Category: Economy and Markets
IMF Chief Warns Sri Lanka Against “Reform Fatigue,” Hails “Remarkable Progress” Post-Crisis
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) today lauded Sri Lanka’s “remarkable progress” in its economic recovery but issued a stark warning against abandoning crucial reforms. Speaking at a conference in Colombo, IMF First Deputy Managing Director Gita Gopinath emphasized that the island nation’s current path “this time must be different.” Gopinath highlighted significant strides since the […]
Sri Lanka records 4.8-pct GDP growth rate for 1Q 2025
Issuing a communiqué, on releasing National Accounts Estimates, the DCS states that the GDP growth rate for the first quarter of 2025 has been estimated as 4.8 percent of positive growth rate. Accordingly, the Gross Domestic Product for Sri Lanka for the first quarter of the year 2025 at constant price (2015) has increased up […]
CBSL Extends Relief Measures for Affected SMEs, Offers Further Concessions
The Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) has announced an extension of relief measures and additional concessions for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) that have been adversely affected in the recent past. This move aims to facilitate the sustainable revival of these businesses. Licensed commercial banks and licensed specialized banks have been advised by the […]
Colombo’s evolving retail landscape: A vision for Rajagiriya
In the last few decades, Colombo’s skyline has been steadily reshaped by the rise of shopping malls, architectural symbols of economic aspiration, and urban transformation. From the modest beginnings of Liberty Plaza in the 1980s to the ambitious scale of One Galle Face , Colombo City Center and Cinnamon Life, malls have become embedded in […]
CIC Holdings delivers resilient FY25 results with 9-pct topline growth
Agriculture-rich diversified conglomerate CIC Holdings PLC (CSE: CIC) recorded steady revenue growth during the year ended 31 March 2025 (FY25), navigating macroeconomic headwinds and intense competition. The Group posted consolidated revenue of Rs. 83.3 billion, reflecting a 9.0% year-on-year (YoY) growth, driven by broad-based momentum across its core businesses. Group gross profit rose to Rs. […]
Samsung Sri Lanka unveils One UI 8 beta program: Pioneering AI for new Galaxy foldables
Samsung Electronics has officially announced the launch of its One UI 8 Beta Program, marking the dawn of a new generation in mobile software intelligence. Sri Lankan users can look forward to a revolutionary AI experience with the upcoming One UI 8, designed to redefine how Galaxy devices interact with their users. This first-generation upgrade […]
CDS and Sampath Bank sign MOU to Streamline Foreign Investor Onboarding through Digital Integration
The Central Depository Systems (Pvt) Limited (CDS), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Sampath Bank PLC to enhance the facilitation of Inward Investment Accounts (IIAs) for non-resident foreign individuals (FIs) in Sri Lanka. The CDS serves as the depository and custodian for securities traded […]
CAL Marks Key Milestone with Listing on the Colombo Stock Exchange
The shares of Capital Alliance Holdings Limited (CODE: CALH-N-0000) commenced trading on the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) on 30th May 2025. The shares are listed on the Main Board of the CSE under the ‘Diversified Financials’ sector. The occasion was marked with a special Bell Ringing Ceremony. The Company’s Offer for Subscription of 157,500,000 ordinary […]
Building dreams, driving change: BYD gains ground in Sri Lanka’s auto market
The world’s leading New Energy Vehicle (NEV) brand, BYD is making significant inroads in Sri Lanka’s automotive market just months after entering the country. Since the easing of import restrictions in early 2025, the brand has rapidly gained traction among Sri Lankan consumers, with growing demand for its electric and plug-in hybrid vehicle range. The […]
Sri Lanka’s liquid gold: The evolving story of pure Ceylon tea
The world recently celebrated International Tea Day on 21 May 2025 under the theme “Bringing people together over a cup of tea.” The day aims to raise awareness of tea’s long history and its deep cultural and economic significance worldwide, promoting collective action for sustainable production and consumption while highlighting tea’s fundamental role in uplifting […]
Discussion Focused on a Long-Term Industrial Development Strategy to Overcome Export Barriers
A discussion on the challenges facing Sri Lanka’s export industry was held this morning (28) at the Presidential Secretariat, under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Disanayake. The meeting brought together heads of institutions under the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, as well as officials from the Ministry of Finance and Planning. The discussion […]
Strong April 2025 performance of Sri Lanka’s Apparel sector; JAAF
Sri Lanka’s apparel industry recorded an encouraging 15.14% year-on-year growth in April 2025, reflecting a notable rebound in demand from major global markets. According to data released by the Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF), exports to the EU (excluding the UK) surged by an impressive 27.04%, while shipments to the USA and UK grew by […]