🇱🇰 Sri Lanka

Latest Dispatches

• Sri Lanka exports surge 21.66% in September, led by electronics and spices — Sri Lanka's goods exports climbed sharply in September 2026, expanding by over one-fifth as electronics and spices drove the outbound shipment growth. The robust performance signals strengthening demand for key Sri Lankan export categories in international markets.
• Sri Lanka must shift focus beyond recovery to ensure sustainable growth — Economic analysts say Sri Lanka faces critical policy decisions to move beyond immediate recovery measures and establish foundations for durable long-term growth. Experts identify structural reforms as essential to prevent recurring economic crises.
• Colombo bourse opens flat as ASPI inches up marginally — Sri Lanka's stock market opened with minimal movement on Tuesday, with the All-Share Price Index rising just 0.02 percent in subdued trading.
• Sri Lankan stocks gain ground as capital goods sector drives trading — Share prices rose across the Colombo bourse on Tuesday, with capital goods companies emerging as the primary drivers of market activity. The broader market momentum reflected renewed investor confidence in select equities.
• Sri Lanka Stock Exchange eyes 150,000 new investors via branch expansion — The Colombo Bourse is launching an aggressive retail investor recruitment drive through a planned expansion of its branch network. The initiative aims to broaden market participation and deepen the domestic investor base.
• Sri Lanka purges over 331,000 ineligible welfare beneficiaries — Sri Lankan authorities have removed more than 331,000 unqualified recipients from the national welfare system as part of efforts to streamline social assistance programmes. The move is expected to redirect resources toward genuinely eligible beneficiaries.
• Sri Lanka and FIFA in talks over $25 million football development initiative — Sri Lankan football authorities are in discussions with FIFA regarding a comprehensive $25 million development plan aimed at strengthening the sport's infrastructure and capacity across the island.
• Meteorological Department Issues Heavy Rain Alert for Island — Sri Lanka's meteorological authorities have issued an advisory warning of heavy rainfall expected across various parts of the island. Residents in affected areas are urged to exercise caution and take necessary precautions.
• Global cruise halts operations in Cambodia as fuel costs soar — A luxury cruise ship embarking on a multi-year circumnavigation has suspended operations in Cambodia, leaving passengers stranded amid escalating fuel expenses. The US-based operator is coordinating disembarkation and temporary accommodation for those on board.
• Egyptian court fines journalist, orders closure of independent news site — An Egyptian court has convicted the editor-in-chief of independent news outlet Mada Masr of operating an unlicensed website and ordered its closure. The journalist was detained for several hours before her release following payment of a substantial fine.
• Sri Lanka begins third APG mutual evaluation assessment — Sri Lanka has commenced its third mutual evaluation meeting under the Asia-Pacific Group on Money Laundering, a key assessment of the country's anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing compliance.
• Ceylon Cold Stores Awarded Gold in People Development Recognition — Ceylon Cold Stores has received the Gold award at the SLITAD People Development Awards 2025/26, recognising the company's commitment to workforce development and human resource practices. The accolade highlights the organisation's focus on employee training and organisational growth.