August 23, Colombo (LNW): According to provisional data from Sri Lanka Customs, Sri Lanka’s merchandise exports in July 2024 reached US$ 1,087.6 million, marking a 6.58% increase compared to July 2023.

 This growth was primarily driven by higher earnings from Apparel & Textiles, Tea, Coconut-based products, Spices & Concentrates, and Seafood. On a month-to-month basis, export performance also saw a slight rise of 0.98% compared to June 2024.

The estimated value of services exports for July 2024 was US$ 293.26 million, reflecting a 16.44% increase compared to the same month in 2023. Consequently, total exports for July 2024, combining both merchandise and services, amounted to US$ 1,380.84 million, an 8.53% increase year-on-year.

In July 2024, Apparel & Textile exports rose by 3.8% year-on-year to US$ 443.74 million, with exports to the USA up by 5.37%. Tea exports, constituting 12% of merchandise exports, increased by 8.25% to US$ 124.7 million, bolstered by strong demand in markets like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Iran.

Coconut-based products saw a significant increase of 18.41% in export earnings, with all major categories such as Coconut kernel products, Coconut fiber products, and Coconut shell products showing substantial growth.

 Spices and Concentrates export earnings surged by 63.07% to US$ 61.2 million, largely due to a 127% increase in Pepper exports to India.

Seafood exports grew by 27.71% to US$ 22.03 million, driven by increases in frozen and fresh fish exports. Meanwhile, earnings from Ornamental fish exports also rose by 7.78% to US$ 1.94 million.

However, some sectors experienced declines. Export earnings from Rubber and Rubber products fell by 3.16%, while Electrical & Electronics Components saw a 5.83% drop in July 2024 compared to July 2023. Exports of Other Export crops and Flowers & Foliage also decreased significantly.

For the first seven months of 2024, cumulative merchandise exports increased by 4.94% to US$ 7,231.94 million compared to the same period in 2023. Services exports during this period are estimated to have grown by 9.52% to US$ 1,907.56 million. 

As a result, total exports for the January-July period of 2024 reached US$ 9,139.5 million, up by 5.86% from the previous year.

Among key products, Tea, Rubber products, Coconut products, and Food & Beverages all recorded growth in export earnings. Notably, ICT exports are expected to rise by 11.95% for the first seven months of 2024.

Conversely, Apparel & Textile exports declined by 1.17%, and Electrical and Electronic Components exports fell by 17.9% during the same period. 

Despite these declines, the USA remained Sri Lanka’s largest export market, with a 5.21% increase in exports in July 2024 compared to July 2023, and a 1.12% rise over the first seven months of 2024. Exports to the UK also showed growth during this period.

1. President Ranil Wickremesinghe today acknowledged that postponing the Local Government elections is a violation of citizens’ basic rights. However, he stated that he does not regret this decision, as the time was dedicated to ensuring the people’s right to live and maintaining their safety. Emphasizing his respect for both the right to vote and the right to live, the President also noted that every hour was crucial in the effort to stabilize the country’s economy.
2. The Presidential Candidate of Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) Namal Rajapaksa asserts that police and land powers will not be devolved to the Provincial Councils under his governance. Addressing his maiden rally in Anuradhapura, Rajapaksa stated that he believes their government was toppled by a conspiracy and that however, they did not let the state collapse.
3. The Chairman of the expert committee on public service salary disparities, Mr. Udaya Seneviratna, announced that the Cabinet has approved a basic salary increase for all public servants from January 2025. He stated that the salary increase ranges from 24% for lower grades and 24% to 50%+ for higher positions, based on qualifications, experience, and current roles
4. In the latest update from the National Election Commission, 771 complaints have been lodged concerning the ongoing presidential election. Within the past 24 hours alone, 54 complaints have been reported.
5. The merchandise export performance in July 2024 has amounted to USD 1,087.6 million, recording an increase of 6.58% compared to July 2023, according to the latest report from the Export Development Board (EDB).
6. Anura Kumara Dissanayake, the presidential candidate from the National People’s Power (NPP), issued a call for systemic change in Sri Lanka’s governance. Addressing the public, Dissanayake highlighted the long-standing issues that have plagued the country, emphasizing the need for a government that serves the people rather than the rulers.
7. The presidential candidate of the ‘Sarvajana Balaya’ alliance, entrepreneur Dilith Jayaweera has voiced his strong disapproval to the government’s plan to sell shares of Sri Lanka Telecom (SLT), calling it a ‘significant mistake’.
8. Cabinet approval has been granted to issue free tourist visas to visitors from 35 countries in an effort to boost the country’s tourism industry. Accordingly, tourists will be given 30-day visas under a six-month pilot programme that will start from October 1, Cabinet Spokesman and Transport, Highways and Mass Media Minister Dr. Bandula Gunawardhana said.
9. The Cabinet of Ministers has granted approval to initiate a pilot programme as an initiative to launch “Artificial Intelligence related Student Societies” in 100 schools.
10. Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) newly appointed president Faruque Ahmed reiterated his stance that Chandika Hathurusingha should not continue as head coach. Faruque Ahmed stated that he will make the final decision on Chandika Hathurusingha’s future after discussing it with his colleagues in the BCB.

August 23, Colombo (LNW): The Ministry of Health has intensified screening procedures at airports to detect any potential cases of Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, that may enter the country. Health Ministry Secretary Dr. Palitha Mahipala confirmed that the nation’s healthcare system is fully prepared to handle any incidents, with isolation and treatment facilities already established at the Institute of Infectious Diseases in Angoda.

Dr. Mahipala emphasized that the Colombo Medical Research Institute is equipped with laboratory facilities capable of detecting Mpox. During an expert committee meeting at the Health Ministry on Tuesday (20), comprehensive guidelines were issued to ensure better preparedness and response to prevent the spread of the disease. These instructions have been circulated to all healthcare institutions.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared Mpox a public health emergency of international concern following an outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which has now spread to at least 13 other African countries, with possible cases reported in Europe and Asia.

Mpox is a self-limiting viral infection caused by the Mpox virus. Common symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes, followed by pox-like rashes that typically last two to three weeks. While the disease is generally self-limiting, it can be fatal, particularly in children and individuals with weakened immune systems

August 23, Colombo (LNW): Several spells of light showers will occur in Western, Sabaragamuwa and North-western provinces and in Kandy, Nuwara-Eliya, Galle and Matara districts.

Showers or thundershowers will occur at a few places in Eastern and Uva Provinces and in Polonnaruwa district during the evening or night.

Fairly strong winds about (30-40) kmph can be expected at times over Western slopes of the central hills and in Northern, North-central and North-western provinces and in Hambantota district.

The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimize damages caused by temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.

By: Staff Writer

August 22, Colombo (LNW): The civil society is to play a critical role in driving the National Sustainable Infrastructure Plan (NSIP) for Sri Lanka Emeritus Professor Chitra Weddikkara, from the University of Moratuwa said.

The Alliance for Sustainable Infrastructure (ASI) Sri Lanka held its inaugural Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 17 August at the Hector Kobbekaduwa Agrarian Training and Research Institute (HARTI), Colombo.

The event was a significant milestone in Sri Lanka’s journey towards sustainable infrastructure development, bringing together key stakeholders from government, civil society, and the private sector.

The ceremonial session of the AGM commenced with the arrival of the special guest, US Embassy Economic Officer Bradley Gardner, and the keynote speaker, Emeritus Professor Chitra Weddikkara, from the University of Moratuwa.

The session was highlighted by a keynote address delivered by Professor Weddikkara, who emphasised the critical role of civil society in driving the National Sustainable Infrastructure Plan (NSIP) for Sri Lanka.

 Her speech underscored the importance of integrating sustainability into infrastructure planning and execution to promote long-term environmental health, economic vitality, and social equity.

Professor Weddikkara’s address highlighted key objectives of the NSIP, including sustainable development, resilience to climate change, inclusive growth, and economic efficiency.

She also discussed the significance of the NSIP in protecting Sri Lanka’s biodiversity, stimulating economic growth, and promoting social equity. The professor called for a collaborative approach involving government, civil society, and the private sector to ensure the successful implementation of the NSIP.

The AGM also featured addresses from ASI Convenor Samantha Abeywickrama, and COSMI – ASI Coordinating Body President Nawaz Rajabdeen who both echoed the need for sustainable infrastructure that benefits all segments of society.

Centre for International Private Enterprise (CIPE) Country Representative Sarrah Sammoon further elaborated on the role of international cooperation in achieving sustainable development goals. The vote of thanks was delivered by SOND Executive Director S. Senthurajah, an ASI member organisation, followed by lunch and networking opportunities for the attendees.

The 1st Annual General Meeting of ASI marks the beginning of a concerted effort to promote sustainable infrastructure in Sri Lanka.

The organisation aims to create a framework that not only meets current needs but also safeguards the aspirations of future generations. With the active participation of all stakeholders, ASI is poised to lead the way in building a sustainable future for the nation.

1. President Ranil Wickremesinghe receives the credentials of five new diplomats at a ceremony in Colombo: The newly appointed envoys include High Commissioners from Zambia and Bangladesh and Ambassadors from Lithuania, Vietnam, and Myanmar, underscoring Sri Lanka’s commitment to enhancing diplomatic relations with these countries, with discussions focusing on mutual cooperation and interests.
   
2. Opposition leader Sajith Premadasa vows to renegotiate Sri Lanka’s IMF deal if elected, critiquing its focus on debt sustainability over essential economic growth: argues the current 3.1% growth target by 2029 is insufficient, stressing the need for a more ambitious and inclusive economic strategy to drive long-term prosperity.
   
3. Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa asserts party members currently working with other factions will eventually need to rejoin the SLPP: criticises these individuals for supporting rival parties for personal gain rather than their own, underscoring the need for unity within the SLPP.
   
4. Sri Lanka’s dollar bonds have fallen below 55 cents due to uncertainty about debt restructuring and the upcoming presidential election: The bonds, down from 59 cents in June, reflect investor concerns over the restructuring plan, which requires IMF and creditor approvals: The political instability and restructuring delays have led to Sri Lanka being one of the worst-performing emerging markets this month.
   
5. The Cabinet approves six companies to operate tourist service counters at Bandaranaike International Airport’s entrance lobby, enhancing services for international travellers: Following evaluations, successful bidders include Airport Tourist Drivers Association and Ayubowan Tours: The counters, operational for three years, support the government’s push to boost tourism by improving infrastructure and streamlining visitor services.
   
6. Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice Jayantha Jayasuriya, orders the Election Commission to conduct the long-overdue Local Government elections, initially scheduled for 9 March last year: The ruling, which followed petitions from various political and civic groups, deems the delay a violation of citizens’ Fundamental Rights, urging swift action to uphold democratic processes: These petitions were filed by SJB General Secretary Ranjith Madduma Bandara, NPP MP Harini Amarasuriya, the Centre for Policy Alternatives, and PAFFREL.
   
7. A UN report highlights rising threats to fundamental freedoms in Sri Lanka due to regressive laws, weakened democratic safeguards, and ongoing intimidation of civil society: criticises the use of the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) and calls for accountability, economic fairness, and reconciliation ahead of upcoming elections, urging international measures if domestic reforms falter.
   
8. The Postal Department designates 8th September as a special day for distributing polling cards for the 2024 Presidential Election: Despite being a public holiday, cards will be delivered from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.: Distribution ends on 14th September, after which voters can collect cards from post offices: This ensures timely card delivery for voter participation.
   
9. The Maligakanda Magistrate’s Court has issued a restraining order preventing health sector trade unions and the Inter-University Students’ Federation (IUSF) from holding protest marches or entering the Health Ministry premises today: Effective from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., the order aims to prevent disruptions and public inconvenience amidst ongoing protests for improved working conditions and educational reforms.
   
10. On the opening day of the first Test at Old Trafford, Manchester, Sri Lanka posted 236 in 74 overs, thanks to resilient half-centuries from skipper Dhananjaya de Silva (74) and debutant Milan Ratnayake (72): Despite an early collapse to 113 for 7, their partnership helped stabilise the innings: England’s bowlers, led by Chris Woakes and Shoaib Bashir, dominated early, but play was curtailed early due to bad light, with England at 22 for no loss.

August 22, Colombo (LNW): A new report by the UN Human Rights Office has raised concerns about increasing threats to fundamental freedoms in Sri Lanka, citing regressive laws, weakened democratic safeguards, and continued intimidation against civil society and journalists.

Released on 22nd August, the report also highlights recurring human rights violations, echoing unresolved issues from the past.

As Sri Lanka prepares for its upcoming presidential and parliamentary elections, UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk emphasised the need for the government to recommit to the transformative changes demanded by its citizens, particularly in areas of accountability and reconciliation.

The report warns of recent legislative changes that empower security forces and further restrict freedoms of expression, opinion, and association, a troubling trend during this critical pre-election period.

Despite a promised moratorium, the controversial Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) continues to be used for arbitrary arrests, detentions, and reports of torture, according to the findings.

The ongoing impacts of the 2022 economic crisis, coupled with austerity measures, have disproportionately affected the most vulnerable, especially women.

Türk urged that economic policies be aligned with international human rights obligations and called for Sri Lanka’s creditors to allow fiscal flexibility to support social rights.

The report also underscores the enduring culture of impunity for crimes committed during and after the civil war, including the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks.

Türk urged the next government to address the root causes of conflict through substantial constitutional reforms and initiatives aimed at reconciliation.

Additionally, the report notes consistent harassment of journalists and civil society groups, particularly those involved in sensitive issues like enforced disappearances and land disputes.

Families seeking truth and justice for the disappeared continue to face threats, surveillance, and arrests.

In the absence of meaningful domestic accountability, the report calls on the international community to explore alternative strategies, such as targeted sanctions and the application of extraterritorial jurisdiction, to ensure justice for victims in Sri Lanka.