Sri Lanka ends five-year vehicle import ban sparking mixed concerns
Sri Lanka recently ended a stringent five-year ban on vehicle imports, a move that has elicited a blend of enthusiasm and concern across various sectors of the economy. This policy shift is anticipated to have profound implications on pricing, taxation, and the overall economic landscape. Economic Context and Government’s Decision For half a decade, Sri […]
Sri Lanka’s Export Earnings Reach New Heights in 2024
In a remarkable display of economic resilience and strategic execution, Sri Lanka’s export sector achieved an all-time high in 2024, with cumulative export earnings soaring to $16.17 billion. This historic milestone represents a 7.06% increase from the previous year, signaling a robust recovery and promising future for the nation’s economy. A Year of Unprecedented Growth […]
Sri Lanka Introduces Free Visa Entry to Boost Tourism
In a significant move to bolster tourism, Sri Lanka’s Tourism Minister, Vijitha Herath, has announced a progressive visa policy that will soon allow nationals from 39 countries to enter Sri Lanka without a visa. This strategic decision is expected to enhance the island’s appeal as a prime travel destination and stimulate economic growth through increased […]
SME Alliance Calls for Urgent Government Action to Support Sector’s Survival
In a critical plea for support, the SME Alliance has voiced strong concerns over the lack of effective aid provided to Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) amidst ongoing economic turmoil. Highlighting a series of unsuccessful governmental and financial policies, the alliance is urging immediate action to restore the sector’s viability and safeguard over 4.5 million […]
Colombo Port Expansion Project Advances with Major Consultancy Contract
Colombo, January 22, 2025 – In a significant move to bolster Sri Lanka’s maritime capabilities, the Cabinet of Ministers has officially approved a consultancy services contract valued at $4.2 million with Dohwa Engineering Co. Ltd. This decision is a key component of the ambitious Colombo Port Expansion Project, aimed at enhancing the port’s infrastructure and […]
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 […]
Economic Development Deputy Minister pledges solutions to PAYE tax concerns, professional exodus
On Thursday, 16 January 2025, the Deputy Minister of Economic Development, Prof. Anil Jayantha Fernando, reinforced the government’s commitment to resolving the growing concerns around the Pay As You Earn (PAYE) tax and the increasing exodus of skilled professionals from the country. During a pivotal meeting with the Professionals’ Trade Union Confederation at the Finance […]
Sri Lanka’s Tourism Revenue Hits Record High in 2024
In a remarkable display of resilience and growth, Sri Lanka’s tourism sector achieved a significant milestone in 2024, with earnings soaring to $3.2 billion(Tourism Revenue). This 52% increase compared to the previous year marks the fifth highest revenue ever recorded and the highest since 2019. The industry’s strong performance in December, where monthly earnings rose […]
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 […]
