Economy

U.S. offers tariff-free access for up to 80% of Sri Lankan exports

Published

7 months ago

July 18, 2025

The United States has offered to allow 70 to 80 percent of Sri Lankan exports to enter the U.S. market without tariffs, Economic Development Deputy Minister Prof. Anil Jayantha Fernando said.

The offer was made during ongoing trade discussions between the two countries, following U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent decision to impose reciprocal tariffs on nations with significant trade deficits with the U.S.

Speaking on a television program today, Prof. Fernando revealed that the U.S. has proposed a list of 1,161 Sri Lankan export products to be considered for duty-free access, including major exports such as apparel and 42 items related to the agricultural sector.

However, the Deputy Minister noted that the specifics of the proposal cannot be publicly disclosed at this stage, as the discussions are still in progress and governed by diplomatic protocols.

“These matters are technical and sensitive. While the offer is significant, the full details of the potential agreement will be shared only once negotiations are finalized,” he added.

Economy

Sri Lanka records US$ 751.1 million in workers remittances in January 2026

Published

1 week ago

February 9, 2026

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Foreign worker remittances to Sri Lanka reached US$ 751.1 million in January 2026, marking a 31.1% rise from US$ 573.0 million in January 2025, the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) said.

The robust start to 2026 comes after a record US$ 8.076 billion in total remittance inflows for 2025.

Economy

Nuwara Eliya Ranks Second on Agoda’s List of Must-Visit Hill Stations in Asia

Published

1 week ago

February 7, 2026

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Sri Lanka’s popular hill resort town Nuwara Eliya has been ranked second among Asia’s must-visit hill stations by digital travel platform Agoda, further strengthening the country’s appeal as a scenic travel destination.

Sri Lanka travel guide

Agoda featured Nuwara Eliya in a new travel list promoting highland destinations across Asia that offer cooler climates, natural beauty and peaceful surroundings for travellers seeking a break from busy city life.

Known as “Little England,” Nuwara Eliya attracts both local and foreign visitors with its tea plantations, colonial-era architecture, cool weather and scenic landscapes. Tourists frequently visit the area for its lakes, misty hills and opportunities for relaxation as well as outdoor activities.

Economy

Galle ranks fifth among top 10 honeymoon destinations for 2026

Published

4 weeks ago

January 20, 2026

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Galle has been placed fifth among the world’s top 10 honeymoon destinations for 2026 in the latest rankings released by Tripadvisor.

The ranking forms part of Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best 2026 and is based solely on the volume and quality of traveller reviews submitted over a 12-month period.

Tripadvisor said the list reflects destinations that consistently received strong feedback from honeymoon travellers worldwide.

Beach and island destinations dominate the upper end of the 2026 rankings. Bali secured the top position, followed by Mauritius and the Maldives, with St. Lucia ranked fourth. Galle placed fifth, ahead of several established long-haul honeymoon favourites.

Tripadvisor noted that Galle’s appeal lies in its blend of heritage and coastal experiences. Founded by the Portuguese in the 16th century, Galle Fort remains a key attraction, with preserved ramparts, historic buildings, and walkable streets.