Reuters – The U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran last month plunged the Middle East into crisis, disrupted global shipping routes and spawned a series of headaches for Umar Ali Hyder Ali’s used-car business in Japan. Hyder Ali, who has lived in Japan for two decades, ships used cars from his adopted home to South…
The Monetary Policy Board, at its meeting held yesterday, decided to maintain the Overnight Policy Rate (OPR) at the current level of 7.75%. The Board arrived at this decision after carefully considering evolving developments and outlook on the domestic and global fronts, with particular attention to uncertainties arising from the ongoing Middle East conflict. The…
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) today announced a financial support package to help its developing member countries (DMCs) mitigate the economic and financial impacts resulting from the conflict in the Middle East. “ADB will deliver rapid, flexible, and scalable assistance to help countries manage immediate pressures and strengthen long-term resilience, notably fast-disbursing budget support and…
Sri Lanka’s stock market recorded a notable upswing on Tuesday (24), with both main indices posting strong gains, reflecting improved investor sentiment. The All Share Price Index (ASPI) rose by 706.26 points during the session, while the S&P SL20 Index gained 222.41 points. This marks an increase of 3.47% and 3.91%, respectively, compared to the…
The Planters’ Association of Ceylon (PA) has called for the implementation of a more sustainable electricity tariff framework and energy generation policy, citing the severe economic strain faced by the plantation sector and other export-oriented industries due to prohibitively high electricity tariffs. The PA’s appeal comes at a critical juncture, with public consultations on the…
Dialog Axiata PLC, Sri Lanka’s #1 connectivity provider, has announced the expansion of its 5G network to over 800 live sites spanning 24 districts, reinforcing its commitment to accelerating nationwide digital transformation through sustained investment in next-generation connectivity. Building on the commercial launch of Dialog 5G Ultra with over 220 sites serving more than 1.5…
The Second Round of Bilateral Political Consultations between Sri Lanka and Brazil were held on 20th March, 2026 at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism in Colombo, marking an important step in further strengthening the longstanding and friendly relations between the two countries. The meeting was co-chaired by Secretary to the Ministry, Aruni…
The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce proudly marks its 187th anniversary on 25th March, reflecting a long-standing commitment to supporting Sri Lanka’s businesses and contributing to the country’s progress. Commenting on this milestone, Chairman Mr. Krishan Balendra said “for 187 years, the Chamber has been guided by a simple principle – putting Sri Lanka first. In…
The Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB), through the SheTrades Sri Lanka Hub, successfully conducted a Training Programme on Branding and Digital Marketing for women entrepreneurs in Anuradhapura, with the participation of over 50 women led businesses. The programme was organized under EDB’s Export oriented Women Entrepreneurship Development in Regions initiative, aiming to strengthen the…
Fitch Ratings – Asia-Pacific sovereign credit profiles face heightened downside risks from a prolonged Iran conflict, as the region’s heavy reliance on imported oil and gas raises exposure to higher prices and potential supply disruptions, Fitch Ratings says. Large shares of the oil and gas products used in the region pass through the Strait of…
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