Harnessing Solar Energy on Railway Tracks in Sri Lanka
This study investigates the feasibility of generating solar power by installing photovoltaic (PV) panels over Sri Lanka’s 1,593 km-long railway track network, inspired by a pioneering Swiss solar rail project. The research utilizes geographic, solar irradiance, and technical efficiency data to estimate the annual power generation potential. The results reveal a potential output of approximately…
Sri Lanka’s Debt Restructuring: A Sustainable Shift or Statistical Sleight?
IMF says when Sri Lanka’s Debt is LKR 17.6 trillion, it is “unsustainable’. But when Sri Lanka’s Debt rises by 65% to LKR 28.7 trillion, the IMF says it is “sustainable”! Sri Lanka’s journey from the brink of economic collapse to a narrative of debt sustainability within three years has sparked both admiration and skepticism.…
IMF Flags Critical Reforms as Sri Lanka Reaches Staff-Level Agreement
Colombo/Washington D.C., May 1, 2025 — The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has reached a staff-level agreement with Sri Lanka under the Fourth Review of its Extended Fund Facility (EFF), clearing the path for the release of approximately USD 344 million in funding. However, the IMF emphasized that the disbursement hinges on two unresolved issues: electricity sector…
Who Will Be the Next Pope?
Leading Contenders After Pope Francis’ Passing Following the death of Pope Francis on April 26, 2025, the Catholic Church is preparing for a historic conclave to elect a new leader. While the Holy Spirit ultimately guides the election, observers, bookmakers, and Church insiders have their eyes on a few prominent cardinals. Here’s the updated list…
Should Sri Lanka Welcome Displaced Indians and Pakistanis Amid Ongoing Conflict?
As tensions between India and Pakistan simmer — fueled by political disputes, border skirmishes, and internal instability — thousands of civilians are caught in the crossfire. Displacement, fear, and uncertainty have become part of daily life for many. In this context, Sri Lanka, geographically close and historically connected to both nations, faces a compelling question: Should…
Trump Reciprocal Tax Strategy for Sri Lanka
What if? Sri Lanka adopts Trump Style Reciprocal Tax (Case Study) The core objective of the Trump Tariff policy was to correct unfair trade imbalances by introducing reciprocal tariffs on countries that imposed high duties on U.S. exports. The approach was rooted in the belief that if a trading partner levies, for example, a 25%…
U.S. Tariffs Ripple Across the Globe: Sri Lankan Industries Brace for Impact
Colombo, April 6, 2025 (LankaBIZ) — The ripple effects of the United States’ sweeping reciprocal tariffs are beginning to reach Sri Lanka, as export-reliant industries feel the pressure from global trade realignments. Although Sri Lanka was not directly targeted by the policy, analysts warn that the island nation’s key sectors — especially apparel and manufacturing —…
Government’s Controversial Decision to Divest Colombo Dockyard Sparks Outrage
April 2, 2025 Colombo Sri Lanka (LankaBIZ) – The Sri Lankan government’s decision to allow the divestment of Colombo Dockyard PLC—a strategic national asset— is likely to draw widespread criticism, with many likely to call for state intervention instead. According to sources government is planning to facilitate the divestment of Colombo Dockyard to Mazagon Dockyard…
Asia Capital Eyes Turnaround Amid Rs 783 Mn Inflow and New Leadership
March 30, 2025 Colombo Sri Lanka (LankaBIZ) – Asia Capital PLC on of the oldest listed companies in Sri Lanka established in 1991 is set for a remarkable financial turnaround in the upcoming fiscal year, buoyed by a significant Rs 783 million capital inflow from the sale of minority shareholdings in three companies. This strategic…
Sri Lanka: Economic Recovery in 2025?
Sri Lanka is projecting strong economic growth exceeding 5% in 2025, driven by improved macroeconomic stability, policy reforms, and recovering investor confidence. Despite potential growth projections Sri Lanka’s economic outlook is clouded by significant structural weaknesses. If GDP growth exceeds 3%, the country may not qualify for a debt restructuring, leading to concerns that figures could…
Japan’s Strategic Grip on Sri Lanka’s Technology and Economy
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake recently met with Japanese Ambassador Akio Isomata and discussed issues of bilateral interest. The Japanese Ambassador stated that efforts have been made to include Sri Lanka in the recently launched security cooperation assistance program by the Government of Japan. Furthermore, the current status and progress of digital economic and airport investments…
Impact of Rainfall on Economic Growth in Sri Lanka (2003–2023): A Statistical Analysis
1. Introduction Rainfall is a key driver of Sri Lanka’s economic growth, particularly in agriculture, energy, and industrial sectors. As a tropical island, Sri Lanka experiences two main monsoons—the Southwest Monsoon (May–September) and the Northeast Monsoon (December–February)—which significantly influence water availability, crop production, and hydropower generation. This study examines the impact of rainfall fluctuations on Sri Lanka’s GDP growth from…
Investment Outlook for the Sri Lanka Stock Market Based on Budget 2025
The Sri Lanka Budget 2025 has introduced significant policy changes that will impact different industries in the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE). Based on the proposed budgetary allocations, government priorities, and economic direction, we can identify sectors that are poised for growth and those that face challenges. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the top shares…
Sri Lanka Unveils Ambitious Budget for 2025: Aiming for Economic Stability and Growth
Colombo, February 17, 2025 (LankaBIZ) – The Sri Lankan government presented its highly anticipated Budget 2025 in Parliament, outlining a comprehensive plan to stabilize the economy, reduce poverty, and foster sustainable development. The budget, which follows a period of economic turbulence, prioritizes fiscal discipline, social welfare, and investment-driven growth. Economic Recovery and Fiscal DisciplineThe government emphasized…
Hayleys PLC Posts Record Profits, But Sustainability Concerns Loom
Colombo, February 15, 2025 (LankaBIZ)– Hayleys PLC, one of Sri Lanka’s largest diversified conglomerates, has reported an impressive financial performance for the nine months ended December 31, 2024, driven by strong revenue growth, operational efficiencies, and strategic cost management. Robust Revenue Growth and Profitability The group’s revenue increased by 12% to Rs. 363.54 billion, compared to Rs.…
Richard Pieris & Company Reports Strong Q3 Growth with 161% Profit Surge
Colombo, February 15, 2025 – Richard Pieris and Company PLC (RICH.N0000) has posted an impressive financial performance for the nine months ending December 31, 2024, with a 161% increase in net profit, reaching Rs. 3.73 billion, compared to Rs. 1.43 billion in the previous year. Revenue and Profitability on the Rise The group’s total revenue rose by 4% to Rs.…
Adani Withdraws from $1 Billion Sri Lanka Wind Power Project
Colombo, February 12, 2025 – LankaBIZ: In a major development, Adani Green Energy Limited (AGEL) has announced its withdrawal from the proposed $1 billion renewable wind power project in Sri Lanka. The decision comes after over two years of negotiations with the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) and various government bodies regarding the establishment of 484…
Hunas Holdings PLC: A Promising Diversified Investment with Strong Growth Potential
Hunas Holdings PLC (HUNA.N0000) is emerging as one of Sri Lanka’s most strategically diversified conglomerates, establishing a robust presence in hospitality, real estate, renewable energy, and agriculture. The company has garnered significant attention from foreign investors, particularly from Japan, due to its high-growth business model and undervalued market position. While the company presents significant upside potential, investors should remain cautious, as…
Sri Lanka Stock Market: FAT LADY SINGS!
The Sri Lankan stock market, much like a grand opera, seemed to be hitting all the right notes before its dramatic fall. Investors were euphoric, indices were soaring, and trading volumes surged, creating an illusion of unstoppable growth. “It ain’t over ’til (or until) the fat lady sings” is a colloquialism which is often used as…
Sri Lanka Updates Motor Vehicle Import Regulations
The Sri Lankan government has introduced new operational instructions under the Imports and Exports (Control) Regulations No. 01 of 2025, significantly affecting motor vehicle importation. These changes, detailed in the Gazette Extraordinary No. 2421/04 dated January 27, 2025, are aimed at regulating vehicle imports while maintaining existing policies under HS Chapter 87. Under the new…
Sri Lanka’s External Sector Performance in 2024: A Year of Resilience and Growth
The Sri Lankan economy experienced a notable improvement in its external sector performance in 2024, bolstered by robust inflows into the current account for the second consecutive year. Despite challenges in merchandise trade, substantial growth in tourism earnings, workers’ remittances, and a strengthened foreign reserves position underscored the nation’s economic resilience. Trade Balance and Merchandise…
Sri Lanka’s Tourism Industry: Resurgence, Historical Trends, and Investment Opportunities
Tourism has long been a key pillar of Sri Lanka’s economy, contributing significantly to foreign exchange earnings and employment. Despite facing multiple disruptions—including the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks, the COVID-19 pandemic, and economic instability—the industry is experiencing a strong resurgence, with record-breaking arrivals and revenue growth in 2024. Historical Tourism Revenue Trends The chart below illustrates the fluctuations in Sri Lanka’s tourism…
Banking Sector – Comparative Analysis
Based on the Comparative Analysis of the banking sector, investors should consider key financial metrics such as EPS growth, Price-to-Book Value (PBV), Return on Equity (ROE), and Net Interest Margin (NIM) before making investment decisions. Several banks present strong growth potential, while others carry higher risks or limited upside. Among the top investment choices, Nations…
Chat2Find: Revolutionizing AI-Powered Assistance in Sri Lanka
Colombo, January 31, 2025 — Chat2Find, a pioneering AI company specializing in conversational artificial intelligence, has significantly expanded its suite of services tailored for the Sri Lankan market. Building upon its commitment to provide real-time, unbiased information, the company has introduced three specialized AI-driven platforms: LankaTAX, LankaLAW, and LankaBIZ. LankaLAW: AI Legal Advisor LankaLAW serves as…
