Economy

Sri Lanka Is South Asia’s Most Favored Nation

Published

6 hours ago

August 21, 2026

Sri Lanka has emerged as the most positively viewed country in South Asia, according to a new study by the Pew Research Center that examined public attitudes across the region.

The research, surveyed public opinion in Bangladesh, India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, asking respondents how they viewed neighboring countries in the region. The study found that Sri Lanka was the only country among those surveyed to receive more favorable than unfavorable ratings from all three foreign publics.

According to the findings, around half or more of respondents in Bangladesh, India and Pakistan expressed positive views of Sri Lanka, while a third or fewer held negative perceptions. Pew Research noted that Sri Lanka stood apart from other regional nations by maintaining a consistently positive image across all countries surveyed.

The report highlighted sharp differences in regional perceptions of other South Asian countries. While India received overwhelmingly positive ratings in Sri Lanka, it was viewed far less favorably in Pakistan and received mixed ratings in Bangladesh. Pakistan was viewed positively by many respondents in Sri Lanka and Bangladesh but received very low favorability ratings in India.

Researchers also found that Sri Lanka’s popularity has improved over time. Favorability toward Sri Lanka among Indians increased by six percentage points since 2024, while positive perceptions across the wider region remained strong.

Economy

Sri Lanka Emerges on Global Supply Chain Radar in White House Report

Published

3 days ago

August 18, 2026

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Sri Lanka has been named in a report released by the White House Office of Trade and Manufacturing Policy examining changes in global trade flows following the introduction of US tariffs on Chinese goods.

The report, titled The Great Transshipment Scam, argues that the restructuring of global supply chains since 2018 has enabled goods originating from higher-tariff jurisdictions, particularly China, to reach the US market through intermediary countries.

According to the report, Sri Lanka is among more than 40 countries identified as having become part of a broader network of manufacturing, logistics and trade hubs that have gained importance as companies diversify production and distribution channels in response to changing trade policies.

The document places Sri Lanka in a category it refers to as “Tier 3” economies, which includes smaller countries that offer advantages such as strategic geographic locations, logistics infrastructure, warehousing facilities, free trade zones, competitive labour costs and access to international markets.

Economy

‘Now Is the Time to Invest in Sri Lanka’ – CBSL Governor

Published

3 days ago

August 18, 2026

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Central Bank Governor Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe has expressed confidence in Sri Lanka’s economic outlook, stating that the country is on a steady recovery path and presents attractive opportunities for investors despite ongoing global economic uncertainties and energy market volatility.

Speaking to Bloomberg on the sidelines of the Invest Sri Lanka events held in Sydney and Melbourne, Australia, Dr. Weerasinghe said the economy has recovered strongly following the country’s economic crisis and is currently recording growth of around five percent.

He noted that Sri Lanka has successfully navigated several external shocks, including tensions in the Middle East and adverse weather conditions caused by cyclonic activity, while maintaining economic stability.

According to the Governor, the economy is now moving towards a higher growth trajectory, creating favorable conditions for both local and foreign investors.

Economy

Rs. 2.5 Billion Revenue-Generating Development Projects To Commence

Published

5 days ago

August 16, 2026

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A series of Revenue-Generating Development projects worth Rs. 2.5 billion will commence across the island from today (14), under the direction of the Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government.

The main objective of the programme is to strengthen the local economy and social conditions.

The project will be implemented under the ‘Punarudaya Purawara’ national program in Sri Lanka.

Accordingly, the first programme will be held today in the Madurankuliya, Puttalam and the Agunukolapelessa area, under the patronage of the Minister and Deputy Minister of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government.

More than 100 projects covering several sectors are to be included in the programme.