Author: LBO
Uber and PickMe urge Government to allocate higher fuel quotas
The country’s leading app-based platforms, Uber and PickMe, have urged the government for support to keep Sri Lanka moving in light of the latest fuel constraints. Highlighting the critical role played by ride-hailing and delivery platforms in helping people access transport, food and essential services, the platforms have jointly asked for higher fuel quotas for […]
Sri Lanka and Brazil Successfully agree to elevate Bilateral Trade to USD 1 Billion
The Second Round of Bilateral Political Consultations between Sri Lanka and Brazil were held on 20th March, 2026 at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism in Colombo, marking an important step in further strengthening the longstanding and friendly relations between the two countries. The meeting was co-chaired by Secretary to the Ministry, Aruni […]
Oil Equilibrium: Why Global Energy Prices Could Redefine Sri Lanka’s Economic Future
By Dr. Gayan Gunewardana (MBA, CIMA/CGMA, FRM/ GAP, AIB) & Y.K Sajani Harishchandra (MBA, ACA) 1. Introduction: When Oil Moves, Economies Shift In the modern global economy, oil is more than a commodity; it is a macroeconomic force that shapes inflation, trade balances, fiscal stability, and the pace of global growth. For Sri Lanka, the […]
To reach US$8 billion, Sri Lanka apparel must grow differently
By Felix Fernando, Chairman, Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF) Sri Lanka’s apparel industry has earned its place in the global market through consistency, trust,and a strong reputation for ethical manufacturing. Over many years, we have shown that Sri Lanka can deliver quality, compliance, and reliability at a level that global brands value. That foundation remains […]
Import Price Shocks of the Hormuz Crisis 2026: How Will This Affect Sri Lanka?
Dr Asanka Wijesinghe, Research Fellow, Institute of Policy Studies of Sri Lanka The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has unsettled global energy markets. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), 20 Mn barrels of crude oil products were transported through the Strait in 2025, which accounted for a quarter of the world’s daily energy […]
VIDEO: Petrodollar Under Threat? Iran’s Petro-Yuan Oil Plan Via Hormuz | Explained
Iran may be considering a dramatic economic counterstrike in the escalating US-Iran conflict — targeting the very foundation of Washington’s global financial power: the petrodollar system. Reports suggest Tehran could allow oil tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz only if transactions are settled in Chinese yuan, a move that could challenge decades of […]
EDB Chairman Announces Fast-Track Fuel Supply for Exporters Amid Fuel Shortage
In a critical response to Sri Lanka’s escalating fuel shortages driven by Middle East tensions and QR rationing, Export Development Board (EDB) Chairman Mangala Wijesinghe has highlighted a priority program to ensure exporters receive their essential fuel stocks without delay. Treating the export sector as the nation’s top priority, this government-backed initiative aims to shield […]
Ceylon Chamber Urges Measures to Safeguard Economic Stability Amid Global Uncertainty
The evolving global situation and the escalating conflict in the Middle East requires coordinated measures to safeguard economic stability. The Ceylon Chamber remains ready to work with the Government in addressing potential economic risks and has outlined detailed policy recommendations. The Chamber, in its submission of 11 March 2026, recommended a number of policy measures […]
Sri Lanka advocates for immediate de-escalation of tensions in the Middle East and West Asia, and calls for global peace
Sri Lanka is deeply concerned by the rapidly escalating situation in the Middle East and West Asia, which poses a direct threat to the civilian population. We are saddened by the tragic loss of civilian life and condemn any attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure. Sri Lanka underscores that the protection of civilians on all […]
Sri Lanka and Indonesia Further Strengthen Defence Cooperation
On 12 March 2026, Ambassador-designate of Sri Lanka to Indonesia Sashikala Premawardhane paid a courtesy call on Secretary General of the Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Indonesia, Lieutenant General Tri Budi Utomo, and discussed avenues to further strengthen defence and security cooperation between Sri Lanka and Indonesia. The discussion focused on the early […]
Caltex Abimani strengthens the next generation of women in STEM
Chevron Lubricants Lanka PLC, in collaboration with the Ceylon German Technical Training Institute, proudly launched Caltex Abimani Women in STEM, a corporate social responsibility initiative designed to empower young Sri Lankan women pursuing education in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). The initiative highlights Chevron’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. The program supports deserving students […]
Protecting Public Interest: Why Mid Month Revisions & Targeted Welfare are Vital to Defeating Fuel Hoarding
Advocata’s opinion on recent fuel price hike We commend the Government’s decisive move to revise fuel prices mid-month without prior notice. This action protected consumers from artificial scarcity and market manipulation. By breaking the traditional end of month cycle, the Government removed incentives for hoarding by both consumers and retailers. Had the Government waited until […]