In response to mounting concerns and recent backlash surrounding the proposed Broadcasting Regulatory Commission bill, Sri Lanka’s Cabinet of Ministers has taken decisive steps to introduce new legislation aimed at regulating electronic media.

Cabinet Spokesperson and Minister Bandula Gunawardena addressed the media, revealing that following extensive discussions, the Cabinet approved a resolution directing the Legal Draftsman to craft a new bill based on the foundational draft for the establishment of the Broadcasting Regulatory Commission.

The Government Information Department highlighted that the primary objective behind this resolution is to ensure precise media practices within the electronic media landscape while safeguarding the fundamental rights of freedom of speech and expression.

During the Cabinet meeting held on 22nd September 2022, a Cabinet Sub-Committee, chaired by the Minister of Justice, Prison Affairs, and Constitutional Reforms, was appointed. This committee’s mandate was to provide recommendations on crucial policy matters for consideration in drafting the proposed bill. Subsequently, the committee formulated a foundational draft incorporating appropriate provisions for the envisaged broadcasting regulatory commission.

The Cabinet of Ministers, therefore, granted its approval for the resolution presented by the Minister of Mass Media, directing the Legal Draftsman to create a comprehensive draft bill based on the outlined foundational principles.

In response to the ongoing scarcity of sugar in the local market, the Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) has made a significant decision. CAA Chairman Shantha Niriella announced the removal of the maximum retail price (MRP) on sugar in a Gazette Extraordinary released on November 21.

This move comes as a reversal of the previous November 3, 2023 gazette notification that enforced price controls on sugar. The rescinding of this notification is effective immediately.

Under the previous communication, packed and unpackaged white sugar were capped at Rs. 295 and Rs. 275 per kilogram respectively. Additionally, packed and unpackaged brown sugar were mandated to be sold at Rs. 350 and Rs. 330 per kilogram respectively.

Before the imposition of price controls, the Finance Ministry had escalated the Special Commodity Levy on imported sugar from 25 cents to Rs. 50. Consequently, these actions led to a shortage of sugar in the market.

To address the scarcity, the government decided on November 20 to acquire sugar stocks imported under the previous levy of 25 cents per kilogram. These stocks will be made available to consumers through Lanka Sathosa, supermarkets, and cooperative outlets at a set price of Rs. 275 per kilogram within a month.

Trade Minister Nalin Fernando had previously indicated that once the government assumes control of the imported sugar stocks, the necessity for an MRP on sugar would diminish. This decision aligns with the government’s plan to subject future sugar imports to the special commodity levy of Rs. 50.

A further enhancement of the prevailing showery condition over the Island is expected today.

Showers or thundershowers will occur in most provinces of the island after 01.00 p.m.

Heavy showers about 100 mm are likely at some places in Central, Sabaragamuwa, Western, North-western, North-Central and Uva provinces.

Showers may occur at some places in Northern and Eastern provinces during the morning too.

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

Under the leadership of Sagala Ratnayaka, Senior Advisor to the President on National Security and Chief of Presidential Staff, a high-level meeting transpired at the Presidential Secretariat involving delegates from the Asian Development Bank (ADB).

The primary agenda revolved around Sri Lanka’s forthcoming water supply sector reform, set to be actualized with the financial support of the ADB. Deliberations predominantly focused on formulating a comprehensive policy framework and an efficient monitoring system crucial for the successful execution of the proposed reform program.

The core objectives of these reforms aim at elevating the administration of climate-resilient, safe, and environmentally sustainable water supply systems across the country.

In-depth discussions encompassed strategies geared towards reinforcing the policy architecture, highlighting governance, sustainability, efficiency, resilience, and capacity-building within water operations.

Crucially, it was emphasized that the collaborative execution of this pivotal initiative would involve concerted efforts from the Prime Minister’s Office, the Ministry of Water Supply, and the National Water Supply and Drainage Board.

The meeting witnessed the participation of Water Supply and Estate Infrastructure Development Minister Jeevan Thondaman, President’s Senior Adviser on Economic Affairs Dr. R.H.S. Samaratunga, Secretary of the Water Supply Ministry R.M.W.S. Samaradivakara, alongside ADB’s Country Director for Sri Lanka, Takafumi Kadono, and other notable representatives.

In a collaborative effort between Sri Lanka’s Embassy in Jakarta and the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB), a visit by influential Indonesian personality Michael Prayogo has been orchestrated to spotlight Sri Lanka as a top-notch destination for Indonesian tourists.

Prayogo’s ten-day itinerary is designed to immerse him in the diverse tapestry of Sri Lanka’s landscapes, encompassing visits to beaches, national parks, historical landmarks, cultural heritage sites, and culinary adventures.

Ahead of his Sri Lankan expedition, Prayogo paid a courtesy visit to Sri Lanka’s Embassy in Jakarta on Thursday (16). Ambassador Colombage conveyed his best wishes for Prayogo’s successful journey, recognizing the influencer’s potential to not only raise awareness among Indonesian travelers but also to ignite their curiosity in exploring Sri Lanka’s captivating destinations through engaging social media content.

Rohitha Bogollagama, the designated High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to the United Kingdom, arrived in London on Sunday (19) to officially begin his responsibilities. His arrival at London Heathrow Airport was marked by a reception led by Kathryn Colvin, the Special Representative of the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Affairs.

In collaboration with the European Union, the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) recently initiated a groundbreaking Farmer Field Schools Programme in Sri Lanka. This initiative targets 6,000 smallholder paddy farmers in key rice-growing districts—Ampara, Badulla, Hambantota, and Polonnaruwa—to impart sustainable paddy cultivation techniques.

The core focus of the programme is training these farmers in the Integrated Plant Nutrient Management (IPNM) approach, empowering them to optimize fertilizer, water, and other inputs in their cultivation practices. By embracing IPNM and adopting more efficient fertilizer usage, these farmers can reduce expenses, enhance productivity, and fortify their resilience against future challenges.

Traditionally, many Sri Lankan paddy farmers have relied on outdated methods, often overusing recommended fertilizers without understanding their fields’ specific nutrient requirements.

The Farmer Field School programme is designed to enable soil testing and promote judicious fertilizer utilization via IPNM strategies. It emphasizes soil management, composting, and biochar production. Additionally, the programme advocates for sound agronomic practices encompassing the use of high-quality seeds, proper land preparation, efficient water management, the parachute method for seed broadcasting, and effective pest, weed, and disease management—all integral facets of IPNM.

This comprehensive initiative operates under the ‘RiceUP’ project, an innovative FAO-led endeavor supported by a Euro four million EU fund. The project addresses Sri Lanka’s food security system vulnerability by safeguarding smallholder farmers’ livelihoods through the judicious use of fertilizers and the enhancement of quality paddy seed production.

The recent launch of Farmer Field Schools follows the training of 289 Agriculture Extension Officers in IPNM practices. These officers, equipped with essential skills and knowledge, will guide and collaborate with the selected farmers, tailoring exercises to suit local conditions.

Through the promotion of sustainable farming practices, such as efficient fertilizer usage and superior seed quality, RiceUP aims to elevate productivity, fortify food security, and bolster livelihoods within Sri Lanka’s paddy farming sector. FAO, in partnership with various stakeholders, remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring the long-term sustainability and resilience of Sri Lanka’s agriculture.

The Sri Lankan Rupee showcased remarkable steadiness against the US Dollar in commercial banks across Sri Lanka as of November 21, maintaining similar levels to the previous day.

Peoples Bank reported no change in its US Dollar exchange rates, with the buying rate at Rs. 321.92 and the selling rate at Rs. 333.14. Meanwhile, Commercial Bank observed a slight increase in its rates, with the buying rate rising from Rs. 320.99 to Rs. 321.85 and the selling rate marginally up from Rs. 332 to Rs. 332.10.

Sampath Bank’s rates remained constant, with the buying and selling prices at Rs. 323 and Rs. 333, respectively.

Fitch Ratings forecasts intensified competition for Lion Brewery (Ceylon) PLC, the dominant force in Sri Lanka’s beer market, following the acquisition of Heineken Lanka Limited by Distilleries Company of Sri Lanka PLC (DIST). Despite Heineken currently ranking second, DIST’s acquisition is expected to significantly enhance Heineken’s operations and challenge Lion Brewery’s market share. This expansion, projected to take two-to-three years with considerable investment, is seen as feasible given DIST’s robust financial standing and its status as the country’s leading spirits manufacturer.

However, Fitch notes challenges for DIST, particularly in brand building due to government restrictions on alcohol advertising. Lion Brewery, with its strong brand presence, affordable pricing, and local appeal, is well-positioned to maintain its market lead. DIST’s acquisition, though, is seen as a strategic move to consolidate its presence in both the hard and soft liquor sectors, potentially capitalizing on the shift from hard liquor to beer amidst rising excise duties and the resurgence of tourism in Sri Lanka.

Despite the undisclosed transaction value, Fitch believes this acquisition will not significantly impact the financial health of DIST or its parent company, Melstacorp PLC, which maintain strong balance-sheet positions.