measures, reiterating that Parliament is responsible for achieving these goals. With no single party likely to secure a majority in the upcoming elections, he stressed the importance of learning from the previous Parliament, where no one took ownership of critical responsibilities.

He recalled how he had to unite members from various parties, including the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP), and the UNP, to form a government and work toward stabilizing the country’s economy. Wickremesinghe urged that such a situation should not be allowed to recur in the new Parliament, calling for stronger leadership and collaboration to avoid future crises.

October 18, Colombo (LNW): The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has completed a review of the Poverty Reduction and Growth Trust (PRGT) facilities and financing, a key initiative aimed at providing concessional financial support to low-income member countries.

IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva announced the adoption of a comprehensive reform and financing package, which will enhance the IMF’s ability to assist low-income nations. This newly approved package includes a framework to utilize IMF net income and reserves, generating approximately US$8 billion in additional subsidy resources for the PRGT over the next five years.

Combined with previous reforms and last year’s bilateral fundraising efforts, this initiative is set to more than double the IMF’s long-term annual lending capacity for low-income countries to US$3.6 billion, significantly exceeding pre-pandemic levels. This boost is expected to attract substantial additional flows from both public and private sources, strengthening the IMF’s capacity to support countries in need.

Georgieva emphasized the importance of this agreement in light of the unprecedented economic challenges facing low-income countries, as well as their substantial financing needs. The reform package aims to ensure that these countries continue to receive concessional resources, enabling them to implement sound economic policies and build resilient institutions.

The reforms include a new interest rate mechanism to maintain interest-free lending for the poorest nations while ensuring concessional terms for other low-income countries. The changes also offer flexibility in access policies, allowing the IMF to better tailor its support, while strengthening and streamlining safeguards to protect against potential risks.

October 18, Colombo (LNW): The Ministry of Health has confirmed the active deployment of mobile medical services in regions impacted by recent flooding. Secretary Palitha Mahipala stated that fumigation efforts are in progress to control the spread of dengue, reassuring the public that no epidemic outbreaks have been reported as a result of the floods.

In addition to controlling dengue, the Ministry has also implemented measures to prevent the spread of Leptospirosis (rat fever), addressing potential causes linked to the flooding. Mahipala emphasized that public health teams are on high alert to manage any health risks emerging from the disaster-affected areas.

1. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has made a decision to handover 500 houses constructed in Norochcholai in the Ampara district, to beneficiaries after a span of 14 years. This project was implemented to assist 500 families who were displaced and lost their homes as a result of the 2004 tsunami. This housing project, funded by the Saudi Arabian government in 2009, was yet to be handed over to the intended beneficiaries.
2. Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya engaged in discussions with several university student unions to address ongoing issues faced by students regarding their education and welfare. The meeting highlighted a range of unresolved challenges affecting university students.
3. India has completed 60 grant projects in Sri Lanka and implementing 16 more currently, the development coming more through investments and grants and relatively less through debt instruments, India’s envoy to Sri Lanka said. Santosh Jha, the High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka, also reaffirmed India’s support for island nation’s debt restructuring efforts, securing IMF support, and extending bilateral financial support to overcome immediate challenges.
4. The government has announced an increase in taxes on certain imported goods, effective from October 14 to December 31, 2024. This move comes under the directive of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who also serves as the Minister of Finance.
5. The Petroleum Trade Unions have criticized the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) for failing to implement the revision of electricity tariffs, which was supposed to take place on October 01, allegedly due to the irresponsible actions of the CEB.
6. The Election Commission of Sri Lanka has issued a circular stipulating the maximum spending limit allowed for each candidate for campaigning purposes during the 2024 General Election. Accordingly, the maximum expenditure limit allowed for candidates, parties, independent groups and national list candidates have been stipulated based on the district.
7. Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe addressed the critical issue of corruption during the CA Sri Lanka President’s Reflections program held in Colombo. He stressed the importance of amending several laws, including the Money Laundering Act and the Companies Act, to enable thorough investigations into corruption.
8. The government has spent only 53% of the welfare budget allocated for the year within the first 8 months up to August, according to a report. A latest report from the Ministry of Finance indicates that the welfare budget has primarily been used to fund the ‘Aswesuma’ welfare program. Meanwhile, the report also states that Sri Lanka is expected to receive 1.69 billion US dollars in loans from multilateral agencies within the next 3 to 5 years.
9. The Ministry of Health confirms that mobile medical services are actively operating in flood-affected areas. Secretary Palitha Mahipala said that fumigation efforts are underway to control dengue, and he reassured that no epidemic situations have been reported as a result of the flooding.
10. Sri Lanka thrashed West Indies by 9 wickets on Thursday (October 17) to take the series by 2-1. Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga chipped in with 2 wickets each to help the hosts restrict West Indies to 162 runs. In reply, both Kusal Mendis and Kusal Perera brought up magnificent fifties to take the series.

October 18, Colombo (LNW): The Meteorology Department has forecast several spells of showers in the Northern Province. Light showers are also expected in the Western, Sabaragamuwa, and North-Western provinces, as well as in Galle, Matara, Kandy, and Nuwara Eliya districts.

Additionally, showers or thundershowers may occur at a few locations in the Uva and Eastern provinces during the evening or night.

The public is advised to take precautions to minimize damages caused by temporary strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.

By: Isuru Parakrama

October 17, Colombo (LNW): Senior Presidential Advisor on Economic and Financial Affairs, Professor Anil Jayantha, has addressed recent reports concerning the government’s borrowing activities, clarifying that raising funds from the domestic financial market to cover expenses and repay maturing treasury bills and bonds is a standard procedure, not an extraordinary occurrence.

Speaking on the matter, Professor Jayantha emphasised that the government’s need to secure funds for essential services and operational costs is ongoing, facilitated through weekly treasury bill and bond sales conducted by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka.

“Each week, the Central Bank raises funds to meet the country’s financial needs, while also repaying those maturing on the due date. This is a regular, routine process that has been in place for years,” Jayantha explained, countering suggestions that recent fundraising efforts were linked to the appointment of the new President.

His remarks followed reports suggesting that the current administration has increased its borrowing from international markets.

However, the Senior Economist dismissed these claims, asserting that no additional borrowing had occurred and suggesting that media outlets reporting such activities were misinformed.

“What we are seeing is the usual process of collecting funds to support government functions. There has been no unusual or special borrowing from either domestic or international markets,” Jayantha said, adding that the media reports of new government loans should be investigated for accuracy.

He also touched upon the Central Bank’s efforts to stabilise the financial market, confirming that a recent purchase of US dollars had taken place to support this objective.

However, he clarified that this action occurred before the new President’s appointment, and remains a standard component of managing the nation’s financial stability.

Professor Jayantha’s comments aim to reassure the public and financial sectors that the current fundraising activities are part of established fiscal management practices, rather than a response to any sudden or pressing financial concern.

He further stressed that the government, through the Central Bank, continues to assess the domestic financial landscape to ensure that these processes remain effective and transparent.

By: Isuru Parakrama

October 17, Colombo (LNW): Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya convened a crucial meeting this (17) afternoon with representatives from several university student unions to address a series of pressing issues affecting students across the country.

The discussions focused on the educational and welfare challenges that have long plagued the university system, with a particular emphasis on unresolved concerns that continue to impact student life.

The meeting saw active participation from various student unions, including the prominent Inter University Students’ Federation (IUSF), which has been vocal in highlighting the difficulties faced by students in accessing quality education and ensuring their basic welfare needs are met.

Key issues discussed included inadequate facilities, the growing disparity in educational resources, and the need for enhanced student support services.

Prime Minister Amarasuriya acknowledged the depth of the concerns raised and reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing these challenges in a comprehensive and sustainable manner.

She underscored the importance of ensuring equal access to education and improving the overall university experience, both academically and in terms of student welfare.

In addition, the dialogue touched upon the importance of safeguarding academic freedoms and the need for better dialogue between university administrations and student bodies to foster a more harmonious educational environment.

By: Isuru Parakrama

October 17, Colombo (LNW): The Election Commission of Sri Lanka has introduced spending limits for candidates contesting the upcoming Parliamentary elections, establishing clear financial boundaries to ensure fair competition.

These regulations aim to control campaign expenditure and promote transparency in the electoral process.

Under the new guidelines, the allowable campaign spending for individual candidates ranges between Rs. 1.7 million and Rs. 5.7 million, depending on the district in which they are contesting.

Candidates running for a seat on the national list, however, face a significantly lower spending cap, with permissible amounts varying between Rs. 6,200 and Rs. 53,600.

Political parties and independent groups participating in the General Election have also been given specific financial limits.

The maximum expenditure permitted for such entities ranges from Rs. 9.9 million to Rs. 81.7 million, based on the size and scope of their campaigns.