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Huawei and Qualcomm has announced a multi-year, broad patent licence agreement that includes cross licences to the companies’ patent portfolios across a range of technology fields, including 5G, compute, AI, and networking, together with Qualcomm’s purchase of certain Huawei US patents in the areas of compute, AI, networking, and other technologies.

This transaction will close following receipt of the necessary regulatory approvals. The agreement reflects the companies’ shared commitment to intellectual property rights and to licensing practices consistent with fair, reasonable and non-discriminatory (FRAND) principles.

Huawei’s Chief Intellectual Property Officer Alan Fan said: ‘Huawei’s decades of sustained investment in fundamental R and D have driven innovation and progress in mobile communications and other technology fields. Huawei’s broad contributions to the 4G/5G standards, such as the near-physical-limit signal transmission technology using polar codes, have established Huawei’s leadership in the mobile communications industry, and continuously transformed the way people communicate and live.’

‘This agreement not only demonstrates the value of Huawei’s innovations, but also recognises Qualcomm’s foundational contributions to modern communication technologies,’ Fan added.

Qualcomm Technology Licensing Executive Vice President and General Manager John Han said: ‘Qualcomm has invested in foundational wireless technologies that have enabled successive generations of mobile innovation and earned broad recognition across the global wireless industry. This agreement reaffirms industry recognition of Qualcomm’s 5G technology leadership and the success of Qualcomm’s 5G SEP licensing program. This agreement likewise reflects Qualcomm’s recognition of Huawei’s continued innovation and intellectual property in 5G and other technology fields.’

Nirosh De Silva has been elected President of the Japan Sri Lanka Technical and Cultural Association (JASTECA) for the 2026-2028 term at the Association’s 40th Annual General Meeting held recently.

His election marks a new chapter for JASTECA, with a renewed focus on innovation, Japanese management excellence, professional development, youth engagement and stronger collaboration between Sri Lanka and Japan.

Established in 1984, JASTECA plays an important role in strengthening bilateral relations by promoting Japanese management practices, technical knowledge, cultural understanding and business cooperation. The Association also supports the development of Sri Lankan professionals through training opportunities facilitated by the Association for Overseas Technical Cooperation and Sustainable Partnerships (AOTS) in Japan.

Under the new leadership, JASTECA aims to further expand its contribution to Sri Lanka’s industrial and economic development by promoting the principles of Kaizen (continuous improvement), 5S, Lean Management and operational excellence, alongside digitalisation, environmental, social and governance (ESG) practices, and sustainable business development.

A key priority will be to connect traditional Japanese management philosophies with modern business innovation and emerging technologies, enabling Sri Lankan organisations to enhance productivity, quality, competitiveness and sustainability in an increasingly challenging global business environment.

The new administration also intends to strengthen professional development opportunities for AOTS alumni, encourage greater participation by young professionals, and create stronger platforms for knowledge-sharing between industry leaders, academics, entrepreneurs and Japanese partners. Revitalising youth-focused initiatives and expanding corporate engagement are expected to be important elements of this effort.

JASTECA’s National Awards program will continue to provide a platform for recognising organisations and professionals that demonstrate excellence in Japanese management practices, particularly in 5S, Kaizen, corporate social responsibility and ESG. These initiatives are intended to encourage a culture of continuous improvement and recognise practical innovations that contribute to organisational and national development.

The Association will also seek to deepen its engagement with the Embassy of Japan in Sri Lanka, AOTS, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO), Japan Sri Lanka business council and other institutional partners to create further opportunities for technical cooperation, professional exchange and bilateral trade.

With a professional background spanning human resource development, and organisational development, De Silva brings extensive corporate experience to the presidency. His leadership is expected to place particular emphasis on strengthening institutional governance, enhancing member engagement and translating the Association’s objectives into practical, measurable outcomes.

The 2026-2028 term will focus on building a more connected and future-oriented JASTECA, one that preserves the enduring values of Japanese management while embracing innovation, sustainability and digital transformation.

Through closer cooperation between Sri Lankan and Japanese stakeholders, JASTECA aims to reinforce the longstanding friendship between the two countries and contribute to a more productive, innovative and globally competitive Sri Lankan economy.

The national QR payment adoption program is set to soon launch its ‘Lucky Draw,’ with the first draws scheduled for 27 October 2026.

This registration-free nationwide draw aims to encourage and reward the everyday use of LankaQR payments by both customers and merchants.

All transactions made between 1 September 2026 – 28 February 2027 will be eligible, and every customer or merchant who has used LankaQR since 1 September 2026 is automatically considered, providing a hassle-free experience.

Participants have the chance to win two types of cash prizes; a weekly draw prize of Rs. 5,000 (250 winners weekly) and a monthly grand draw prizes of Rs. 1,000,000 (two winners), Rs. 500,000 (two winners) and Rs. 250,000 (two winners).

Weekly draws select 250 winners (125 merchants and 125 customers), whereas the monthly grand draws select six winners (three customers and three merchants). The total prize pool across the six months is estimated at Rs. 51,000,000.

Each eligible LankaQR transaction (person to merchant transactions and person to person transactions are both eligible) enters both parties to both of these draws. All prizes will be credited directly to the winner’s bank account.

For a given month, all four weekly draws and the monthly draw will be held in the following month. On 27 October, four weekly draws and one monthly grand draw will be conducted covering September.

The draw is based on transaction data received from participating banks, and run by LankaPay and supported by GovTech. For transparency, a designated Draw Committee oversees every draw, comprising at least one representative from the Ministry of Digital Economy, the Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development, the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, and the Auditor General’s Department.

To maintain transparency, winners will be announced within two weeks via each bank, and the prizepool distribution via the Ministry of Digital Economy and GovTech.

The Cabinet of Ministers has approved the formulation of a draft Bill to amend the Ayurveda Act, No. 31 of 1961, which governs the regulation, development, and control of Sri Lanka’s indigenous medical sector.

The sector, which comprises Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, and local therapies, is regulated under the Act. Although it has been amended from time to time as required, the need for further amendments has been identified.

The proposed changes are aimed at enabling all activities in the local medical field to be managed more efficiently and productively, and at further formalising the regulation of the sector.

They would also allow for the issuing of licences applicable to the export of local medicines, and support progress towards Sustainable Development Goals in the sector.

The proposal to this effect was submitted by Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa.

The Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government Ministry in partnership with the International Labour Organisation (ILO), last week launched the National Public Service Dialogue Forum.

The Forum provides a formal and structured space for government administrators and public service employees across the country to discuss workplace issues and concerns. It allows workplace challenges and grievances to be addressed through dialogue and joint problem-solving. By improving workplace relations and strengthening accountability, the Forum aims to contribute to a public service that is more responsive and resilient.

The framework operates at three levels-workplace, sectoral and national-so that issues can be addressed at the appropriate level. Workplace forums deal with issues within individual institutions. Issues that cannot be resolved there can be taken to sectoral forums. The National forum addresses issues that affect more than one sector or require action by central government authorities.

Public Service handed over by Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government Ministry Secretary S. Alokabandara said: ‘The National Public Service Dialogue Forum gives administrators and employees a permanent space to raise concerns early and resolve them together, so that services to citizens continue without interruption. It can also help ensure that reforms, including digitalization and training, take account of the experience of the people responsible for delivering public services.’

Established workplace forums have already demonstrated how dialogue was used to address challenges ranging from promotion processes to workplace safety, while identifying ways to strengthen organizational performance and improve service delivery. Building on this experience, the national forum aims to contribute to peacebuilding, strengthen institutional resilience and social cohesion, and improve overall public service delivery.

United Nations Resident Coordinator in Sri Lanka Marc-André Franche said: ‘Public services are where people experience government in their everyday lives. Strengthening those services also means strengthening trust between people and institutions. This Forum is a recognition that lasting peace must be built through dialogue, inclusion and social justice, not enforcement alone.’

ILO Country Office for Sri Lanka and the Maldives Director Joni Simpson said: ‘Social dialogue helps build trust between public institutions and workers by providing a structured way to raise concerns, discuss solutions and manage change. This is essential to preventing disputes and supporting a public service that responds effectively to people’s needs.’

The establishment of the National Forum is supported by the ‘Social Dialogue for Peace and Crisis Prevention in Sri Lanka’ project, which promotes inclusive approaches to dispute resolution and strengthens cooperation across public institutions. This project is implemented by the International Labour Organisation (ILO), United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).

The launch of the National Forum reflects a shift towards more proactive, collaborative governance, recognising that meaningful worker participation, responsive institutions and constructive engagement between government and employees can contribute to lasting peace and economic stability.

The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Ankara, concurrently accredited to Georgia, in collaboration with the Honorary Consuls of Sri Lanka in Tbilisi and Batumi, successfully organised the first-ever Sri Lanka-Georgia Business Forum in Tbilisi, on 16 October 2026.

The Forum acted as a valuable platform to introduce Sri Lanka’s growing trade and investment potential to the Georgian business community and to encourage greater participation in Sri Lanka EXPO 2027 (SLEXPO 2027), Sri Lanka’s flagship trade and investment exhibition.

The opening session featured remarks by the Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Georgia, resident in Ankara, Niluka Kadurugamuwa, Honorary Consul of Sri Lanka in Tbilisi Nino Makhviladze, and Honorary Consul of Sri Lanka in Batumi Misha Dzadzamia. The speakers highlighted Sri Lanka’s potential as an emerging market and a promising investment destination, while underscoring the importance of strengthening business-to-business connections and expanding economic cooperation between Sri Lanka and Georgia.

At the Forum, First Secretary (Commercial) of the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Ankara, Dilanga Hettiarachchi made a comprehensive presentation on Sri Lanka’s trade and investment opportunities. He also introduced SLEXPO 2027, highlighting the opportunities available for Georgian buyers, investors and business representatives to establish new partnerships, explore business prospects and strengthen commercial ties with Sri Lankan counterparts.

The Forum brought together business representatives, traders, buyers and investors, facilitating networking, exchange of information and discussions on potential areas for enhanced bilateral trade and investment cooperation.

The event received a wide media coverage in Georgia, including through its national television. Speaking to the media, the Ambassador invited the Georgian business community to explore Sri Lanka as a promising destination for trade, investment, and business partnerships, highlighting the opportunities available to strengthen economic cooperation between the two countries.

People’s Bank is powering the Inter-School Under-20 Basketball Championship 2026, supporting the development of young sporting talent.

The championship sponsorship was announced at a special media conference attended by Sri Lanka Schools Basketball Association President Iran Champika Silva, officials of People’s Bank and the Association, and student athletes.

The tournament will provide a competitive national platform for young basketball players to demonstrate their skills, determination, and sportsmanship while gaining valuable experience through high-level inter-school competition.

A total of 60 boys’ teams will compete in Divisions A, B, and C, with Division C comprising Tier 1 and Tier 2. The Girls’ competition will feature 26 teams competing in Divisions A, B Tier 1, B Tier 2, C Tier 1, and C Tier 2.

The final-stage matches will be held from 9 to 12 November at the Sugathadasa Stadium, Colombo, culminating in the awards ceremony on 12 November at 5:30 p.m.

Through its partnership with the championship, People’s Bank continues to support the growth of school sports and provide opportunities for the country’s young athletes to develop their talent and pursue sporting excellence.

Authorised Apple partner Abans held the simultaneous launch of the all-new iPhone 18 lineup and the revolutionary iPhone Duo at Apple Mono stores at One Galle Face Mall (OGF) and Colombo City Centre (CCC) on 23 October 2026.

Marking a milestone for Apple enthusiasts across Sri Lanka, this launch introduces the latest generation of iPhones through its longstanding partner, Abans, combining leading technology, sophisticated design and intelligent features to elevate everyday experiences. In a first for Sri Lanka, Abans will launch Apple’s first-ever foldable iPhone, the iPhone Duo, on par with the global launch, reinforcing its commitment to bringing the best Apple innovations to local consumers without delay.

The simultaneous launch at the two Apple Mono stores further strengthens Abans’ position as a trusted destination for genuine Apple products, giving customers in Colombo the opportunity to experience the newest iPhone innovations at two premier retail locations.

The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max set a new benchmark for smartphone performance and photography. Powered by Apple’s A20 Pro chip, both models feature an advanced 48MP Fusion Main camera with variable aperture, offering greater creative control and improved results across different lighting conditions. Enhanced thermal management supports sustained performance, while significant battery improvements enable users to do more throughout the day. Available in black, silver, glacier and the new burgundy finish, the Pro models also introduce a more versatile Dynamic Island and the latest iOS 27 experience.

Making its debut as Apple’s first foldable iPhone, the iPhone Duo brings a new dimension to mobile technology. Its innovative design combines a compact 5.4-inch outer display with an expansive 7.6-inch inner display, creating a versatile device for multitasking, gaming and immersive content consumption. Crafted from Grade 5 titanium and powered by the A20 Pro chip, the iPhone Duo combines premium manufacturing with powerful performance. Its advanced 48MP camera system and iOS 27 features further enhance the experience, whether the device is folded or fully open.

Both product lines integrate Apple Intelligence and the next-generation Siri AI, bringing more personal, context-aware assistance into everyday tasks, with privacy and security remaining central to the experience.

To celebrate the arrival of the new iPhone range, Abans is extending special offers to customers during the launch period. Accordingly, customers who pre-ordered the iPhone 18 received complimentary AirPods 5th Generation, while customers who pre-ordered the iPhone 18 Pro Max and iPhone Duo received complimentary AirPods Pro. These exclusive offers will continue throughout the launch period, giving more customers the opportunity to benefit from these limited-period promotions. The first fifty customers also received free LG Televisions, a never-before given promotional offer.

Making the latest Apple innovations more accessible, Abans also offers a 60-month instalment plan on credit cards, a buyback and a trade-in offer that allows customers to exchange eligible existing devices, offering greater flexibility for customers looking to upgrade to the latest generation of Apple devices.

Beyond bringing the latest Apple products to Sri Lanka, Abans is committed to delivering a reliable and rewarding ownership experience through trusted retail service, product protection and dependable after-sales support.

As an authorised Apple reseller, Abans provides genuine Apple products, supported by proper documentation, a trusted warranty and genuine after-sales support. Customers can purchase with confidence, knowing they are buying from a trusted retailer committed to product authenticity and customer care.

Abans also offers Shield Pro, a drop-damage warranty that covers up to two replacements of the front glass and two replacements of the back panel, subject to the applicable terms and conditions. Abans is also an Apple Authorised Service Provider, giving customers access to authorised service support. This complements the company’s retail offering by providing customers with a trusted point of contact for assistance throughout their Apple ownership journey.

With two Apple Mono stores at One Galle Face Mall and Colombo City Centre, Abans combines convenient access to the latest Apple products with trusted service, customer-focused offers and a comprehensive support experience.

The simultaneous launch of the iPhone 18 lineup and iPhone Duo underscores Abans’ ongoing commitment to connecting Sri Lankan consumers with globally acclaimed technology. By bringing the iPhone Duo to Sri Lanka on par with its global launch, alongside exclusive launch offers, flexible financing, device trade-in opportunities and added protection, Abans aims to make the latest Apple experiences more accessible to local customers.

Customers are invited to visit the Apple Mono stores at One Galle Face Mall and Colombo City Centre from 23 October 2026 to explore the new iPhone range, experience its latest features and take advantage of special launch offers.

American Premium Water, a pioneer and market leader in Sri Lanka’s bottled drinking water industry for 30 years, has earned regional recognition for its commitment to sustainability and purpose-led communication. Its World Water Day campaign, ‘Fill Her Glass’, won a Gold Dragon in Cause, Environment or Sustainability and a Black Dragon in Small Budget at the Dragons of Asia Awards in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

The campaign was also nominated as finalist for the Red Dragon, recognising the Best in Asia.

The achievement reflects American Premium Water’s belief that sustainability extends beyond environmental responsibility to encompass social progress, inclusion and equal opportunity. Through ‘Fill Her Glass,’ the company highlighted the often-overlooked challenges faced by women and girls in communities where access to water is limited, and how the burden of water collection can affect education, livelihoods and quality of life.

At the heart of the campaign is the thought, ‘She fills the world, but her glass is empty.’ This powerful insight highlights that reliable access to water is about more than meeting an essential need. It can also give women and girls more time, freedom and opportunity to pursue their ambitions and shape their futures.

American Premium Water CEO Fayaz Fazal said: ‘Having pioneered bottled drinking water in Sri Lanka and led the industry for 30 years, we recognise that our responsibility goes beyond providing access to quality drinking water. Sustainability also means understanding the wider impact water has on people, communities and opportunity. Through ‘Fill Her Glass,’ we wanted to shine a light on the challenges faced by women and girls and encourage a more meaningful conversation about water access and equality. We are proud to see a campaign from Sri Lanka recognised on the Asian stage. This reinforces our commitment to using our brand and platform to champion causes that matter and contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future.’

The Dragons of Asia recognition adds to a strong run of accolades for American Premium Water’s recent marketing and communications initiatives. At the Dragons of Sri Lanka, the company secured four awards, including three Gold Dragons and one Black Dragon. It also won at SLIM Digis 2.6 in the category of Cross Media Integration.

The success of ‘Fill Her Glass’ reflects the collaborative efforts of American Premium Water and its communications partner, Shift Solutions, whose creativity and strategic partnership helped bring the campaign to life. Together, these accolades demonstrate American Premium Water’s focus on combining creative thinking, strategic communication and purpose to strengthen its brand while bringing important social and sustainability issues into the public conversation.

As a pioneer in Sri Lanka’s bottled water industry, American Premium Water continues to champion a broader understanding of sustainability, recognising the connection between access to essential resources, community wellbeing and a more equitable future.

The Cabinet of Ministers has approved awarding the contract to construct two wastewater treatment plants for the Welipenna service area on the Southern Expressway to the National Water Supply and Drainage Board (NWSDB), at an estimated cost of Rs. 562.04 million.

The service area is maintained by Canowin Hotels and Spas Ltd., a fully owned subsidiary of the Sri Lanka Insurance Corporation. It has been identified that the capacity of the existing wastewater treatment plants at the facility is insufficient.

The NWSDB examined the prevailing conditions at the site and submitted a report recommending the construction of two new treatment plants, each with a capacity of 200 cubic metres per day.

The proposal to this effect was submitted by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake in his capacity as the Finance, Planning and Economic Development Minister.