On 19th September 2024, the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka (the “Republic”) announced agreements in principle on the restructuring of approximately USD 14.2bn of sovereign debt (as of end 2023) with the holders of its International Sovereign Bonds (the “Bonds”), following negotiations with the Ad Hoc Group of Bondholders (“AHGB”), a representative group of…
Export Performance in August 2024 As per the provisional data released by the Sri Lanka Customs, the merchandise export performance in August 2024 amounted to US$ 1,165.4 million, recorded an increase of 4.18 % compared to the month of August 2023. This was mainly due to the increase in earnings from export of Apparel &…
The Communist Party of China (CPC) formed the Peoples Republic of China (PRC) on 1st October 1949 & PRC thus celebrates its 75th anniversary on 1st October 2024. Communist Party lead government built world’s 2nd largest economy while delivering domestic demands to a population which is approx 1/5 of global population. This is a good…
Business confidence turned around ahead of an election fraught with uncertainty With a new presidential term taking effect for the next five years, Sri Lanka stands at a pivotal moment, eagerly anticipating the developments and decisions that will shape its future. The business community in particular will be closely watching the unfolding events as the…
As Sri Lanka gears up for its Presidential Election on 21st September, concerns around misinformation and disinformation are at an all-time high. In response, TikTok, a platform renowned for its creativity and entertainment, is taking proactive measures to ensure the integrity of the electoral process. By launching a series of initiatives, TikTok aims to foster…
On the recommendations of the ‘Donoughmore’ commission, British introduced democratic elections to Sri Lanka in 1931. Though the intension was to reduce conflicts, an analysis of election related conflicts since then questions Lankan capacity to understand simple meaning of democracy. Since the parliamentary system lowered from top questioned national stability, President JRJ introduced the Presidential…
By Prof. Asanka S. Rodrigo Sri Lanka stands at crucial crossroads. With an increasing reliance on imported fossil fuels, amidst global climate challenges and energy security concerns, the nation faces mounting economic and environmental pressures. However, the island nation, blessed with abundant natural resources presents a unique opportunity to transition to a more sustainable energy…
Platforms like TikTok are becoming integral for SMBs to reach their audience across different geographies By Indika De Zoysa It goes without saying that social platforms have evolved from a mere communication tool to a powerful catalyst for business growth. For businesses in Sri Lanka, leveraging social media is now optional but essential for navigating…
By Prof. Samitha Hettige Benjamin Franklin said early to bed & early to rise makes a man healthy & wise. However, due to lifestyle changes with night life & smart phones etc. many aren’t following Franklin. Though it’s difficult to wake those who pretend fast asleep, they should be aware that approx. 936 million people…
Large infrastructure projects of the government are often financed by foreign loans and grants. When the amount exceeds USD 100,000, the law requires information about the projects to be disclosed to the public online. However, compliance with the law is poor. In 2024, the government has disclosed only 40% of the required information on foreign-financed…
