Exporting Trouble: How US-Led Tariffs Are Squeezing Sri Lanka’s Export Economy

In recent years, global trade has taken some unexpected turns. The rise of protectionist policies—especially tariffs imposed by the United States on various countries—has had ripple effects far beyond the initial targets(Exporting Trouble). While Sri Lanka hasn’t been directly caught in the crosshairs of every trade war, the indirect impact of US-led tariffs is starting […]

Brain Drain in Sri Lanka: Can the Nation Retain Its Talent?

ISB Exchange | Export Development | Sri Lanka Economy | Sri Lanka | Fiscal Stability | Economic Recovery | Debt Management | Brain Drain in Sri Lanka | Economic Fallout | Pass@Arunalu123 | Economic Downfall Middle East Crisis

Introduction In recent years, Sri Lanka has seen a significant rise in the migration of skilled professionals—an issue commonly referred to as “brain drain.” Doctors, engineers, IT professionals, academics, and even entrepreneurs are increasingly choosing to live and work abroad(Brain Drain in Sri Lanka). This growing trend poses a critical challenge to the nation’s economic […]

Beyond the IMF: Why Sri Lanka’s Future Depends on Deep Economic Reforms

IMF | 2025 Budget | Economic Reforms

​In a recent public lecture facilitated by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, Dr. Indrajit Coomaraswamy, former Governor of the Central Bank and a distinguished economist, emphasized that while the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) support is crucial, it is not a panacea for Sri Lanka’s economic challenges(Economic Reforms). He underscored the imperative need for comprehensive […]

The Rise of Digital Entrepreneurship and the Gig Economy in Sri Lanka

Digital Entrepreneurship

In the wake of Sri Lanka’s ongoing economic challenges, a silent revolution is taking place—one that’s reshaping how young Sri Lankans work, earn, and build their futures. This transformation is being driven by digital entrepreneurship and the growing gig economy, offering new pathways beyond the conventional 9-to-5. A Shift in Mindset: From Job Seekers to […]

Sri Lanka’s Economic Recovery: Are IMF Funds and Reforms Doing the job right?

Sri Lanka Reserves. Debt Restructuring | Economic Recovery | Digital Entrepreneurship | Economic Downfall

Three years after Sri Lanka’s economic collapse shook the nation—empty fuel pumps, darkened homes, and inflation that once hit 69.8%—the island is clawing its way back(Economic Recovery). The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has been a lifeline, pumping $1.34 billion into the economy by March 2025 as part of its $2.9 billion Extended Fund Facility (EFF) […]

Challenges Facing Tax Policy in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka Economic | Tax Policy | Investor Confidence | Economic Outlook | Social Index

Despite reforms, Sri Lanka faces several ongoing tax challenges: Sri Lanka’s tax-to-GDP ratio hovers around 8% to 9%, one of the lowest in South Asia. This limits the government’s ability to fund infrastructure, education, healthcare, and social welfare programs. Many high-income earners and businesses underreport earnings. A lack of enforcement, coupled with loopholes in tax […]