By: Staff Writer

March 11, Colombo (LNW): On January 30, 2025, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) hosted a significant workshop focused on advancing renewable energy (RE) in Sri Lanka’s power sector.

The event brought together experts and officials from across the country’s energy landscape, including representatives from the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB), Lanka Electricity Company (LECO), Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL), Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority (SLSEA), and private sector developers.

The discussions centered around achieving the national goal of reaching 70% renewable energy for power generation by 2030, and a zero-emission energy economy by 2050.

The ADB experts expressed strong confidence in Sri Lanka’s ability to meet the 70% target, highlighting the country’s significant progress and the feasibility of this goal.

However, the state sector agencies, including the CEB, appeared more skeptical, even questioning the practicality of the national policy.

This contrast raises concerns about the lack of vision or possible internal challenges within the state agencies tasked with the country’s energy transition.

A key issue raised was the CEB’s view on the current state of Sri Lanka’s renewable energy capacity.

 Historically, the country depended almost entirely on hydropower for electricity, but this share has now dropped to around 50%, partly due to over-reliance on imported fossil fuels like oil and coal. Critics argue that this shift has placed unnecessary pressure on the country’s balance of payments and failed to explore more sustainable renewable sources such as mini-hydro and biomass.

 Despite the availability of abundant indigenous renewable resources, the CEB’s reluctance to embrace the transition to renewable energy remains a major concern.

On the other hand, the private sector, particularly small and medium-scale enterprises and rooftop solar developers, has shown notable progress.

Initiatives like the feed-in tariff for Non-Conventional Renewable Energy (NCRE) and the Surya Bala Sangramaya (SBS) program under the SLSEA have enabled rapid growth in the renewable energy sector. Solar photovoltaics (PV) have seen exponential growth, now contributing 25% of the current installed grid capacity and over 11% of the annual electricity demand.

 This demonstrates that with the right policies, Sri Lanka can close the gap in renewable energy generation, particularly during dry months when hydroelectric power production dips.

However, state sector representatives continue to argue that solar and wind energy’s variability poses a significant challenge.

The CEB chairman’s presentation highlighted concerns about the intermittency of solar power, referencing the Hambantota Solar Project. Yet, international experience and local research indicate that combining multiple renewable energy plants across diverse geographical locations can mitigate these issues, making renewables more reliable.

Moreover, the CEB has been slow to capitalize on proven technologies that could enhance the integration of renewables into the grid. For example, grid-scale battery storage, despite its current high costs, has become a viable solution in many parts of the world, including neighboring India. Yet, the CEB has not shown significant interest in exploring these options, hindering progress toward the 70% renewable energy target.

The Sri Lankan government must take a stronger stance, assigning clear responsibility for achieving the renewable energy goals and ensuring accountability. The lack of coordination and reluctance to adopt new technologies have delayed the realization of the country’s renewable energy potential.

It is time for the government and state agencies like the CEB to embrace renewable energy fully, for the benefit of the nation and its people. The private sector, consumers, and developers are ready to contribute without burdening the state budget, but the CEB must overcome its hesitation and adopt a forward-looking approach.

By: Staff Writer

March 11, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka is embracing digital transformation to rejuvenate its industries and drive economic growth. With advancements in technology, businesses across various sectors are adopting digital tools to enhance efficiency, improve productivity, and create new opportunities.

The government and private sector are working together to integrate smart solutions, ensuring a competitive edge in the global market. This shift towards digitization is expected to not only modernize industries but also create employment and attract foreign investment.

In recent years, Sri Lanka has taken significant steps to strengthen its industrial sector. With a focus on sustainability and innovation, businesses are adopting modern technologies and streamlined processes to enhance efficiency.

The government has also implemented policies aimed at improving infrastructure, reducing regulatory hurdles, and promoting foreign direct investment.

The government called on the industrialists to embrace digital supply networks under a unified industrial strategy or risk being left behind in an increasingly interconnected global economy.

Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Deputy Minister Chathuranga Abeysinghe asserted that the traditional linear supply chain model—raw materials, transportation, manufacturing and distribution—is no longer viable in a world dominated by digital supply networks.

“The world has moved on. Supply chains are no longer linear; they are interconnected ecosystems driven by data,” he said.

He made these comments while addressing the TWENTY 30 and BEYOND forum and award ceremony, organised by COYLE in Colombo last week. The event celebrated Sri Lanka’s entrepreneurial excellence, bringing together industry leaders and entrepreneurs to discuss the future of the country’s industrial landscape.

Abeysinghe highlighted how modern supply chains operate on real-time data, with demand signals sent directly to farmers, suppliers and manufacturers. He argued that this transparency is dismantling inefficiencies and profit accumulations that have long plagued the traditional value chains.

A key factor in this revival is the emphasis on value addition. Instead of relying solely on raw material exports, industries are investing in processing and manufacturing to produce higher-value goods. This approach not only increases revenue but also creates job opportunities and strengthens the local economy.

Furthermore, strategic partnerships with international organizations and investors are playing a crucial role in advancing Sri Lanka’s industrial capabilities. Collaboration with global experts facilitates knowledge transfer and access to new markets, positioning the country as a competitive player in various industries.

 Despite these positive developments, challenges such as fluctuating global demand, environmental concerns, and economic uncertainties remain. However, with a strong commitment to modernization, innovation, and sustainable practices, Sri Lanka is well-positioned to overcome these obstacles and continue its industrial resurgence.

By: Staff Writer

March 11, Colombo (LNW): The tourism sector in Sri Lanka is experiencing a remarkable revival, with visitor numbers soaring compared to the previous year.

This resurgence presents an excellent opportunity for the nation’s economy, but it also poses significant challenges in maintaining steady growth and ensuring long-term sustainability.

Industry leaders emphasize that while the increase in tourist arrivals is promising, it is crucial to implement effective global promotional strategies to solidify Sri Lanka’s position as a top travel destination.

Without such targeted campaigns, sustaining the current momentum and attracting high-value tourists may prove difficult despite the financial gains seen so far.

Sri Lanka’s tourism industry is witnessing a substantial rise in visitor numbers, prompting experts to advocate for urgent international marketing campaigns. They assert that maintaining this growth is essential for achieving the government’s ambitious tourism goals.

While the government aims to welcome 3 million tourists in 2025 and generate an estimated US $5 billion in revenue—a notable 52.38% increase compared to 2024—industry professionals stress the importance of not merely focusing on visitor numbers but also fostering sustainable and value-driven tourism. T

he sector’s future success depends on a balanced approach that prioritizes quality over quantity.

In a significant milestone, Sri Lanka’s total tourist arrivals for the year have exceeded half a million, raising hopes for reaching the 3 million target by year’s end. As of now, the country has recorded 530,746 arrivals, reflecting a 15.1% year-on-year increase.

Notably, 37,786 visitors arrived in the same period, marking a 9.12% rise compared to the corresponding timeframe in 2024.

Projections for March suggest a goal of 302,803 arrivals, requiring an additional 265,107 visitors within the remaining 26 days.

However, the first two months of the year fell short of monthly targets despite the year-on-year growth. Meeting the overall 2025 target will necessitate consistent momentum, with 82.31% of the remaining arrivals needing to be secured over the next nine months.

Deputy Minister of Tourism Ruwan Ranasinghe expressed confidence in achieving the 3 million visitor target, highlighting that surpassing 500,000 arrivals early in the year has provided a strong foundation for continued growth.

 In a recent video message, he announced the introduction of new promotional strategies within the month to sustain and accelerate this momentum.

The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) has released the latest figures on tourist arrivals, showing India as the largest source market with 84,476 visitors, followed by Russia (70,159) and the UK (51,105). In March alone, Russia led with 5,768 arrivals, trailed by India (5,373) and the UK (3,847). Other key contributors include Germany, France, China, Australia, the Netherlands, Poland, and Bangladesh.

The sector has also seen a notable financial boost, with January 2025 generating $400.7 million in revenue, reflecting a 17.2% increase compared to the previous year.

To achieve the $5 billion revenue target in 2025, the government is prioritizing consistent growth through enhanced promotional campaigns and infrastructure improvements, ensuring Sri Lanka remains a sought-after travel destination for global tourists.

By: Staff Writer

March 11, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s gem industry is striving to achieve an ambitious export target of $2 billion by 2025, seeking international collaborations to boost exports, tourism, and digital trade.

In this effort, Israel has emerged as a key partner, offering opportunities for Sri Lankan gem traders to integrate into its well-established diamond industry.

However, while this partnership presents promising prospects, concerns over corruption within Sri Lanka’s National Gem and Jewellery Authority (NGJA) cast a shadow over the industry’s future.

Sri Lanka’s coloured gem sector, particularly known for its Ceylon sapphires in shades of teal, pink, and blue, is gaining global recognition.

 As part of its expansion strategy, local traders are being encouraged to explore new territories and markets.

However, amid these developments, Industries Ministry Secretary Thilaka Jayasundara has voiced strong criticism of the NGJA, claiming that the institution has done more harm than good.

During a Committee on Public Enterprises (CoPE) inquiry, Jayasundara openly denounced the NGJA as a “system of scams,” arguing that the industry would have thrived better without it.

Drawing a comparison with Sri Lanka’s apparel industry—its leading export sector—she noted that the absence of a flawed regulatory framework allowed that industry to flourish, unlike the gem trade, which remains mired in inefficiencies and corruption.

One of the major concerns raised during the inquiry was the role of the NGJA in enabling money laundering.

Officials claimed that systemic corruption within the authority has persisted for years, with over 7,000 licenses issued annually yet failing to generate sufficient revenue for the sector’s sustainability.

 Despite needing at least $2 billion in annual exports to break even, Sri Lanka’s total gem, diamond, and jewellery export revenue for 2024 was just $282.07 million—far below expectations.

The inquiry further revealed that NGJA officers frequently undervalue gems, reducing their reported worth from Rs. 600-700 million to a mere Rs. 1 million.

 This underreporting not only results in significant financial losses but also opens the door to widespread misuse of the industry. Calls for urgent reforms within the NGJA have intensified as a result.

Amidst this backdrop of controversy, Israel has extended an invitation to Sri Lankan gem and jewellery traders to collaborate with its diamond industry.

The Israel Diamond Exchange Ltd. President, Nissim Zuaretz, proposed this partnership during a meeting with Sri Lankan Ambassador to Israel, Nimal Bandara. The goal is to combine Sri Lanka’s expertise in gem cutting and jewellery production with Israel’s dominant position in the diamond trade to enhance global demand.

In response, Sri Lanka’s embassy in Tel Aviv has agreed to facilitate a visit for local gem and jewellery entrepreneurs to Israel.

This initiative, coordinated with the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) and international exporters, aims to explore new business opportunities.

During discussions, Sri Lanka’s historical contributions to the gem and jewellery industry were highlighted, along with potential future collaborations between the two nations.

Zuaretz also emphasized the vast international business network of the Israel Diamond Exchange and explained its global operations. Ambassador Bandara, in turn, requested Israel’s assistance in establishing a business centre within the Colombo Port City project to strengthen trade links with South and Southeast Asian markets.

While the partnership between Israel and Sri Lanka’s gem industry appears promising, the unresolved issues within the NGJA raise concerns about transparency and fair trade. The success of this collaboration will depend not only on external support but also on addressing the deep-seated corruption that continues to hinder Sri Lanka’s gemstone trade.

By: Staff Writer

March 11, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s public procurement framework based on guidelines issued in 2006/7 is undergoing a major transformation with further upgrading of e-procurement system currently in operation since 2019, public finance department sources said.

Although e- government procurement system is being operated, it has not yet fully digitised the current process vulnerable to malpractices because it is very difficult to monitor transactions, a high official of the finance ministry said.

.A seven member high official team visited Bangladesh this week to gain in-depth technical and practical knowledge on Bangladesh authority’s successful implementation of e-GP, he revealed.

Dohatec New Media is the lead consultant for the operation and management of the e-GP system, along with Beximco IT Division and GSS Infotech Ltd in Bangladesh.

The Sri Lankan Team has undergone comprehensive study on Data Center Management and e-GP System Security, new technology adoption in e-GP, e-GP System Operation and Management, and overview of e-GP in Bangladesh.

Dohatec New Media experts presented a detailed description on the practical aspects of e-GP to the Sri Lankan official team during their three day study tour of Bangladesh concluded on Wednesday 04.  .

 They also visited the local government engineering office to gain practical insights into e-GP implementation. The World Bank has been assisting Bangladesh in the implementation of the e-GP system.

The Sri Lankan team comprised officials from the e-GP Secretariat, the National Procurement Commission, the Department of Information Technology Management and the Department of Public Finance.

The Department of Public Finance has expedited the public procurement framework transformation process in view of the introducing of a new Public Procurement Law in December 2024.

A regulatory body will be established under the new law with necessary authority and competency for the modernisation of the legal framework, public finance department high official disclosed.

The country currently lacks a formal legislative basis for procurement. All government procurement are being carried out in accordance with Cabinet approved guidelines.

The Procurement Guidelines 2006, sets out various procurement methods, bidding procedures, and rules for awarding contracts.

The proposed law is aimed at enhancing the effectiveness, efficiency and transparency in the public procurement system he said.

This will be a fulfillment of International Monetary Fund conditions under its public reforms   and management of public resources.

The government authorities recognise that public procurement remains an area of governance weakness, with associated corruption vulnerabilities, despite attempts to improve its effectiveness.

The reports of the Finance Ministry, the Auditor-General’s Department, and the Department of Management of Audit have indicated procurement malpractices and corruption that have led to inefficiencies and waste of scarce state resources.

By: Staff Writer

March 11, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s aviation industry continues to break barriers with increasing female participation, as demonstrated by SriLankan Airlines’ recent milestone. In a remarkable display of skill and leadership, an all-female flight crew operated Flight UL 404 to Bangkok, highlighting the airline’s commitment to gender equality in aviation.

On March 8, in celebration of International Women’s Day, SriLankan Airlines operated Flight UL 404 from Colombo to Bangkok with an all-female crew, marking a significant achievement in the airline’s efforts to empower women in aviation.

The eight-member team, led by Captain Madini Wijesinghe, successfully flew 130 passengers from Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) to Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Thailand.

They then completed the return journey to Colombo on the same day, reinforcing the airline’s dedication to fostering female leadership in traditionally male-dominated roles.

This special flight was not only a tribute to International Women’s Day but also an affirmation of the professionalism and expertise of SriLankan Airlines’ female crew members.

The team’s presence in key operational roles—from the cockpit to the cabin—symbolized the airline’s steadfast commitment to promoting gender inclusivity and advancing female talent within the aviation sector.

Captain Wijesinghe, an experienced pilot with 17 years in the field, expressed her pride in leading an all-female crew. “It is an incredible honor to command this flight alongside such a skilled and dedicated team. This journey is a testament to the capabilities of women in aviation, and I hope it inspires more women to pursue careers in this field,” she stated.

Her colleague, First Officer Ayodya Ranasinghe, who has nine years of experience, echoed similar sentiments. While honored to be part of the flight, she emphasized that every flight presents unique challenges and experiences, irrespective of the occasion. “Each flight is different, whether in terms of aircraft, weather conditions, or crew dynamics. The job remains the same—ensuring a safe and efficient journey,” she noted.

Captain Wijesinghe’s journey with SriLankan Airlines began as a cadet pilot at the age of 21. Over the years, she has accumulated over 11,000 flying hours and was gradually promoted to First Officer before taking on the role of Captain. Reflecting on her career, she fondly recalled key milestones, including her first flight to Tiruchirappalli in 2009, her inaugural flight as Captain to the Gallan Islands, and a memorable flight with her pilot husband to the same destination two years ago.

SriLankan Airlines has long been at the forefront of championing gender equality in aviation, offering numerous opportunities for women to excel in various roles. The airline’s Manager of Corporate Communications, Deepal Perera, emphasized the significance of this flight. “Today’s achievement is a reflection of the talent, dedication, and strength of our female workforce. It is a proud moment for SriLankan Airlines and a powerful statement on gender equality in the aviation industry,” he said.

While International Women’s Day serves as a moment to highlight women’s contributions, many believe that recognition should extend beyond just a single day. Gender equality should be a continuous commitment, ensuring that women’s achievements and capabilities are celebrated daily. As Captain Wijesinghe aptly put it, “This job doesn’t recognize gender—it values skill, dedication, and responsibility.”

With initiatives like this, SriLankan Airlines continues to pave the way for women in aviation, proving that the sky is not the limit but just the beginning for aspiring female aviators.