Category: Industry
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 […]
Banks to maintain uninterrupted services; SLBA urges public to use digital channels
The Sri Lanka Banks’ Association (SLBA) has assured the public that banks will continue to operate on all five weekdays as an essential service, despite the temporary measures introduced to conserve fuel and energy resources. Accordingly, banks will remain open from Monday to Friday, including Wednesdays, with operations on Wednesdays limited to the hours 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 […]
Sri Lanka Reintroduces Fuel Rationing via QR Amid Supply Disruptions
The Ministry of Energy has announced the immediate reintroduction of the National Fuel Pass (QR code) system, effective from 6:00 AM on March 15, 2026. The decision follows a surge in domestic demand and ongoing disruptions to Middle Eastern supply routes caused by regional conflict. Government officials stated the move is necessary to manage existing […]
PickMe calls for higher fuel allocations to ride-hailing and taxi services
PickMe has called for higher fuel allocations to ride-hailing and taxi services during rationing periods, arguing that shared mobility maximises scarce resources, sustains daily economic activity, and protects driver livelihoods. Sri Lanka faces renewed global uncertainty over energy supplies. While not a repeat of the recent fuel crisis, the situation highlights the need for efficient […]
A road map to net zero for Sri Lanka’s plantation sector
With the heighted consensus on the need for climate change mitigation and adaption, the SriLankan plantation industry is now faced with one of the most consequential transformations inits 172 year history as a growing segment of the industry plots a course for Net Zero emissions.With global buyers, financiers and regulators push for low-carbon supply chains, […]
AI-Related Risks Rising for Software, Media, and Services Corporates: Fitch Ratings
Elevated AI-driven credit risks are concentrated in three technology, media and telecommunications (TMT) sectors, with software, media and services facing rising disruption risk while overinvestment risk remains largely confined to hyperscalers and select cloud providers, according to a new Fitch Ratings report. Asset-light businesses where value is driven by intangibles such as software, IP, brands […]
Emirates Scales Back Operations Amid Partial Airspace Reopening
Dubai-based carrier Emirates has confirmed it is running a reduced flight schedule until further notice, following the partial reopening of regional airspace. The airline emphasized that safety remains its top priority as it gradually rebuilds operations. On March 5 and 6, more than 100 flights are scheduled to depart from and return to Dubai. These […]
CFA Society Sri Lanka and Frontier Research Announce “Economics in Practice” Learning Programme
CFA Society Sri Lanka, in collaboration with Frontier Research Pvt Ltd, has announced a half-day executive learning programme titled “Economics in Practice.” The programme will be held on Thursday, 12 March 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Courtyard by Marriott Colombo City Centre. The programme aims to help professionals understand economic developments […]
Sri Lanka ranks 20th globally for web-based cyber threats in 2025: Kaspersky
Sri Lanka continues to face significant cybersecurity challenges, with 30.4% of internet users experiencing web-borne cyberattacks in 2025, according to the latest Kaspersky Security Bulletin. The report places Sri Lanka in the 20th position globally when it comes to dangers associated with surfing the web. During the January-December 2025 period, Kaspersky products detected 9,153,362 different […]
HIP Expands RoRo Capacity with New Yard, Strengthening Position on East–West Trade Lane
Hambantota International Port (HIP) has commissioned a new six-hectare Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) yard as part of Stage I of Phase II of its RoRo yard expansion programme, marking a significant step in the port’s long-term automotive transhipment strategy. The newly completed yard increases vehicle parking capacity to 4,500 units per terminal space, easing pressure on existing […]
Fitch Publishes ‘AAA(lka)’ Rating on Hayleys’ Proposed Debentures
Fitch Ratings has published the National Long-Term Rating of ‘AAA(lka)’ assigned to Hayleys PLC’s proposed unsecured senior redeemable debentures of up to LKR7 billion. The debentures are rated in line with Hayleys’ National Long-Term Rating and existing unsecured notes. This is because subordination risk to debenture holders from debt at subsidiaries is limited, provided the […]