Category: Economy and Markets
Sri Lanka’s Exports Surge to USD 5.5 Billion in First Four Months of 2025
Sri Lanka’s export sector demonstrated remarkable resilience and steady progress during the first four months of 2025, with total exports reaching US$ 5,583.25 Mn, marking a robust 6.9% increase compared to the same period in 2024. This upward trend reflects renewed momentum across key industries and underscores the sector’s adaptability in an evolving global trade […]
Sri Lankan Delegation to Engage in Tariff Talks in Washington
A Sri Lankan delegation is set to participate in discussions in Washington, D.C., focusing on tariff-related matters, following an invitation extended by the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR). This is the second in-person meeting aimed at ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral trade relations between the two nations. This initiative builds on several […]
‘s Electricity Reforms, Financing Assurances Review for Next Tranche
The much-anticipated approval of Sri Lanka’s Extended Fund Facility (EFF) program by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Executive Board is expected “in the coming weeks,” but its precise timing hinges on two key contingencies, according to Julie Kozack, Director of the IMF’s Communications Department. During a press briefing on May 22, 2025, Kozack addressed questions […]
Central Bank further reduces Overnight Policy Rate by 0.25-pct
The Monetary Policy Board decided to reduce the OPR by 25 bps to 7.75% at its meeting held yesterday, thereby easing monetary policy further. The Board arrived at this decision after carefully considering the developments both domestically and globally. The Board is of the view that this measured easing of monetary policy stance will support […]
Hemas Holdings PLC Appoints Ashish Chandra as Group Chief Executive Officer
Hemas Holdings PLC, announced the appointment of Ashish Chandra as its new Group Chief Executive Officer, effective 1st July 2025. This appointment marks a strategic inflection point for Hemas as the Group sharpens its focus on accelerating growth across larger emerging markets, expansion into adjacencies, and driving technology-led transformation to position the business for sustained success. A seasoned […]
”; Outlook Stable
Fitch Ratings has affirmed the National Long-Term Ratings of Sri Lanka-based conglomerate Melstacorp PLC and its subsidiary, Distilleries Company of Sri Lanka PLC (DIST), at ‘AAA(lka)’. The Outlook is Stable. The ratings on Melstacorp and its stronger subsidiary DIST are based on the consolidated credit profile of Melstacorp, in line with Fitch’s Parent and Subsidiary Linkage […]
Navigating Sri Lanka’s digital future: A conversation with Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya
By Ashanthi Ratnasingham Sri Lanka is entering a defining chapter in its digital journey—one that could reshape how citizens live, work, and connect. As global economies accelerate toward smarter governance, inclusive connectivity, and resilient digital infrastructure, Sri Lanka is laying the groundwork to leapfrog into a digitally empowered future. Leading this transformation is Dr. Hans […]
RIUNIT suburban real estate update: Rajagiriya
A residential oasis Rajagiriya, once a quiet Colombo suburb was initiallyflagged in the RIUNIT Real Estate Market report in 2014 as having one of the highest growth potentials amongst all the suburbs in the Western Province. Since then, the area has consolidated its position as a high-growth real estate hub, leveraging its strategic urban proximity […]
CSE and NCE Partner to Empower Sri Lankan Exporters
The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) and the National Chamber of Exporters of Sri Lanka (NCE) entered into a strategic partnership to support Sri Lankan exporters by enhancing their access to capital market opportunities and broadening visibility for their businesses. The partnership agreement was signed by Mr. Shiham Marikar, Secretary General / CEO, The National Chamber […]
IGT 1 officially on-boards at Business Centre at Port City Colombo
IGT 1 Outsourcing Lanka (Private) Ltd, hereafter referred to as ‘IGT 1 Lanka’, the subsidiary of IGT Holding I Sweden AB, and sister company of IFS Sri Lanka, recently signed an agreement to officially on-board as office tenant at the Business Centre at Port City Colombo. The leasing agreement was signed by Sal Laher, IGT […]
”; Outlook Stable
Fitch Ratings has affirmed the National Long-Term Rating on Sri Lankan consumer brands and healthcare company, Hemas Holdings PLC, at ‘AAA(lka)’ with a Stable Outlook. The rating underscores Hemas’ defensive operating cash flows, driven by its healthcare and consumer brands businesses, which contribute approximately 90% of the group’s EBIT. The Stable Outlook is supported by […]
Colombo Stock Exchange Introduces GSS+ Bonds to the Sri Lankan Capital Market
In line with a broader, more inclusive approach and in alignment with evolving global standards, the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) is pleased to announce the launch of the GSS+ Bonds Regulatory Framework, effective March 2025. This marks the first comprehensive regulatory framework in Sri Lanka dedicated to thematic bonds. Under this initiative, the term “Sustainability […]