- President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has directed the Ministry of Finance to implement measures to enhance the efficiency and resilience of Sri Lanka’s financial system. The President provided these instructions during a discussion with Finance Ministry officials at the Presidential Secretariat.
- The Excise Department secured a record revenue of over Rs.200 billion by November 30, the first time in its 120-year history that revenue exceeded this amount. Excise Department’s projected revenue for 2024 was Rs. 232 billion.
- Sri Lanka Customs said that as of 5.30 p.m. the private sector has imported 1,900 metric tonnes of rice from India since December 10, 2024. Meanwhile, the Essential Food Commodities Importers & Traders Association says that if the Customs Duty on imported rice is reduced by Rs. 15, it would be possible to sell rice at the maximum retail price.
- A donation of 55,000 metric tonnes of Muriate of Potash (MOP) fertilizer, also known as ‘Bandi Pohora,’ has been handed over to the Government of Sri Lanka under the World Food Programme (WFP). The event was attended by ministers, including the Minister of Agriculture, K.D. Lalkantha, the Russian Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Levan S. Dzhagaryan, and other officials.
- The All Share Price Index (ASPI) of the Colombo Stock Exchange recorded a new all-time high, surpassing the 14,000 points mark for the first time in history. Accordingly, the index has increased by 150.72 points (1.09%) to close at 14,035.81, a new all-time high.
- The Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) has finally announced the four names nominated to fill its remaining National List MP seats in Parliament. Accordingly, the main opposition party has named Mano Ganesan, Nizam Kariapper, Sujeewa Senasinghe and Mohamed Ismail for the remaining four National List MP posts.
- The United Arab Emirates (UAE) yesterday pledged its support to the Sri Lankan Government’s efforts to create a developed and prosperous nation. During a high-level meeting at the Presidential Secretariat UAE Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Khaled Nasser Al-Ameri, assured President Anura Kumara Dissanayake of the UAE’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.
- The Supreme Court has ruled that the arrest and detention of the former Governor of Western Province Azath Salley, under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) in 2021 was illegal. Accordingly, the Supreme Court also ordered the respondents to pay Rs. 75,000 as compensation to the plaintiff.
- Chairman of the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC), J.D. Rajakaruna, has refuted reports suggesting that a fuel shipment was turned away, threatening Sri Lanka’s fuel supply. Addressing a government media briefing Rajakaruna clarified that a United Petroleum shipment of 30,000 metric tonnes of fuel arrived in Sri Lanka on December 2 but left without offloading due to internal issues.
- An Indian national, who is the owner of the ‘Galle Marvels’ team in the Lanka T10 Super League, has been arrested by police over allegations of match-fixing. He has reportedly been arrested in Pallekele in Kandy for allegedly approaching a player to fix matches and is due to be produced before court tomorrow.
Sri Lanka Original Narrative Summary: 13/12
Prime Minister Calls for Data-Driven Education Reforms and Humane Public Service
Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya emphasized the need for evidence-based policymaking and a more empathetic public service approach during a workshop focused on education system reform, held at the Colombo Foundation Institute on Wednesday (11).
Speaking on the government’s vision for transforming education from early childhood development to higher education and vocational training, Dr. Amarasuriya underscored the importance of education as a tool for both individual and societal transformation.
“Education must go beyond acquiring knowledge to foster a sense of social responsibility and collective progress. It is a long-term investment, not a transactional commodity,” the Prime Minister stated. She called for a systemic shift from viewing education as a commodity to recognizing its broader societal value.
Dr. Amarasuriya also highlighted the necessity of basing educational policies on reliable data rather than personal opinions, calling for improved data collection and maintenance systems within the Ministry of Education.
The Prime Minister further criticized inefficiencies in public service, noting complaints from citizens about unresponsive officials. She urged officers to approach their duties with empathy, adding that public servants must work towards providing humane and efficient services.
The workshop, which aimed to align educational strategies with the new government’s policy goals, was attended by key stakeholders, including Education Deputy Minister Dr. Madura Seneviratne, Education Ministry Secretary Nalaka Kaluwewa, and other professionals.
This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to overhauling the education system to address contemporary challenges and promote sustainable development.
Excise Department Achieves Record Revenue Milestone of Rs. 200 Billion
The Excise Department of Sri Lanka has reached an unprecedented milestone in its 120-year history, recording revenue exceeding Rs. 200 billion by November 30, 2024. This achievement marks a historic first for the department, which had projected annual revenue of Rs. 232 billion for the year.
Key factors contributing to this remarkable success include:
- Increased Excise Duties on Alcohol: Adjustments to tax rates significantly boosted government revenue from alcohol production.
- Implementation of a Security Stamp Programme: The introduction of enhanced security stamps reduced counterfeit alcohol circulation and increased consumer reliance on government-approved products.
- Special Operations and Crackdowns: Targeted raids on illegal alcohol production and counterfeit security stamps further strengthened revenue streams by curbing illicit activities.
This achievement is particularly notable given the economic challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing national economic struggles. Despite limited human resources, the Excise Department’s strategic measures demonstrated resilience and efficiency, emphasizing its commitment to meeting and surpassing financial targets.
The department’s historic performance highlights the importance of innovative approaches and stringent enforcement in enhancing national revenue while maintaining market integrity.
UAE Pledges Support for Sri Lanka’s Development Efforts
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Sri Lanka’s development agenda during a high-level meeting held at the Presidential Secretariat yesterday (12). UAE Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Khaled Nasser Al-Ameri, assured President Anura Kumara Dissanayake of his nation’s dedication to strengthening bilateral relations and fostering economic collaboration.
Ambassador Al-Ameri highlighted the UAE’s plans to expand investments in Sri Lanka and share technical expertise, particularly in digitalization and modern technology. He underscored the significant role played by the 150,000 Sri Lankans employed in the UAE and expressed a commitment to creating additional employment opportunities for Sri Lankan workers in the UAE, further enhancing economic ties between the two nations.
The discussion also focused on diversifying and expanding Sri Lankan exports to the UAE, which is the island’s sixth-largest export market. Both parties emphasized the potential for mutual growth through increased trade and innovation.
As a gesture of goodwill, Ambassador Al-Ameri extended an official invitation to President Dissanayake to visit the UAE. The Ambassador reiterated the UAE’s unwavering support for Sri Lanka, assuring assistance whenever needed.
Minister Plenipotentiary Ahmad M.A.A. Al-Shehhi from the UAE Embassy in Colombo also attended the meeting. This engagement underscores the UAE’s role as a key partner in Sri Lanka’s journey towards becoming a developed and prosperous nation.
Russia Donates 55,000 MT of Potassium Chloride Fertilizer to Boost Sri Lanka’s Agriculture
ussAgriculture Minister Lal Kantha, expressing gratitude to the Russian Federation, announced the arrival of a consignment of 55,000 metric tons of Potassium Chloride fertilizer at Colombo Harbour yesterday. The shipment, granted as humanitarian aid, will be distributed promptly among Sri Lankan farmers to boost agricultural production.
Speaking at the handover event, Minister Lal Kantha emphasized the significance of the donation in aiding the country’s farmers during a critical time. Over 30,000 metric tons will be allocated to paddy farmers, while the remainder will be distributed to coconut cultivators.
“This fertilizer is an additional support to the fertilizer subsidy provided to farmers, and it comes at a crucial moment to bolster production. The Paddy Marketing Board will purchase a significant portion of the next season’s harvest, and we are preparing warehouse facilities to manage the stocks,” the Minister said.
He acknowledged the lack of government-owned paddy stocks and storage facilities upon assuming office. Plans are underway to use storage facilities from other government institutions and private companies, as well as to collaborate with small and medium-scale mill owners for drying harvested paddy.
Russian Ambassador Levan Dzhagaryan highlighted that this consignment is part of over 260,000 metric tons of fertilizers stranded at Riga port since 2022 due to Western sanctions. He commended the strong bilateral relations between Russia and Sri Lanka and reiterated Moscow’s commitment to providing humanitarian aid to its friends.
The Ambassador also expressed appreciation for the support from the Sri Lankan Government, UN agencies, including UN Resident Coordinator Marc-André Franche, and Uralchem Group of Russia for facilitating this initiative.
This fertilizer grant represents a significant boost for Sri Lankan farmers, ensuring improved agricultural output and strengthening ties between the two nations.
Showers expected to occur at times in Northern, North-central and North-western provinces
Showers or thundershowers will occur at times in Northern, North-central and North-western provinces.
Showers or thundershowers may occur at several places elsewhere during the evening or night. Fairly heavy showers about 75mm are likely at some places in Uva province and in Hambantota district.
Showers can occur at some places of the coastal areas in the Western province and in Galle and Matara districts in the morning too.
Misty conditions can be expected in Central, Sabaragamuwa, Southern and Uva provinces during the morning.
The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions minimize damages caused by temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.
Lanka Milk Foods Ambewela Farms sets Record in Daily Milk Production
By: Staff Writer
December 12, Colombo (LNW): Lanka Milk Foods (CWE) PLC (LMF) has achieved an extraordinary milestone at its Ambewela Farms, recording a daily milk production of 62,000 litres.
This marks a remarkable leap from the mere 3,000 litres per day produced when LMF took over the state-operated facility in 2001. Today, the farm contributes an impressive 20 million litres annually to Sri Lanka’s national milk supply.
LMF attributes this success to meticulous planning, significant investments, and innovative farming practices. A game-changing upgrade occurred in 2019 with the installation of automated dairy housing and milking systems.
Part of a Rs. 5 billion modernisation drive, these advancements doubled production capacity in just two years, elevating Ambewela Farms to world-class standards.
These systems incorporate everything from dairy cow comfort to computerised management, reflecting a commitment to excellence.
Ambewela’s achievements are also driven by advanced breeding programs that use sexed semen from globally acclaimed stud bulls to produce high-yielding, genetically superior cows.
These cows, capable of producing up to 12,000 litres over a 305-day lactation cycle, are comparable to the world’s best commercial herds. Rigorous health monitoring and disease prevention strategies ensure the herd’s productivity and longevity.
Nutrition plays a pivotal role in sustaining high yields. Under international nutritionists’ guidance, precision feeding systems and purpose-bred grass varieties provide optimal nutrition for the cows.
This meticulous care extends to calves, ensuring superior growth and early maturity, which boosts overall herd productivity. As a result, Ambewela cows now produce an average of 40 litres per cow daily.
General Manager Farms Sarath Bandara credited the achievement to blending international expertise with local knowledge and dedication. He stated,
“This milestone reflects years of hard work, strategic planning, and innovation. By combining global knowledge with local expertise, we’ve set a new benchmark for dairy production in Sri Lanka.
” He also reaffirmed LMF’s commitment to improving the dairy industry and supporting national self-sufficiency.
The ripple effects of Ambewela Farms’ advancements extend beyond its operations. LMF empowers local farmers by sharing high-quality offspring from its herds and promoting best practices, thus strengthening Sri Lanka’s dairy sector.
This collaborative approach embodies LMF’s belief in “winning together as a nation,” fostering continuous improvement and national progress.
This success story highlights Ambewela Farms as a model for sustainable, high-tech dairy production, setting a new standard for excellence in Sri Lanka’s dairy industry.
Sri Lanka, KOICA Partner for Waste Management and Governance Reforms
By: Staff Writer
December 12, Colombo (LNW): In a landmark initiative to promote environmental sustainability, the Government of Sri Lanka and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) have partnered to implement the “Developing Sustainable Integrated Solid Waste Management Project in Uva and Northern Provinces.”
The agreement was signed at the Ministry of Public Administration, Home Affairs, Provincial Councils, and Local Government (MoPCLG).
The ceremony was attended by KOICA Sri Lanka Office Country Director Kim Myung Jin, MoPCLG Secretary Alokabandara, Department of External Resources Director General Samantha Bandara, and other dignitaries. The project seeks to address solid waste management challenges in the Badulla and Vavuniya districts, with KOICA committing $11 million to the initiative.
This collaboration aims to enhance waste management infrastructure, introduce Korea’s best practices in the field, and strengthen the capacity of Sri Lankan officials. Speaking at the event, Alokabandara highlighted the importance of the initiative, noting that it could lead to long-term sustainable benefits, including a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and a shift toward eco-friendly waste management practices.
KOICA’s Country Director, Kim Myung Jin, emphasized the organization’s commitment to global environmental protection, expressing confidence that the project would pave the way for sustainable development in Sri Lanka’s waste management sector.
In addition to this project, KOICA plans to invest over $65 million in Sri Lanka over the next five years, focusing on climate change mitigation and adaptation technologies. This underscores KOICA’s dedication to supporting the country’s environmental and developmental goals.
KOICA has also pledged its support for governance and transparency reforms in Sri Lanka. During a recent meeting at the Presidential Secretariat, high-ranking KOICA officials assured their commitment to assisting the government in preventing fraud and corruption.
The agency agreed to provide tailored loan assistance to meet the country’s specific needs in strengthening accountability mechanisms.
Key officials, including Korean Ambassador Miyon Lee, Deputy Ambassador Songyi Jeong, and Sri Lanka Railways Deputy General Manager B.M.U Banneheka, were present at the discussions, reinforcing the strong bilateral ties between the two nations.
This multi-faceted collaboration between Sri Lanka and KOICA signals a significant step forward in addressing critical environmental and governance challenges while fostering long-term sustainable development.
European Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka Embarks on Strategic Growth under New Leadership
By: Staff Writer
December 12, Colombo (LNW): The European Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka (ECCSL) is entering an exciting new chapter, marked by its recent Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Colombo.
The event saw the appointment of John Wilson as President and Mario Stubbs as Vice President, ushering in a fresh leadership team to drive the Chamber’s efforts in strengthening European business ties with Sri Lanka.
In his inaugural address, President Wilson expressed gratitude for the members’ trust and outlined his vision for growth. “We are building momentum, focusing on strategic growth, and positioning ourselves to better serve our members. With your support, I am confident we will achieve great things,” he remarked.
Wilson acknowledged past challenges but emphasized the opportunities ahead for the ECCSL to enhance trade and investment relations between Europe and Sri Lanka.
To foster meaningful engagement, the Chamber plans to host networking events where members can exchange ideas and stay updated on global business trends. The continued publication of EuroLink, ECCSL’s trade and commerce magazine, will provide valuable insights into trade, investment, and business developments across Europe and Sri Lanka.
A key focus will be on regulatory updates, including the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), the Deforestation Regulation, the Critical Minerals Regulation, and the Textile Labelling Regulation. By collaborating with relevant organizations, ECCSL aims to keep its members informed and well-prepared for compliance with these critical European regulations.
Wilson highlighted plans to expand membership, drawing new participants from both Sri Lanka and Europe to ensure a vibrant and diverse network. The Chamber also aims to strengthen ties with European Business Councils, Embassy trade desks, and other trade organizations to support members’ cross-border business endeavors.
Advocacy will remain a priority as the Chamber represents the interests of European businesses in Sri Lanka. Whether addressing challenges or pushing for favorable policies, ECCSL is committed to being a strong voice for its members. Additionally, its enhanced digital presence will ensure clear and consistent communication through social media and digital platforms.
Special recognition was given to retiring Board members for their contributions, with Wilson thanking them for their service and welcoming them to the Advisory Board. Vice President Stubbs was also commended for his vision and leadership in shaping the Chamber’s future direction.
Looking ahead, the ECCSL is focused on building a stronger business ecosystem, promoting sustainable trade, and encouraging collaboration between European and Sri Lankan industries. “The challenges are significant, but the opportunities are greater. Together, we can create a more prosperous future,” Wilson concluded.
Historic Restoration unites Nations: Kandyan Kings Palace Reopens with US-Supported Renovation
By: Staff Writer
December 12, Colombo (LNW): The Old Kandyan Kings’ Palace and Archaeology Museum, nestled within Sri Lanka’s sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic complex, has been meticulously restored to its former grandeur through a $265,000 (Rs. 77 million) grant from the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP).
The U.S. Embassy, in collaboration with Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious, and Cultural Affairs, marked this achievement with a grand reopening ceremony on December 11.
The event was graced by U.S. Ambassador Julie Chung and Sri Lanka’s Cultural Minister, Hiniduma Sunil Senevi, who underscored the importance of the project in preserving the nation’s cultural identity.
The restoration, initiated in 2021, unfolded in two phases. The first focused on structural conservation and improving accessibility for individuals with disabilities. The second phase upgraded the museum’s exhibits and facilities, creating an engaging space for education and cultural appreciation.
Speaking at the ceremony, Ambassador Chung emphasized the transformative impact of cultural preservation, stating, “The restoration of the Kandyan Kings’ Palace and Archaeology Museum symbolizes the enduring partnership between the United States and Sri Lanka.
This museum serves as a gateway for all to delve into Sri Lanka’s rich history, fostering appreciation while boosting cultural tourism. We are proud to support initiatives that celebrate Sri Lanka’s heritage and enhance its cultural and economic vibrancy.”
Minister Senevi highlighted the collaborative effort’s significance, adding, “This project ensures that visitors, including those with disabilities, can access and connect with Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage.
By conserving the historic infrastructure and enhancing the museum’s displays, we safeguard our history while showcasing it to the world, promoting education and cultural pride.”
The U.S. Embassy’s Counselor for Public Affairs, Heidi Hattenbach, noted that the AFCP embodies the United States’ dedication to safeguarding global cultural treasures. She explained,
“The preservation of the Kandyan Kings’ Palace exemplifies our commitment to protecting Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage while fostering sustainable tourism and economic growth. This site now offers a deeper and more immersive experience for all visitors.”
Over its 23-year history, the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation has supported over 1,000 projects in more than 140 countries. In Sri Lanka alone, the AFCP has invested $1.3 million across 17 projects since 2001.
These initiatives range from conserving the Rajagala Buddhist forest monastery and preserving collections at the Anuradhapura Archaeological Museum to restoring the Batticaloa Dutch Fort.
Additionally, the fund is aiding the preservation of the Godawaya shipwreck, the oldest known vessel in the Asia-Pacific, located off Hambantota’s coast.
The restoration of the Kandyan Kings’ Palace not only preserves an iconic piece of Sri Lankan history but also reinforces the cultural bond between Sri Lanka and the United States, ensuring that future generations continue to learn from and appreciate this rich heritage.