30% U.S. Tariff: Sri Lanka’s Tea and Rubber exports under threat

The Planters’ Association of Ceylon (PA) has voiced serious concerns following U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement of a 30% tariff on all goods imported from Sri Lanka, effective August 1, 2025. The U.S. is one of Sri Lanka’s key markets for both tea and rubber. In 2024, the U.S. bought 6.4 million kg of Ceylon Tea worth USD 45 million. …

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Japan grants Rs.687M for public sector scholarships

The Government of Japan has granted Japanese Yen 332 million (approximately Rs. 687 million) to Sri Lanka under the Japanese Grant Aid for Human Resources Development Scholarship (JDS) Programme for 2025. An Exchange of Notes and a Grant Agreement were signed yesterday, 24 July 2025, at the Ministry of Finance by Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma, Secretary to the Treasury, Ambassador ISOMATA …

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Sri Lanka and Thailand aim to boost trade ties

The Ambassador of Thailand to Sri Lanka, H.E. Mr. Paitoon Mahapannaporn, expressed hope for the full implementation of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the two countries during a meeting with Sri Lanka’s Speaker of Parliament, Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne, on July 22 at the Parliamentary premises. The two leaders discussed strengthening bilateral ties, highlighting the strong cultural and religious links …

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Cabinet approves land for Nanoscience Park

The Cabinet of Ministers approved the transfer of land for the establishment of a Nanoscience Park and the Faculty of Technology at the University of Colombo at the Cabinet meeting held yesterday 21 July,2025. This decision was made following a proposal by the Minister of Urban Development, Construction, and Housing. The Urban Development Authority (UDA) had acquired 91.40 hectares (225 …

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IMF warns of trade threats to SL’s growth

Sri Lanka’s economy is expected to grow by 3.5% this year, after recording 5% growth last year, according to the World Bank, showing signs of steady recovery from the 2022 financial crisis. However, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) warns that global trade issues, especially with the United States could slow down that progress. In a statement issued after completing its …

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