Category: Watch Tower
Opinion: Sri Lanka could be positioned as a New Haven for Global Talent in a Time of Conflict
By Jithendra Antonio In a world increasingly fragmented by geopolitical conflict, Sri Lanka has a remarkable opportunity to establish itself as a sanctuary for global talent and displaced professionals. Spanning over 65,000 square kilometers with a GDP of $74 billion at present, this island nation can strategically leverage its location and legal framework to attract […]
Opinion: A Low Productivity Trap? Strengthening Skills, Jobs & Public Sector Efficiency in Sri Lanka
By Himani Vithanage Sri Lanka experienced six consecutive quarters of negative economic growth up to the third quarter of 2023. This downturn has had a direct impact on the labour market, leading to lower wage rates and discouraging workforce participation and skill development. As a result, productivity levels continue to fall, creating a vicious cycle […]
Opinion: VAT Hike in Sri Lanka: Who Really Pays the Price?
By Priyanka Jayawardena Earlier this year, Sri Lanka introduced major changes to the Value Added Tax (VAT) system. The VAT rate increased from 15% to 18%, and tax exemptions were removed for 97 items, including essential goods such as gas and stationery. While these revisions aimed to boost government revenue, they have also significantly increased […]
Opinion: What More Can SL’s Government Do? Strategies to Solidify Economic Progress Post-Elections
By Uddeepa Peiris What More Can Sri Lanka’s Government Do? Strategies to Solidify Economic Progress Post-Elections While the recent presidential elections in Sri Lanka have set a positive tone for the country’s economic and political landscape, there is still significant work to be done to build on this momentum. The government’s initial focus on anti-corruption, […]
Opinion: Who Really Benefits? Tackling Inequality, Welfare & Healthcare Challenges in SL
By Sulochana Silva and Rashmi Anupama Sri Lanka’s recent Value Added Tax (VAT) revisions have placed a heavier burden on lower-income households, who now spend 10% of their income on VAT. This tax burden, along with broader issues in taxation, welfare, and healthcare, was a central focus at the Institute of Policy Studies of Sri […]
‘s Fight for Economic Survival & Sovereignty, A Strategic Blueprint for SL’s Currency Revival
By Jithendra Antonio A Nation at the Crossroads Sri Lanka’s currency, the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR), has faced an unrelenting battle over the years, weakening under the weight of global economic shifts, domestic instability, and mounting debt. The rupee’s value, once steady, has plunged to alarming depths, with the exchange rate at over 300 LKR […]
Opinion: Positive Market Impact of SL’s Presidential Elections – Key Decisions for Good Governance
By Uddeepa Peiris Sri Lanka has recently witnessed significant political change following the conclusion of the presidential elections. With a new administration now in place, the initial market response has been overwhelmingly positive, reflecting renewed investor confidence and optimism for future economic growth. This article explores how key decisions made by the newly elected president […]
Opinion: Potential Impact of a Clean, Development-Focused Government on Sri Lanka’s Stock Market
By Uddeepa Peiris As Sri Lanka navigates through a complex political and economic environment, the need for a shift in governance has become more apparent. After years of economic challenges, corruption scandals, and political instability, the prospect of a political party coming to power with a commitment to zero corruption and high development potential is […]
Opinion: Why Sri Lanka Must Establish a Ministry of Artificial Intelligence Under Next President
By Jithendra Antonio In an era where technology is reshaping every facet of human life, Sri Lanka stands at a crucial point. As global giants race ahead with advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) initiatives, our nation must decide whether to be a passive observer or a proactive participant. Establishing a Ministry of AI under the next […]
Opinion: The Importance of maintaining FDIs amidst changing governments
By Jithendra Antonio: As the presidential election draws near, the people are eagerly awaiting the next era of Sri Lanka. There is no doubt that the result of the election will have a lasting impact on the nation and the economy. One of the most important aspects that the next government should focus on, is […]
Opinion: Is Sri Lanka’s state sector as inefficient as alleged?
By Indika Hettiarachchi As Sri Lanka’s presidential and parliamentary elections get closer there are growing accusations that politicians have contributed to the inefficiency in the state sector (under each other’s regime). This is in addition to claims by various organization that Sri Lanka’s public sector deteriorated throughout post-colonial (administration) period, and the “bloated’ public sector […]
Opinion: Click to Give – The Future of Digital Fundraising in Sri Lanka
By Chaya Dissanayake: Digital fundraising is gaining momentum in Sri Lanka. The Doing Good Index 2024 reveals the level of digital technology adoption in Sri Lanka and 17 other Asian economies, among other indicators of philanthropic activities. Enhancing cybersecurity awareness, digital capacity development, and improving existing digital infrastructure are key to promoting digital fundraising in […]