SRI LANKA NEWS (MARCH 2025) – By Victor Melder.
Sri Lanka has deployed over 4,700 Civil Security Force personnel to safeguard electric fences established to mitigate human-elephant conflict, Minister of Environment Dammika Patabendi told Parliament on Thursday. The minister said that from 2015 to 2024, successive Governments have spent Rs. 906 million (approximately $ 3.1 million) on constructing elephant fences. During this period, 5,612 km of electric fences have been built. Over the past decade, 3,477 wild elephants and 1,190 people lost their lives due to human-elephant conflicts, while electric fences remain a key measure in controlling this crisis, he added. According to Patabendi, 43 elephants and three people died last month as a result of such conflicts. (Daily Financial Times, 1.3.2025)
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) announced its Executive Board has completed the third review under the 48-month Extended Fund Facility (EFF) Arrangement, allowing the authorities to draw SDR 254 million (about US$334 million). This brings the total IMF financial support disbursed to SDR 1.02 billion (about US$1.34 billion). IMF Deputy Managing Director Kenji Okamura issued a statement saying that reforms in Sri Lanka are bearing fruit and that the economic recovery has been remarkable. Inflation remains low, revenue collection is improving, and reserves continue to accumulate. Economic growth has averaged 4.3 percent since growth resumed in the third quarter of 2023. By the end of 2024, Sri Lanka’s real GDP is estimated to have recovered 40 percent of its loss incurred between 2018 and 2023. The recovery is expected to continue in 2025. ” As the economy is still vulnerable, it is critical to sustain the reform momentum to ensure macroeconomic stability and debt sustainability and promote long-term inclusive growth. There is no room for policy errors,” he said. (Daily Mirror, 1.3.2025)
Stamping a major positive development in the leisure sector, Sri Lanka tourist arrivals have touched the half a million-mark on March 2. Tourist arrivals from February 1 to 27 was at 485,102 and daily arrivals passed around 6,500 per day with February 27 and March 1 and 2 totaling around 18,000 helping the country to pass the 500,000 arrival figure. Tourist arrivals from February 1 to 27 which was at 232,341 also overran the 2018 February arrivals mark of 235,618 which was to date the best in the history. Tourist arrivals also recorded a historically highest monthly figure of 252,761 which is also the highest for any month of January. This was also a 21.4% increase against 2024 January. Top source market for Sri Lanka up to February end was India with 34,006 visitors while the Russian Federation was second with 29,241. The United Kingdom (24,830), Germany (16,720) and France (15,063) were third, fourth and fifth. China’s market is yet to impress with arrivals slipping to sixth place China (11,319) and accounting for only 4.9. % of total arrivals. The Central Bank said that earnings from tourism improved to an estimated USD 401 million in January 2025. (Daily News, 3.3.20250
A legal framework is being drafted to grant women the right to decide on terminating a pregnancy in cases of fatal birth defects that cannot be medically treated or corrected, said the President of the College of Community Physicians, Dr Kapila Jayaratne. Speaking at a seminar conducted by the Sri Lanka Medical Association (SLMA) yesterday (03), Dr Jayaratne explained that when lethal birth defects are detected during gestation, posing a severe impact on both the mother and the unborn baby, women who wish to terminate such pregnancies may do so under regulations outlined in the proposed legal framework. He emphasised the gravity of such situations, noting that in some cases, infants with fatal birth defects survive only for a few hours after birth. Furthermore, these newborns may require intensive care unit (ICU) support, potentially occupying resources needed by another infant with a chance of survival. Dr. Jayaratne highlighted that this initiative is a collaborative effort involving the College of Community Physicians of Sri Lanka (CCPSL), the Sri Lanka College of Paediatricians (SLCP), and the Sri Lanka College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, all of whom recognise the seriousness of the issue. He explained that, under the proposed legal procedure, two medical specialists must confirm the severity of the baby’s condition, and the termination must be carried out at a State-run hospital.Consultant Paediatric Cardiologist at Lady Ridgeway Hospital for Children, Dr. Duminda Samarasinghe, added that while certain congenital heart diseases can be treated and corrected, some, such as hypoplastic left heart syndrome (where the left side of a baby’s heart fails to develop properly), cannot. Most foetal heart defects are detected by the 22nd week of pregnancy. He stressed the highly distressing nature of such cases, as women would otherwise be forced to carry a foetus for 40 weeks, knowing the child would die within hours of birth. (Ceylon Today, 4.3.2025.
The National Tea Sales Average for February recorded Rs. 1,168.93 ($ 3.96), showing a decline of Rs. 16.50 and $ 0.07 in comparison with the January, Forbes and Walker Tea Brokers said. In comparison to the February 2024 average of Rs. 1,320.71 ($ 4.25), shows a marginal decline of Rs. 151.78 and $ 0.29 YOY.Total National Sale Average for the year 2025 (to-date) was recorded at an average of Rs. 1,77.35 ($ 4.00), a decline of Rs. 116.43 ($ 0.11) against the corresponding year’s average of Rs. 1,293.78 ($ 4.11). All elevations except for the High Grown elevation recorded a decline against vis-à-vis the previous month. Against the corresponding month in the year 2024, all elevations witness a negative variance.
The High Grown elevation recorded a negative variance in LKR terms, whilst recording a gain in USD terms YoY. The Mid Grown and Low Grown elevations witness negative variance both LKR and USD terms YoY.Tea exports in 2024 rose by 9.6% to $ 1.43 billion. (Financial Review, 5.3.2025)
The government has received information that an extremist group is operating in Kalmunai, in the Eastern Province, says Cabinet spokesman and Minister Nalinda Jayatissa.Security forces and intelligence agencies are uncovering information on this group, he has said.“Addressing the Parliament last week President Anura Kumara Dissanayake revealed some information about this group and the security forces are keeping an eye on the activities of this group,” Minister Jayatissa said, adding that the government would not allow any extremism or racism in any part of the country. Minister Jayatissa said so in response to a question posed by a journalist about a statement made by Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ananda Wijepala, who said there was an extremist group operating in Kalmunai, in the Eastern Province. “At this moment, we have only received information about such a group operating in the Eastern Province. Intelligence and security agencies are in the process of verifying and investigating the matter. The President had also addressed some concerns related to national security during discussions with officials. What we can confirm right now is that the security forces are closely monitoring the situation,” the Minister said. Addressing the Parliament last week, during the debate on the expenditure for the Defence Ministry, the President said that there were certain groups in the North and East who might stir up trouble and they may be having links to political forces that were afraid of ongoing investigations. (Daily Island, 5.3.2025)
The National Cancer Control Program has reported a concerning rise in cases of colorectal cancer among both the elderly and children. During a media briefing at the Health Promotion Bureau, Dr. Srini Alahapperuma, Deputy Director of the Program, explained that the primary causes are poor lifestyle choices and a lack of physical activity. Dr. Alahapperuma highlighted that, while colorectal cancer was relatively rare a decade ago, it has now become the third most common cancer worldwide and in Sri Lanka. She emphasized that adopting healthier habits and leading an active lifestyle can help prevent the disease. Colorectal cancer is more prevalent in older individuals due to increased risk factors with age, though it is not age itself that directly causes the disease. In Sri Lanka, about 1,500 men and 1,500 women are diagnosed with colorectal cancer each year. (Daily News, 6.3.2025)
The Government hopes to engage women to man trains and buses in two-year’s time, Minister of Transport Bimal Ratnayke told Parliament today. “You will see women guards, train engine drivers. We hope to allow women to run school buses. This programe will begin from tomorrow in line with the Universal Women’s Day,” he said. (Daily Mirror, 7.3.2025)
Between 4,000 and 5,000 children are born with birth defects in Sri Lanka annually, with heart-related conditions being the most prevalent, according to Dr. Kapila Jayaratne. He said they had concerns over rising birth defects and declining birth rates. “This issue is not confined to Sri Lanka but has gained the attention of medical professionals worldwide. There has been an increase in birth defects related to the musculoskeletal system, digestive system, kidneys, and genetic disorders. “Currently, the country records 247,000 live births annually,” Jayaratne said. “ Our goal is to ensure a healthier future generation. We also plan to implement large-scale programmes aimed at strengthening child healthcare and protection.” The event was also attended by Dr. Gayani Gunawardhana, Consultant in Community Medicine at the Family Health Bureau; Dr. Vindhya Subasinghe, Paediatrician at the Lady Ridgeway Children’s Hospital, Prof. Vajira Dissanayake, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, and Dr. Duminda Samarasinghe, Consultant in Paediatric Cardiology, who also addressed the media.(Daily Island, 7.3.2025)
Japan has agreed to reschedule a massive ¥369,453,720,000 (approximately USD 2.46 billion) of Sri Lanka’s debt, offering critical financial relief to the crisis-hit nation. The Sri Lankan Government and Japan signed and exchanged agreements on 7 March to restructure debts owed to the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), including obligations of Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) Limited. Under the new terms, Sri Lanka will repay the total loan in semi-annual instalments starting from 5 January 2028, with the final payment due on 5 July 2042. Japanese Embassy Press Secretary Kitamura Toshihiro confirmed the deal, marking a significant step in Sri Lanka’s debt restructuring efforts. The interest on Sri Lanka’s rescheduled debt to Japan will be structured as follows: accrued interest from 1 January 2023, to 31 December 2023, will be paid on 5 July 2025, while interest accruing from 1 January 2024, onward will be paid in instalments from 5 July 2025, to 5 July 2042. The applicable interest rates are 0.96 per cent per annum for the Government of Sri Lanka and 0.18 per cent per annum for Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) Limited. (Ceylon Today, 8.3.2025)
In a significant feat for Sri Lanka’s tourism industry, total arrivals for the year have surpassed the half-a-million mark, fueling optimism about achieving the ambitious target of 3 million visitors by the end of 2025.Year-to-date (YTD), the country welcomed a total of 530,746 tourists, reflecting a 15.1% year-on-year (YoY) growth, which was supported by the 37,786 arrivals during the same period that also marked a 9.12% increase compared to the corresponding period in 2024. For March, Sri Lanka Tourism has projected 302,803 arrivals, with 265,107 additional tourists needed in the remaining 26 days, whilst the first two months have miserably failed to meet the monthly targets, despite the YoY increase in footfall. Looking ahead, achieving the 3 million target by year-end will also require sustained momentum, with the industry needing to secure 82.31% of the remaining arrivals over the next nine months of 2025. As per the latest data released by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), from 1 January to 5 March 2025, India remains the largest source market, contributing 84,476 visitors, followed by Russia with 70,159, and the UK with 51,105 travelers. So far in March, Russia (5,768) has led in tourist numbers, followed by India (5,373) and the UK (3,847). Other key markets include: Germany, France, China, Australia, the Netherlands, Poland, and Bangladesh. The industry also saw a significant financial boost, generating $ 400.7 million in revenue in January 2025, reflecting a 17.2% YoY increase. With the Government aiming to surpass $ 5 billion in tourism income in 2025, the focus remains on sustaining growth, enhancing promotional efforts, and improving infrastructure to attract more visitors in the months ahead. (Financial Times, 8.3.2025)
A Parliamentary Committee revealed that the production of liquor in the country has increased by 22% within the last two months while revenue has grown by 23%. This was revealed during the meeting of the Committee on Public Finance (CoPF) held in Parliament recently chaired by MP Dr. Harsha de Silva. The officials of the Ministry of Finance said that plans are underway to introduce a new category of liquor with the aim of minimising the consumption of illicit liquor. The proposal to increase the excise duty on liquor under Excise Notification No. 01/2025 issued under Section 22 of the Excise Ordinance (Chapter 52) was considered and approved by the Committee. During the discussions, Members of Parliament raised concerns that such tax increases could potentially drive individuals towards the consumption and production of illicit liquor. In response, officials stated that raids against illicit liquor operations are being conducted systematically. (Daily Mirror, 9.3.2025)
Workers’ remittances inflow during the first two months increased by 16.3% year-on-year (YoY) to $ 1.12 billion, marking the highest cumulative in the period since 2021, the latest Central Bank data revealed. The workers’ remittances in February also increased by 15.1% YoY to $ 548.1 million. However, February experienced a slight decrease of 4.54% when compared to $ 573 million in January 2025. Despite the month-on-month decline, the overall trend remains positive, building on last year’s momentum. In 2024, workers’ remittances hit a four-year high of $ 6.57 billion, up by 10.1% from $ 5.69 billion in 2023. The surge followed a record wave of people seeking foreign employment after an unprecedented economic crisis The sharpest post-crisis recovery was in 2023, when workers’ remittances grew by 57% to $ 6 billion, rebounding from a 12-year low of $ 3.78 billion in 2022. Highest-ever workers’ remittances were in 2016 at $ 7.24 billion, whilst between 2014 and 2018, the annual average was $ 7 billion, suggesting a monthly inflow of around $ 600 million. (Daily Financial Times, 10.3.2025)
Nuwara Eliya has witnessed the deaths of four leopards in just 68 days, according to officials from the Wildlife Conservation Department. The most recent incident occurred on March 6 in Talawakelle, while another leopard carcass was discovered in Palmerston on February 27. Earlier, a leopard was found dead in Dimbula-Pathana on February 9, and another was recovered in Pussellawa on January 17 after being caught in a wire trap. Wildlife officials reported that one of the leopards was killed in a road accident, while another died in a scuffle with an animal. In 2023, a total of 12 leopard deaths were recorded, but until these recent incidents, no leopard fatalities had been reported in 2024. Authorities urge the public to take necessary precautions to protect these endangered creatures, emphasizing the need for conservation efforts in the region.(Daily Mirror, 10.3.2025)
Medical professionals have strongly opposed the Excise Department’s plan to introduce a lower-priced alcohol product calling it a move that will fuel consumption rather than curb illicit alcohol use. The proposal, first announced in December 2024, was reintroduced at the Parliamentary Committee on Public Finance (COPF) meeting on March 9, despite public and professional opposition, including from the Sri Lanka Medical Association (SLMA). Officials argue that a cheaper legal alternative would reduce illicit alcohol consumption, increase government revenue, and protect consumers’ health. However, Alcohol and Drug Information Centre (ADIC) counters that such measures historically have led to increased alcohol use. Citing past experiences, they highlight that a 50% beer tax reduction in 1996 resulted in a 200% surge in beer consumption without addressing illicit alcohol concerns. ADIC warns that the move would primarily shift consumers from higher-taxed alcohol to the cheaper alternative, ultimately reducing government tax revenue while increasing overall alcohol consumption. In addition, they argue that lower-priced legal alcohol would not deter illicit alcohol producers, who would simply adjust their prices to remain competitive. Highlighting global research, ADIC stresses that higher alcohol taxes are the most effective strategy to reduce consumption and related harm. The organization urges authorities to focus on enforcing taxation, cracking down on illicit trade, and aligning policies with public health priorities rather than catering to industry interests. Meanwhile, GMOA Media Spokesman Dr. Chamil Wijesinghe told Daily Mirror that their organization is anyway against any move to promote any form of alcohol. (Daily Mirror, 13.3.2025)
The Diyawadana Nilame of the Sri Dalada Maligawa Nilanga Dela who expressed concern about the shortage of domesticated elephants said that the number of domesticated elephants would reduce to ten by 2040. Addressing a ceremony at the Sri Dalada Maligawa to launch a song on elephants who adorn the forest, composed by Sunil Sarath Perera , he pointed out that 160 domesticated elephants were available in 2015 but it has reduced to 96 today. The Diaywadana Nilame said 60 domesticated elephants had died within ten years. However, the Diyawadana Nilame said that the population of wild elephants would increase in time to come since a female elephant gives birth to four calves during its life time. (Daily Mirror, 13.3.2025)
Over the past five years, 1,238 elephants have tragically lost their lives due to various causes, with 138 deaths resulting from train accidents alone. These fatalities have raised serious concerns about the safety of wildlife and the urgent need for effective measures to prevent such tragedies. V.S. Polwattage, the Deputy Project Director of Railway Operations, highlighted that train accidents have been a major contributor to the loss of elephant life. To address this, the Railway Department has cleared tracks in areas where elephants are commonly found and has implemented measures that allow train drivers to stop if an elephant is spotted on the tracks. Additionally, electric fences have been installed along both sides of the railway track and in nearby reserves, creating a corridor to help protect the animals. Meanwhile, Manjula Amaratna, the Director of Wildlife Health, expressed concerns about the increasing number of jeeps entering Yala National Park. While around 300 jeeps used to enter daily, the number has now nearly doubled, reaching 500. Amaratna also warned that feeding elephants is harmful, as it encourages them to venture onto roads in search of food. This behavior can lead to further incidents, as elephants may cause damage once they become accustomed to human-provided food. Amaratna urged the public to refrain from feeding wild animals to help prevent such tragedies and preserve the safety of both wildlife and humans. (Daily Mirror, 15.3.2025)
Sri Lanka’s tea production for February totaled 15.59 million kilograms, reflecting a decrease of 4.40 million kilos compared to 19.99 million kilos registered in February 2025. All elevations experienced a decline in production when compared to the same month last year. Data analysed by Forbes and Walker Research noted that when compared to 18.76 million kilos in February 2023, production in February 2025 shows a drop of 3.16 million kilos For the January-February 2025 period, cumulative production reached 37.16 million kilos, a decrease of 1.37 million kilos from the 38.53 million kilos registered in the same period of 2024.However, high grown showed a positive variance, both medium grown and low grown saw a decline in 2025. Forbes and Walker Research said comparing January-February 2025 with 37.23 million kilos recorded in the same period of 2023, production decline by 0.07 million kilos. On a cumulative basis, apart from the high grown, all other elevations registered negative variances over 2023 levels. (Financial Times, 15.3.2025)
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Somerset Estate situated in Nanu Oya set a new benchmark in the tea industry by achieving an all-time record price of Rs. 3,050 per kg for a BOP grade in the Western High Grown category at the weekly online tea auctions held on 10-11 March. This surpasses their own record of Rs. 2,600 per kg established in 2022. Situated in the Dimbulla Agro-Climatic Region, specifically in the sub-regions of Talawakelle, Lindula and Nanu Oya, Somerset Estate benefits from its location in the upper reaches of Nanu Oya, an area renowned for producing some of the finest teas in Sri Lanka. Somerset Estate is ISO 22000 and Rainforest Alliance certified, demonstrating its commitment to high-quality production and sustainable practices. This estate is managed by Talawakelle Tea Estates PLC, a subsidiary of Hayleys PLC under the stewardship of Senior Regional General Manager Kosala Wijesekara who was instrumental in achieving this feat. This line of tea was purchased by Tea Tang Ltd. and was marketed by Forbes & Walker Tea Brokers Ltd. (Financial Times, 15.3.2025)
Close to 40 percent of the total liquor production by manufacturers enter the market through illicit means to evade taxes causing a revenue loss between Rs. 80-100 billion to the State coffers each year according to legal distillers and brewers. Licit liquor manufacturers totaling around 63 percent, contribute around Rs. 300 billion in tax revenue to the State. A leading distiller told a post-Budget discussion last week “This illicit and unfair trade has been continuing for ages without any interruption incurring a major tax revenue loss to the country and harming the health of consumers,” he said. He said the illicit liquor business is much stronger than the criminal network in the country as it’s backed by businessmen with links to politicians and their supporters. However, according to data of around 25 licensed distillers and brewers, four contribute nearly 92 percent of the tax revenue while 21 manufacturers make up only 8-9 percent of the tax income to the state. Licit beer and spirits sales have been flat so far this year. Legal liquor consumption reported 9.5 percent and Year-on-Year decline during the first ten months of 2024 due to tax increases, according to statistics. The 2025 Budget raised the corporate income tax rate for cigarettes, liquor and gaming businesses from 40% to 45% and removing exemptions on export services, applying a 15% tax instead. The Government expects to raise Rs. 130 billion in excise revenue from cigarettes in 2025 and to achieve this, excise taxes were increased by 5.9%. However, tax experts believe that the 5.9% tax hike which came into effect from January this year is not sufficient to meet the Rs. 130 billion excise revenue from cigarettes. The 2025 Budget targets a deficit of 6.7% of GDP, marginally above the IMF’s preference of 5.2% for the year. To bridge the Budget deficit the Government hopes to increase revenue to 15.1% of GDP this year. (Sunday Observer, 16.3.2025)
Sri Lanka’s agricultural sector is facing a significant downturn, with key crops such as paddy, tea and coconut experiencing sharp declines in production. This comes as global agricultural commodities, including coffee and cocoa, also grapple with supply chain disruptions caused by extreme weather. The combined impact is driving up the prices in Sri Lanka, with food inflation becoming a growing concern for both consumers and policymakers. In Sri Lanka, paddy production, the country’s staple crop, has seen a notable decline. By end-December 2024, the forecasted paddy output for the 2024/25 Maha season was 2.57 million metric tonnes, a 5.77 percent decrease from the previous season, according to the Central Bank data. The drop in paddy production has exacerbated the rice price inflation. The retail outlets have reported rice shortages, with some varieties out of stock for weeks or even months. In response, the government has intervened with rice imports, minimum paddy prices and maximum rice prices, though with limited success in stabilising the market. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka’s tea production, the country’s largest agricultural export, saw growth in both December 2024 (9.6 percent) and January 2025 (14.6 percent). However, the production sharply fell by 22 percent in February 2025, totaling 15.59 million kilogrammes. This decline brought the cumulative production for the first two months of 2025, down by 0.07 million kilogrammes. At the same time, the tea auction prices have also been on the decline. Coconut production has also suffered significant setbacks, dropping by 33.1 percent in December 2024 and 32.2 percent in January 2025. This ongoing supply issue has driven the coconut prices up, with the households now paying nearly Rs.200 per nut. On a more positive note, the local rubber production grew by 32.4 percent in December 2024, though the provisional data suggests a decline in January 2025. (Daily Mirror, 18.3.2025)
The Sri Lanka Police have released a video featuring a senior officer explaining the requirements for joining the police force. A senior police officer said that having tattoos is not an automatic disqualification for joining the Sri Lanka Police. However, he clarified that individuals with tattoos will not be recruited, even if they hold a degree or postgraduate qualification. He explained that the skin is the body’s largest organ, and damaging it is not advisable. (Daily Mirror, 18.3.2025)
UNP Chairman Wajira Abeywardena on Sunday alleged that during the 1987-1990 period, the JVP killed approximately 1,960 UNPers.The former Minister told the media that the Batalanda Commission report had given that figure in its third chapter. Addressing the media in Colombo, the former parliamentarian said that the JVP had targeted both UNP and leftist politicians during their second abortive insurgency. The UNP victims included two General Secretaries of the party, Nandalal Fernando and Harsha Abeywickrema.Abeywardena said that those demanding action against the former President Ranil Wickremesinghe, on the basis of the Batalanda Commission report, had conveniently forgotten the atrocities perpetrated by the JVP. The JVP-led NPP won both presidential and parliamentary polls last year.(Daily Island, 18.3.2025)
In another reaffirmation of the strength of the ongoing economic recovery since the country fell into its economic depths back in 2022, Sri Lankan economy has recorded an estimated 5.4 percent growth in its economy in the fourth quarter of last year bringing the full year growth to the expected 5.0 percent in 2024. According to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) estimates published by the Census and Statistics Department, the fourth quarter marked the highest rate of growth since the current recovery took off six quarters ago in the third quarter in 2023. In US dollar terms, Sri Lankan economy was of the size of 98.98 billion by the end of 2024. Further, the 2024 GDP growth is also the highest since 2014, when the economy grew by 5.0 percent. During that period the Sri Lankan economy was bustling with broad set of activities and expansion with sharp increase seen in the people’s incomes and economic wellbeing in a short span since the end of the war in 2009. The per capita income too rose to US$ 4,516 or Rs.1,364,235 in 2024, the first time the country managed to record a per capita income in excess of US$ 4,000. The appreciation of Rupee against the US dollar also helped higher US dollar incomes for the people in 2024 as the Rupee strengthened by about 10.0 percent, after rising by 12.0 percent in 2023. The sharp expansion in the economy was attributable to many factors from the availability of once again the foreign currency, which ran out in early 2022. The higher pace of growth was possible mainly from the lower base the Sri Lankan economy had from 2023 after two consecutive years of decline. The economy had its worst decline since its post-independence history in 2022 when growth fell by 7.3 percent before containing the contraction to 2.3 percent in 2023. “After the two declined GDPs in 2022 and 2023, Sri Lanka’s economy recorded a positive growth rate in the year 2024, paving the way for more positive expectations to come,” Census and Statistics Department said releasing their fourth quarter GDP estimates yesterday. “By facilitating and benefitting from these expansions of the economy, both export and import volume indices had shown remarkable increases throughout the year 2024 with increased container and cargo handling in the ports of Sri Lanka”, they added. “With the tendency to reduce interest rates, simultaneous increase in domestic credit was seen which created more liquidity in the economy especially on the hands of private institutes and individuals,” they explained the reasons for the current recovery in the economy. The fourth quarter GDP growth was underpinned mainly by the industry and the services sectors which grew by 13.1 percent and 2.5 percent respectively followed by a 15.7 percent increase in the taxes less subsidies category. But as evidenced from the troubles seen in the agricultural produce since the latter part of last year, the agriculture segment contracted by 2.2 percent. But all four components grew for the full year with each growing by 11.0 percent, 2.4 percent, 10.3 percent and 1.2 percent respectively. Meanwhile, the four segments contributed to the economy with 26.7 percent share by the industry, 59.2 percent by the services, 6.6 percent by the taxes less subsidies on products and agriculture with a share of 7.5 percent. (Daily Mirror, 19.3.2025)
Suspended Inspector General of Police (IGP) Deshabandu Tennakoon, who appeared before the Matara Magistrate yesterday (19), was remanded till a decision is made regarding his bail, which is expected to be delivered today (20). Tennakoon surrendered to the Matara Magistrate’s Court after being on the run for 20 days. A warrant had been issued for his arrest in connection with a shooting incident near the W15 Hotel in Weligama in 2023. Appearing on behalf of the Attorney General, Additional Solicitor General Dileepa Peiris argued that Tennakoon should not be granted bail until the hearing is concluded, stating that he was more dangerous than an underworld leader. Peiris added that Tennakoon was unfit to serve even as a Police Constable. President’s Counsel Shanaka Ranasinghe, instructed by President’s Counsel Romesh de Silva, representing Tennakoon, requested that his client be granted bail under suitable conditions. The case is scheduled to be heard today (Ceylon Today, 20.3.2025)
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon Dr. Anand Ratnayake said that three people in Sri Lanka die every day from oral cancer. In a media briefing held by the Health Promotion Bureau, Colombo to mark World Oral Health Day on Thursday (20), Dr. Ratnayake explained that tobacco, tobacco-related products, and betel leaves have been conclusively proven to be carcinogenic factors contributing to the disease. Dr. Ratnayake further disclosed that approximately 3,000 new cases of oral cancer are reported annually in Sri Lanka. However, he emphasized that if detected early, oral cancer can be easily managed and controlled. He attributed a significant portion of the cases to smoking and betel chewing, both of which are major risk factors in the development of this deadly disease. The alarming statistics serve as a stark reminder of the health risks associated with tobacco and betel consumption, underscoring the need for increased awareness and early detection to prevent further loss of life. (Sunday Island, 23.3.2025)
Sri Lanka has experienced a disturbing increase in gun violence this year, with 27 shooting incidents resulting in 22 deaths and several injuries. Police said that 18 of these shootings were carried out by organized crime groups, accounting for 19 fatalities. The latest incident took place in Devinuwara, where two young men on a motorcycle were shot at and killed by assailants travelling in a van. Four suspects, including a woman, have been arrested in connection with the attack. In total, 13 people have been injured in shootings this year, with eight of these injuries linked to organized crime activities. (Daily Mirror, 23.3.2025)
Twenty nine percent of Sri Lanka’s adolescent population, or approximately 3.5 million young persons aged 10 to 19, are currently not attending school, according to the latest findings of the Global School-Based Student Health Survey (GSHS) 2024 Sri Lanka report, released recently. The survey, conducted with the participation of 3,843 students from grades 8-12 in 40 government schools across the country, sought to assess health-related behaviour, identify risk and protective factors, and help shape policies and programmes designed to improve adolescent health in Sri Lanka. Among the survey’s findings, nearly one in five students—17.4%—reported consuming unhealthy amounts of alcohol, with a significantly higher percentage of boys involved in this behaviour. The report also highlighted the prevalence of unhealthy food choices, with 28% of students drinking sugary beverages daily, and 28.5% regularly eating salty snack foods. Alarmingly, 29.3% of students consumed high-fat foods on a regular basis, and 40.9% reported daily consumption of food rich in sugar. The trend of unhealthy eating was further underscored by the revelation that 70.4% of students had consumed instant food at least once in the past week. The survey also sheds light on weight issues among adolescents. Among students aged 13-17, 21.4% were found to be underweight, while 12.1% were classified as overweight. In addition, 12.8% of students had experimented with smoking, either trying a cigarette or more. (Daily Island, 25.3.2025)
Sri Lanka’s export sector continued its growth momentum in February 2025, with total exports reaching US $ 1.38 billion, reflecting a 4.62 percent year-on-year (YoY) increase, data from the Export Development Board showed. Merchandise exports rose 3.9 percent to US $ 1.06 billion, led by a strong performance in agricultural shipments, while industrial exports remained steady. Services exports surged 24.37 percent YoY to US $ 326.1 million, driven by gains in ICT/BPM, construction, financial services and transport and logistics. Apparel and textiles, Sri Lanka’s largest export category, posted a modest 1.42 percent increase to US $ 427.3 million. However, coconut-based products saw a significant 20.93 percent rise, with coconut kernel, fibre and shell products registering strong growth. Coconut oil and milk powder exports stood out, jumping 57.42 percent and 77.88 percent, respectively. Spices and essential oils recorded a robust 64.98 percent increase to US $ 37.9 million, fueled by a surge in pepper (243.13 percent), cinnamon (19.32 percent) and cloves (309.56 percent) exports. The boatbuilding sector saw an unprecedented 18,300 percent increase, reaching US $ 3.68 million. Meanwhile, ICT exports climbed 32.14 percent to US $ 141.89 million and logistics and transport services rose 34.91 percent to US $ 170.47 million. Meanwhile, tea exports, accounting for 12 percent of merchandise exports, fell 6.52 percent YoY to US $ 119.41 million, weighed down by a 22.96 percent drop in bulk tea sales. Rubber and rubber-based products declined 6.33 percent to US $ 83.11 million, while food and beverage exports dipped 4.12 percent to US $ 41.23 million. Seafood exports suffered a sharp 34.24 percent drop to US $ 13.6 million, with fresh fish and shrimp exports plunging 63.75 percent and 81.42 percent, respectively. Among key markets, India, Germany, the Netherlands and China recorded growth. The US remained Sri Lanka’s top export destination, despite a 3.63 percent YoY drop in February shipments to US $ 240.53 million. However, cumulative exports to the US for January-February 2025 rose 6.52 percent to US $ 500.71 million. Exports to the UK fell 12.3 percent in February to US $ 72.73 million but recorded a slight. Sri Lanka is targeting an ambitious export revenue goal of US $ 19 billion for 2025, with merchandise exports expected to reach US $ 14 billion and services exports projected at US $ 4.2 billion. The long-term plan is to increase export earnings to US $ 36 billion by 2030, with US $ 25 billion from goods and US $ 11 billion from services. (Daily Mirror, 25.3.2025)
While recording a 16.3% rise, foreign remittances sent through the banking system by Sri Lankan workers saw a significant increase by the end of February this year, the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE) said. According to the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL), the remittances for February amounted to USD 548.1 million, contributing to a total of USD 1,121 million in remittances for the first two months of 2025. This marks a notable increase compared to the USD 963.7 million sent during the same period in 2024, demonstrating a steady growth in foreign income inflows. The SLBFE predicts that remittances will continue to grow, reaching an estimated USD 7 billion by the end of 2025. In 2024, remittances stood at USD 6.6 billion, indicating the vital role played by overseas workers in supporting the country’s economy. The increased remittance flow is a positive sign for the country’s foreign reserves, providing essential financial support and stability. (Daily Mirror, 27.3.2025)
Sri Lanka is grappling with an increase over sleep- related problems, raising concerns as 63% of schoolchildren are not getting enough sleep, Consultant Community Physician Dr. Chiranthika Vithanage said. She told a news conference at the Health Promotion Breau that sleep is important for health, and 8.2 % of schoolchildren aged 16 – 17 have a sleep duration of 4 hours or less. She stated that students have reported serious motor veical injuries or being hit by a motor vehical ,with 6.6% females and 16.4% of males experiencing this during the past 12 months. “In violence and unintentional injuries 23.8% faced physical attacks, 6.1% experinced sexual harassment, 10.1% experineced dating violence, 6.9% experinced cyber sexual harrsaments and 34.5% involved in physical fights,” she said. The figures highligted that a significant number of schoolchildren have experineced violence and unintentional injuries, with 47.9% reporting harms caused by teachers. Vithanage pointed out that 6.1% students
Authorities have urged the public to remain cautious while bathing along the coasts of Wellawatte, Dehiwala, and Mount Lavinia due to the presence of crocodiles. Meanwhile, a group of fishermen captured a massive 16-foot crocodile that had been spotted near the area. The reptile, found near the wreck of an old sunken ship, was secured using safety cables and handed over to officers from the Attidiya Wildlife Department. Fishermen report sightings of several other crocodiles in recent days, raising further concerns. Previously, a diver searching for ornamental fish in the area was attacked and killed by a crocodile. (Daily News, 27.3.2025)
The Ministry of Health reports that non-communicable diseases (NCDs) account for 83% of total deaths in Sri Lanka, with high blood pressure being a major concern among the elderly. According to data, 35% of the population over 60 years of age suffers from hypertension inister of Health and Mass Media, Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, revealed that nearly 60,000 people suffer from strokes annually due to undiagnosed high blood pressure. Tragically, around 4,000 of them either die or become permanently disabled each year. Additionally, 20% of Sri Lanka’s adult population has diabetes, yet 41% of them do not seek medical treatment, further exacerbating the country’s health crisis. The Minister shared these alarming statistics at the launch of the Primary Health Care Systems Improvement Project, a new initiative supported by financial assistance from the World Bank. (Daily Mirror, 29.3.2025)
