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Sri Lanka and Thailand to Sign Free Trade Agreement in February 2024
The 8th round of negotiations for the Sri Lanka-Thailand Free Trade Agreement (SLTFTA) concluded successfully on November 29th, paving the way for a historic deal to be signed in February 2024. The negotiations, co-chaired by the Chief Negotiators of both countries, Auramon Supthaweethum (Thailand) and K. J. Weerasinghe (Sri Lanka), saw both sides agree to […]
FAO Delivers Climate Resilient ‘Unsinkable’ Boats & Model Fish Display Stalls to Strengthen Fisheries Sector
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) handed over two specially designed climate resilient fishing boats and 30 modified fish display stalls to the Ministry of Fisheries, in line with FAO’s commitment to sustainable development and addressing climate change challenges. The SL20 and SL23 fishing boats, measuring 6.3 and 7 meters in […]
Public Investment for SDG Financing in Sri Lanka: Reality or Myth?
By Dr Lakmini Fernando Realising Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030 requires substantial investment allocation, especially for developing economies like Sri Lanka. A recent IPS study found that Sri Lanka needs an additional investment of USD 1.4 trillion or 12.5 percentage points of GDP by 2030 to achieve SDGs. Despite Budget 2024 allocating 5.4% of […]
‘s First Review under the EFF Arrangement for Sri Lanka
The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce appreciates the Board approval of the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) completion of its first review under the 48-month Extended Fund Facility (EFF) with Sri Lanka. This milestone, granting Sri Lanka access to approximately US$337 million, underscores the nation’s commitment to fulfilling key performance criteria and benchmarks. Notably, this includes the […]
Asia-Pacific Human Development Report calls for new directions to address rising inequality, climate change, and economic headwinds
The narrative of human development in Asia and the Pacific has been one marked by advancement, inequality, and unforeseen challenges. Against this backdrop, the launch of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)’s 2024 Asia-Pacific Human Development Report in November, represents a crucial step in revitalizing human development amidst a complex landscape of growth. Nationally, the […]
‘s build a new country together: Eran
Eran Wickramaratne MP alleged that foreign investors do not come to this country not because of the lack of tax incentives, but because the country’s laws are not properly implemented. He said that the fact that Sri Lanka is ranked 99th in the international index of ease of doing business and 164th in the enforcement […]
‘s VAT Hike and Economic Policies
Patali Champika Ranawaka, leader of the United Republic Front and Member of Parliament, denounced the government’s decision to raise Value Added Tax (VAT) from 15% to 18%. He accused the administration of misleading Parliament and forcing through the increase disregarding public opinion. “The government’s actions display a shocking lack of discipline and decency,” Ranawaka declared. […]
Suvasarya Pioneers Mixed Reality in Asian Ambulance Service with Pilot Projects in Colombo & Jaffna
Today marks a significant step forward for 1990 Suvasarya, as the ambulance service becomes the first in Asia to adopt mixed reality and AI technology for real-time doctor-paramedic communication. This innovative partnership with Wavenet and Microsoft marks a major advancement in emergency medical care for the region. Previously limited to phone calls, communication between paramedics […]
‘s Economic Program, Disburses USD337 Mn
While Sri Lanka received a crucial USD337 million disbursement from the IMF today, the country’s path towards full economic recovery remains dependent on immediate and decisive action. The IMF’s positive review of the first phase of the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) program acknowledges progress, but also emphasizes key areas requiring urgent attention. While the IMF’s […]
ComBank raises Rs 12 bn. as Debentures are snapped up on opening day
The Commercial Bank of Ceylon has raised Rs 12 billion in capital with its Debenture issue closing after over subscription on its opening day, Tuesday 12th December 2023. The Bank offered an initial issue of 60 million Basel III Compliant – Tier 2 Listed Rated Unsecured Subordinated Redeemable Debentures with a Non-Viability Conversion feature, at […]