The Impact of President Trump’s Policies on South Asia and Sri Lanka’s Economic Landscape
Introduction The tenure of President Donald J. Trump was marked by transformative policies that had profound effects globally. South Asia, a region of strategic economic and political importance, was significantly influenced by his administration’s foreign and economic policies. This article explores the impact of President Trump’s presidency on South Asia, with a special focus on […]
Sri Lanka Economic Association hosts expert panel to chart path from debt default to transformative growth
On January 16, 2025, the Sri Lanka Economic Association (SLEA), in collaboration with the globally recognized think tank ODI Global, spearheaded a pivotal discussion at the University of Colombo. The focus was the launch of a critical publication titled “Sri Lanka: From Debt Default to Transformative Growth.” This gathering of minds aimed to dissect and […]
Understanding the Complex Taxation Structure on Vehicle Imports in Sri Lanka
The taxation framework on vehicle imports in Sri Lanka has become a topic of significant concern for both consumers and industry players. The Vehicle Importers Association of Sri Lanka (VIASL) and the Vehicle Importers Association of Lanka (VIAL) have shed light on the multi-faceted nature of taxes imposed on imported vehicles, urging the Government to […]
Sri Lanka’s Path to Economic Resilience: CBSL’s Strategy for 2025 and Beyond
In recent announcements, the Governor of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL), Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe, outlined the crucial steps necessary for the nation to strengthen its economy and ensure sustainable growth (Economic Resilience). With a focus on innovation, productivity, and structural reforms, the CBSL’s Policy Agenda for 2025 aims to propel Sri Lanka towards […]
Sajith faults AKD Govt. for failing to reach new deal with IMF
Ineffective Government Actions On January 8, 2025, Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa expressed significant criticism towards the current government for failing to secure a new agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and for not delivering on key promises that affect the daily lives of Sri Lankans. During a parliamentary session, Premadasa highlighted the government’s inability […]
Sri Lanka’s Tourism Industry: A Strong Start to 2025
Sri Lanka’s tourism industry has witnessed a promising start in 2025, as evidenced by the notable increase in visitor arrivals. In just the first five days of January, the country welcomed 39,415 tourists, a substantial rise from the 32,453 visitors recorded during the same period in 2024. This boost is largely driven by a significant […]
Motor industry ‘cautiously optimistic’ as SL gears up to lift five-year vehicle import ban
The President of the Sri Lanka Business Council of Japan (SLBCJ), Jagath Ramanayake, recently highlighted uncertainties concerning Japanese banks’ ability to process letters of credit (LCs), which are crucial for facilitating vehicle imports(Motor Industry). During a media briefing, Ramanayake explained that international law ensures once an LC is opened, it cannot be cancelled, which typically […]
Food industry cries foul over new regulations
The introduction of stringent food labeling, advertising, and nutritional standards in Sri Lanka, effective 1 January 2025, has stirred up significant concerns within the local food and beverage (F&B) sector.(Food industry) These rules, intended to enhance consumer protection and promote healthier eating habits, have faced criticism for being unclear, costly, and impractical—especially for small and […]
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake Introduces New Economic Policy Framework
On January 2, 2025, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake announced a new economic policy framework aimed at addressing Sri Lanka’s ongoing economic challenges. This announcement was made during the launch of the ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ program, which the President highlighted as a key initiative for the year. The ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ Program: A Call for Active […]
Stock market ends 2024 with highest ever value of Rs. 5.69 trillion
The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) closed the year 2024 with its highest-ever market capitalization of Rs. 5.69 trillion, marking a remarkable performance in the stock market. This milestone provided long-term investors with an impressive 50% return, highlighting the market’s strong recovery and growth. Market Milestones and Growth The total market value surged by 34% compared […]