Category: Daily Financial Times

A young woman in Kandy wakes up to find her private photos shared once in trust with her partner, circulating through WhatsApp groups she had never even heard of. In Jaffna, a university student who dared to speak up about women’s rights and equality for all, receives a series of anonymous messages threatening him. A young graduate from Colombo, just weeks into his first job, becomes a target of relentless gender trolling owing to his preferred gender identity. An activist with a disability from Batticaloa, fighting for inclusion finds herself excluded, bullied and targeted with hate speech.

These stories represent people from all walks of life, but the violence that has followed them into the digital sphere, remains the same. It is swift, merciless and for the most part, anonymous. Cyberspace, where harm spreads fast with long-term consequences, enables perpetrators to hide behind their screens and keyboards, while survivors face backlash compelling them to suffer in silence. This is the reality of Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TFGBV).

The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) defines TFGBV as any form of gender-based harm or violence that is perpetrated, supported, or amplified through digital tools or technology by one or more individuals. This can happen on online platforms like social media, messaging apps, or websites, or through other technological means, even if they are not connected to the internet.

There is no doubt that technology is a great tool that connects people, empowers them with learning, opening a multitude of opportunities for all. Over time, advancements in technology have contributed to equality and progress across the world, enabling people to access comprehensive knowledge and skills at their fingertips.

However, for too many, including women, girls, and marginalised groups technology has exposed them to a new form of Gender-Based Violence (GBV), where stigma is weaponised against survivors more brutally than ever before. This brings me to the question, what exactly does TFGBV refer to?

A recent study by UNFPA and UN Women (2025) on TFGBV experienced by women, girls, LGBTQIA+ persons, and ethnic minorities in Sri Lanka involving communities across Colombo, Kandy, Ampara, Jaffna, and Galle, revealed that 56% of women and 62% of LGBTQI+ respondents felt unsafe online. Among the respondents, nearly one in three (29%) reported experiencing digital violence firsthand, while 12% reported experiencing TFGBV daily. A staggering 90% were of the belief that social media increases the risk of TFGBV.

What we must bear in mind is that behind each percentage is a person whose dignity was shattered in a space that should have been safe. These figures represent the national reality of digital violence unfolding in real time.

Technology-facilitated gender-based violence and adolescents

Teenagers are now online more than ever before. A decade ago, you would find children playing outside, in their own imaginary worlds. But today, the digital sphere is their playground. So much of their world is online: from friendships, playtime, and learning to even first love. What we must not forget is that these spaces are also flooded with misogyny, manipulation, misinformation, and fabricated content that distort reality and shape how young people see themselves.

Global research shows that girls encounter online harassment as early as 14, while new technologies like AI-generated deepfakes are increasingly used to target them. A study by Save the Children (2025), revealed that 40% of teenagers believe that sharing intimate images with their partners is normal. Such images often become tools of intimate partner violence, used to blackmail, extort and control girls.

Imagine being a 14-year-old girl threatened by someone who says they will share edited intimate photos of you in school uniform online if you don’t comply with their demands. Where do you turn? Who do you trust? And what happens when the adults who should protect you respond with blame rather than support? At the moment they need us most, many girls choose isolation and silence, because of stigma and the fear of being punished, judged, or having their phones taken away.

Data shows that the percentage of girls who feel comfortable with parents or guardians knowing what they do online drop from 84% at ages 9-11 to just 34% at ages 12-14 (Save the Children, 2025). Too often, our reactions to digital violence begin with ‘Why did you post that?’ or ‘Why did you take this photo?’ instead of ‘How can I help you?’ As a result, girls shrink themselves to survive harm they did not cause.

This is why we need to empower young people to protect themselves. This could be achieved by collective action across sectors including the government and parents to integrate digital literacy and online safety into school curricula; teaching consent, mutual respect, and healthy relationships; and having open, non-judgmental conversations focused on values, empathy, respect, kindness, and boundaries with adolescents and young people.

#OurDigitalSpace: End online violence for GBV-free Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is entering a rapidly evolving digital age, with over 12.4 million internet users, more than 29 million mobile connections, and 8.2 million social media identities recorded in early 2025. As digital access expands, so should our laws, norms, and public conversations. For many women and girls, already navigating domestic violence, workplace harassment, sexual violence, and abuse in public spaces including transport, the online sphere has become another space where harm continues.

The UNFPA and UN Women study on TFGBV (2025) across Colombo, Kandy, Ampara, Jaffna, and Galle in Sri Lanka, revealed an alarming spectrum of digital violence. Over a third of respondents (36.9%) had fake profiles created in their name, and the same proportion experienced the non-consensual sharing of intimate content. Nearly one in four (25.3%) reported being affected by deepfakes. Another 24.3% faced the unauthorised exposure of personal information as well as gender trolling. These forms of abuse show how deeply digital violence is reshaping the daily lives and safety of women, girls, and young people in Sri Lanka.

Survivors are faced with stigma, reputational fears, and victim-blaming that discourage them from seeking help. Gaps in legal protections and institutional capacity further limit people’s access to justice. In today’s world where the boundary between online and offline has almost disappeared, digital violence is no longer just a women’s issue. It is a national development priority.

Addressing TFGBV is integral to Sri Lanka’s commitments under the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), the National Action Plan II on Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), and Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Policy to realise Sustainable Development Goal 5 on Gender Equality.

While Sri Lanka possesses foundational legislation, such as Section 345 of the Penal Code, which criminalises sexual harassment, there is a critical requirement to strengthen these laws to explicitly cover TFGBV. This legislative reinforcement is essential and urgent, given the country’s contemporary digital landscape and the increasing prevalence of associated online risks.

Sri Lanka also has a growing community of people who refuse to look away. Survivors rebuilding their lives, parents choosing to listen, teachers guiding with care, men and boys stepping up, and leaders willing to act.

Among them, Sri Lanka’s women in leadership across sectors, as well as the Women Parliamentarian’s Caucus have played a vital role in pushing digital safety, survivor protection, and online accountability into national policy discussions.

At UNFPA, we are committed to engaging with the government, civil society, private sector, and tech companies to strengthen the prevention, protection and response mechanisms, as well as to implement comprehensive legal provisions to address TFGBV. We also recognise the vital role of parents, caregivers, and teachers as essential partners in this effort. By creating safe and trusting environments, where young people feel heard and supported, they form the first and most important line of protection against online violence.

A whole-of-society approach is essential to address this new form of violence. This ranges from having honest, open conversations in our homes, to introducing clearer legal definitions for digital abuse, enabling survivor-centred reporting pathways, implementing faster content-takedown procedures, and strengthening institutional capacities to respond effectively to online violence. Together, we can ensure that every person, including women and girls, can navigate digital spaces safely for an inclusive Sri Lanka.

This year’s 16 days of activism against gender-based violence calls on us to reclaim #OurDigitalSpace, a space that belongs not to perpetrators, but to changemakers from all walks of life seeking connections, opportunities, and resilience. A space where young girls deserve to grow without fear; where men and women alike pursue their aspirations; a space that reflects an inclusive and GBV free Sri Lanka, leaving no one behind.

World number one Jeeno Thitikul defended her title at the season-ending CME Group Tour Championship by holding off fellow Thai Pajaree Anannarukarn by four shots.

The 22-year-old fired a four-under-par 68 to finish on 26-under in Florida and secure the $ 4 million (£ 3.1 million) winner’s prize, along with the LPGA player of the year award and Vare Trophy for season low-scoring average.

With her victory at Tiburon Golf Club, Thitikul became only the second player to win back-to-back LPGA Tour Championship titles – matching South Korea’s Ko Jin-young, who triumphed in 2020 and 2021.

Thitikul had started the day six shots clear but had her lead cut to two as compatriot Pajaree, the last qualifier in the 60-player field, made birdies on her first three holes as well as the sixth and seventh.

However, the leader recovered in the $ 11 million (£ 8.4 million) event with an important birdie on the back nine to improve her advantage to five shots.

Pajaree then made bogey at the par-three 12th and Thitikul birdied the 13th to reach 25-under.

Birdies at 16 and 17 followed for Pajaree, but Thitikul sealed her success with a birdie on the 18th.

Cargills Bank yesterday announced its results for the nine months ended 30 September 2025, reflecting an increase of Rs. 155 million in profitability when compared to the corresponding period in 2024 posting a profit after tax (PAT) of Rs. 313 million.

In a statement the Bank said Net interest income of Rs. 2,743 million was a 10% increase of Rs. 244 million in the nine months period compared with the corresponding period of 2024. Despite the low interest regime that prevailed, commendable 31% growth in loan book coupled with continued focus on repricing of deposits and advances to reflect the market conditions to manage the NIM in an optimal manner resulted in the aforesaid growth in NII. The marginal reduction in NIM was due to the gradual reduction in market interest rates in line with the CBSL policy directions.

Net fee and commission income of Rs. 682 million for the nine months ended 30 September recorded Rs. 60 million growth in comparison with the corresponding period in 2024. Concerted efforts to improve trade volumes, loan related fee income, card related fee income and improved remittance income were among the main contributory factors for this growth of 10% recorded.

Capital gains realised on derecognition of financial assets and net gains from financial assets at fair value through profit or loss reduced by Rs. 142 million and Rs. 161 million to reach Rs. 361 million and Rs. 80 million, respectively in the nine-month period of 2025. Consequently, total other income for the nine-month period of 2025 decreased by Rs. 307 million or 38% when compared to 2024 to reach Rs. 501 million.

Total operating expenses increased by 14% from Rs. 2,431 million in corresponding period of 2024 to Rs. 2,761 million in the nine-month period of 2025. Personnel expenses increased by 15% due to increase in the cadre coupled with revision in salary to reflect market conditions. Other operating expenses grew by 15% due to increase in the branch network, marketing and other administrative expenses including professional charges. The bank’s Cost-to-Income Ratio of 70.31% reflected an increase from 58.23% in 2024 mainly due to the above cost

escalations.

Subsequent to a careful scrutiny of the status of borrowers and considering the improved macro-economic environment and results of recovery actions, impairment charges totalling Rs. 162 million reflected a decrease of 80% from Rs. 811 million in the nine-month period of 2024 . The Bank’s Stage 3 Loans (Net of Stage 3 Impairment) to Total Loans Ratio stood at 7.55% as Page 2 of 17 of 30 September 2025 Vs 8.74% as of 30 September 2024 whilst Stage 3 Provision Cover was 44.78% as of 30 September 2025.

The Bank maintains Capital Adequacy and Liquid Assets Ratios well within the minimum requirements prescribed by the Central Bank. The Total Capital Ratio stood at 17.08% while all liquidity related ratios were within the regulatory minimum requirements.

Total assets of the bank as of 30 September at Rs. 88.5 billion reflected an increase of Rs. 8.2 billion or 10% during the nine-month period of 2025. The loan book posted a steady growth of Rs. 14.3 billion or 31%, from Rs. 46.1 billion to Rs. 60.4 billion, witnessing the commendable performance of our frontline. Financial assets measured at fair value through other comprehensive income decreased by Rs. 5.9 billion or 26% to reach Rs. 16.5 billion, partly reallocating its proceeds to fund the loan book growth in response to increased credit demand. Fair value through other comprehensive income reserve dropped to Rs. 223 million as of 30 September on realisation of part of gains in profit or loss and unwinding of another portion in approaching maturity. Customer deposits increased by 5% to reach Rs. 62.5 billion at the reporting date from Rs. 59.4 billion at the end 2024.

FT Quick take

Profit before Income Tax was Rs. 620 m, an increase of Rs. 235 m

Net fee and commission income grow by Rs. 60 m

Bank remains well capitalised and liquid

Total Capital Ratio at 17.08%

Liquidity Coverage Ratio, Rupee at 195.57% and All Currency at 159.90%

Net Stable Funding Ratio at 125.06%

Total Assets grow by Rs. 8.2 b

Loan book as of 30 September 2025 at Rs. 60.4 b; 31% growth of Rs. 14.3 b

VFS Global has associated with the historic 1st Women’s T20 World Cup – Cricket for the Blind 2025, a first-of-its-kind global tournament celebrating the talent, resilience, and sporting spirit of blind women cricketers from around the world.

The event, organised by the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI) – the cricketing arm of the Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled – and co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, marks a pivotal moment for women’s sports and disability inclusion. The tournament brought together six nations in a significant step toward greater visibility, equality, and recognition for women with visual impairments.

As part of its continued commitment to empowering women and fostering inclusive communities, VFS Global was honoured to be associated with the tournament. This association reflects the company’s long-standing belief in creating opportunities – both within the organisation and beyond – that enable women to thrive, lead, and inspire.

VFS Global Chief Operating Officer – South Asia Yummi Talwar said, ‘The Blind Women’s T20 Cricket World Cup stands for courage, determination, and the power of opportunity. We are humbled to be associated with an initiative that champions inclusion at a global scale. I extend heartfelt congratulations to the winners and all the participating teams for their inspiring performances. Their achievements remind us of what is possible when opportunity meets courage. At VFS Global, empowering women and advancing inclusion remain at the heart of our commitment, whether within our organisation or through our community partnerships.’

VFS Global Chief Operating Officer – South Asia Yummi Talwar handing over medals to the runner-up team – Nepal

CABI Chairman and Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled Founder Managing Trustee Mahantesh G. K., said: ‘We are sincerely grateful to VFS Global for partnering with us in this milestone event. Their support strengthens our mission of elevating blind women’s cricket on the world stage. We look forward to building this into a long-term, global partnership – one that drives meaningful opportunities, deeper visibility, and a truly inclusive sporting future for women with visual impairments.’

VFS Global’s Corporate Social Responsibility programs across regions continue to drive impact by enabling empowerment, enhancing access to opportunities, and fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.

The company congratulates the champions and all the participating teams for making history and inspiring future generations of women in sports.

Sampath Bank PLC is advancing a major national milestone through the commencement of the pilot phase of Sri Lanka’s Bus Fare Digitalisation Project, implemented in collaboration with Ceylon Business Appliances Ltd., and Nimbus Venture Ltd. The solution is being introduced through NCG Express, one of the country’s leading private bus operators, enabling commuters to make seamless digital fare payments and supporting the nation’s transition towards a modern transport environment.

The initiative delivers a fully integrated digital fare collection system that allows passengers to settle fares through contactless bank cards supported by Visa, Mastercard, UnionPay and JCB enhancing convenience, strengthening payment security and contributing to a more efficient and transparent commuter experience. The pilot phase aims to validate operational readiness ahead of wider expansion across private and public bus fleets.

Sampath Bank Assistant General Manager – Advanced Analytics and Card Centre Darshin Pathinayake said, ‘This initiative reflects our long-standing commitment to advancing national digital progress, as it enhances commuter convenience, strengthens fare collection efficiency and supports Sri Lanka’s journey towards a secure and inclusive cashless transport ecosystem.’

The project has been developed in accordance with the guidelines issued by the Transport, Highways, Ports and Civil Aviation Ministry on bus fare collection using bank cards, ensuring alignment with the Government’s priority of establishing a bank-led and interoperable digital payment infrastructure for the public transport sector.

As the certified Ticketing Application and Electronic Ticket Issuing Machine (ETIM) provider, Ceylon Business Appliances strengthens the reliability of the system through robust hardware and secure software capabilities built on more than five decades of Payments and FinTech expertise. Director/Chief Executive Officer Ruwath Fernando said, ‘Our commitment to delivering dependable ETIM technology and a seamless ticketing application remains central to this initiative, as it supports accurate fare acceptance, real-time information and overall system reliability, enabling a smoother, more efficient and commuter-friendly experience.’

Nimbus Venture functions as the system integrator responsible for backend connectivity, real-time processing and system stability. Director and Chief Technology Officer Dayan Jayasekara said, ‘Integrated, secure and transparent digital systems form the backbone of effective fare collection, and through Yaman Buddy we are powering Sri Lanka’s shift towards smarter, connected travel. Our focus remains on enabling strong operational continuity across the transport network as we help shape the future of public transport.’

NCG Express becomes the first operator to introduce the solution across its fleet, setting the stage for wider adoption across the transport sector. NCG Express Chairman Nikitha Grero said, ‘As a leader in the transport industry in Sri Lanka, we are committed to transforming its landscape and supporting digitalisation efforts for national development. As the first operator to introduce this solution across our fleet, passengers can now benefit from a convenient, seamless, and future-ready payment method, making travelling easier for all. We look forward to driving wider collaboration across the transport industry in the future as well, facilitating seamless, convenient travel island wide.’

Through this initiative, Sampath Bank continues to serve communities by supporting impactful technological progress that enhances daily life and strengthens Sri Lanka’s long-term digital transformation.

Sri Lanka’s Inland Revenue Department (IRD) has exceeded Rs. 2 trillion in revenue for the first time, Commissioner General Rukdevi Fernando announced at a media briefing on Monday (24).

The Government’s Medium Term Debt Management Strategy 2026-2030 report warns that refinancing pressure is heavily concentrated in the domestic debt portfolio, even as external debt obligations appear more spread-out following restructuring.

The report compiled by the Public Debt Management Office said the composition and maturity structure of domestic liabilities present the most immediate risks to liquidity and rollover management, despite improving market conditions.

Sri Lanka’s total Government debt stood at Rs. 30.8 trillion at end June 2025. Domestic debt accounts for 64% of the total, while external debt makes up the remaining 36%.

The debt to GDP ratio has fallen to 99.1 % in 2024 from 114.2% in 2022 due to restructuring and revenue driven fiscal consolidation under the IMF program.

The PDMO highlighted the size of short-term domestic instruments as a key vulnerability.

Treasury Bill stocks are estimated at Rs. 3.6 trillion at end 2025 and will come due in 2026.

‘This concentration of short-term maturities underscores the need for effective revenue and cash flow management,’ the PDMO said. Treasury Bill stocks were Rs. 4.09 trillion and Rs. 4.07 trillion at the beginning of 2024 and 2025 respectively and were refinanced.

Treasury Bonds dominate the broader domestic redemption profile, with maturities peaking at Rs. 2.15 trillion in 2028. Issuance shifted to short term maturities following the 2022 crisis, leading to a cluster of redemptions between 2027 and 2033.

The PDMO said investor appetite has begun to move back toward medium- and long-term maturities in the second quarter of 2025, reflecting improved market stability.

According to the PDMO, 12% of the total debt stock of Rs. 30.8 trillion comprises T-Bills and 48% is in T-Bonds as of September 2025.

‘The shorter average time to maturity and the higher proportion of debt maturing within one year in the domestic segment present clear rollover risks,’ the PDMO said. It added that efforts are underway to lengthen maturities and improve the structure of domestic liabilities.

In contrast, external debt shows lower near-term risk due to restructuring with the Official Creditor Committee and the China Exim Bank. Repayments have been smoothed across future years.

Sri Lanka has received capital grace periods until 2028, reduced interest rates and amortising repayment structures with final payments on restructured debt extending to 2043. The restructuring of international sovereign bonds extended average maturities by around six years.

Foreign currency debt accounts for 37.8% of total Government debt. Most is denominated in US dollars, with smaller shares in Japanese yen, Chinese Yuan and SDRs. The PDMO said exchange rate management, hedging and reserve build-up remain central to reducing FX risk.

The strategy for 2026 to 2030 sets out a shift toward deeper domestic financing.

The Government aims for 90% of borrowing to come from domestic sources by 2030, reducing domestic financing by 5% annually to balance domestic and external exposure in preparation for post 2030 external repayments.

The PDMO said it will also explore Samurai, Panda, Sukuk and syndicated loans while maintaining concessional borrowing where possible.

On the domestic market, benchmark maturities of 5, 8, 10, 12 and 15 years will be reopened and new maturities introduced. Inflation linked and other innovative instruments will support smoother refinancing.

The PDMO said it will widen the investor base and strengthen the primary and secondary markets for Government securities as part of its domestic bond market development plan.

Liability management operations will target refinancing risk and debt servicing costs across both domestic and external portfolios.

‘We intend to manage the structure and risk profile of the existing portfolio proactively, including the use of currency swaps to reduce external currency risk,’ the PDMO said.

The PDMO also plans to enhance transparency with upgraded debt bulletins, semi-annual data reports and a dedicated website. A monthly auction calendar will support predictable issuance.

While the MTDS offers a medium-term framework, the PDMO cautioned that data gaps, macroeconomic uncertainty, exchange rate volatility and a shallow domestic market continue to impact debt management.

It said improved coordination among fiscal, monetary and economic agencies is required to ensure consistency across policy fronts.

The PDMO said the strategy aims to strengthen debt sustainability by extending maturities, reducing short term debt and lowering the interest payment to revenue ratio. It added that effective implementation will be essential to maintaining stability and investor confidence over the next five years.

Sri Lanka’s external debt service profile over the next four years reflects rising obligations. Debt service in 2025 totals $ 2.45 billion, comprising $ 1.4 billion in principal and $ 1 billion in interest.

In 2026, scheduled payments amount to $ 1.2 billion million in principal and $ 931 million in interest. For 2027, repayments include $ 1.2 billion in principal and $ 893 million in interest. Obligations increase in 2028, when $ 2.13 billion in principal and $ 974 million in interest fall due.

Sri Lanka took a major leap forward in its digital transformation journey as the sixth edition of SLASSCOM’s AI Asia Summit 2025 concluded in Colombo, signalling the country’s growing role as a regional hub for applied AI and innovation. This year’s theme, ‘AI in Action’, made it clear that the country is moving beyond discussion to deployment-shaping use cases, capability, and policy around real-world impact.Welcoming over 400 participants, 31 global and regional speakers, and 18 high-impact sessions, the Summit delivered deep insights into how AI is transforming economies, industries, and national competitiveness across Asia.

A breakthrough for Sri Lanka’s deep-tech ecosystem: Xavier robotics launch

One of the most defining moments was the unveiling of Xavier, Sri Lanka’s first fully conceived and engineered AI-driven robotics platform, built by Xavier AI. The platform demonstrates the growing maturity of the country’s AI talent and proves that Sri Lanka can innovate at global deep-tech standards.

Xavier’s launch marked Sri Lanka’s transition from being an adopter to a creator of frontier technologies in robotics, automation, and intelligent systems-reinforcing the country’s positioning as an AI innovation hub.

Policy leadership converges with technology vision

A highlight of the Summit was the presence of senior policymakers and technologists shaping digital

transformation across the region.

Key figures included:

India’s Electronics and IT Ministry Secretary Shri S. Krishnan

Digital Economy Ministry Deputy Minister Eng. Eranga Weeraratne

Chief Adviser to the President on Digital Economy Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya

Wadhwani Centre for Government Digital Transformation CEO Prakash Kumar

Prakash Kumar’s opening keynote set the strategic tone for the Summit, highlighting AI’s pivotal role in reshaping governance, accelerating service delivery, and enabling cross-border innovation. A post-event roundtable on Healthcare AI, chaired by Google’s Dr. Rukshan Batuwita, convened clinicians,

regulators, and industry leaders to map early pathways for responsible AI deployment in Sri Lanka’s healthcare system. SLASSCOM Chairperson Shehani Seneviratne said: ‘AI Asia Summit 2025 demonstrated not just the potential of AI, but the determination of Sri Lanka’s tech ecosystem to lead, innovate, and shape the future. The energy and expertise showcased this year reaffirm that we are firmly on the path to becoming a regional powerhouse and AI innovation hub.’

With growing momentum, Sri Lanka is positioning itself as a future-ready, innovation-driven economy-one where AI becomes a driver of growth, competitiveness, and national transformation.

Pan Asia Bank joins Deepal to drive green leasing in Sri LankaPan Asia Banking Corporation PLC has entered into a strategic partnership with Prime EV Automobiles, the authorised representative of the Deepal electric vehicle brand in Sri Lanka.

This collaboration was formalised through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at promoting eco-friendly leasing solutions, such as Pan Asia Bank’s EV Plus, and accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles across the country. This initiative underscores Pan Asia Bank’s dedication to driving Sri Lanka’s green transition by making sustainable mobility more accessible and affordable.

The partnership enables customers of Prime EV Automobiles to enjoy exclusive leasing facilities from Pan Asia Bank when purchasing electric vehicles, making EV ownership more accessible, affordable, and convenient. Through this collaboration, Pan Asia Bank aims to further strengthen its position as a pioneer in green leasing, supporting the country’s transition toward cleaner energy and sustainable transport solutions.

Pan Asia Bank Director/CEO Naleen Edirisinghe said: ‘As a bank deeply committed to sustainability, we are proud to join hands with Prime EV Automobiles to support Sri Lankans to make the shift towards electric mobility. Our specialised leasing solutions are designed to make EV ownership easier while helping customers contribute to a greener tomorrow.’

With this partnership, customers can look forward to customised leasing packages for Prime EV’s range of electric vehicles, supported by streamlined financing processes and value-added services. The collaboration also reinforces Pan Asia Bank’s broader vision of becoming the country’s most eco-conscious financial partner through innovative green lending and leasing programs.

Sri Lanka earned $ 1.29 billion from tea exports in the ten months to October 2025, according to Sri Lanka Customs data analysed by Forbes and Walker Research.

Earnings were higher than the $ 1.18 billion recorded in the same period last year, reflecting an increase of around 9%.

On this revenue base, the approximate FOB value works out to $ 5.86 per kg, marginally above the $ 5.84 per kg recorded in 2024.

Sri Lanka exported 21.88 Mnkg of tea in October 2025, up from 20.79 Mnkg in October 2024. The increase of 1.09 Mnkg was supported by higher shipments of tea packets and tea bags, while bulk tea, instant tea and green tea posted year-on-year declines.

The average FOB value for October was Rs. 1,752.65 per kg, compared with Rs. 1,791.78 a year earlier. In dollar terms, the October FOB fell by $ 0.32.

For the period January-October 2025, cumulative exports rose to 220.21 Mnkg, up 17.06 Mnkg compared with 203.15 Mnkg in the corresponding period of 2024. All major export categories except bulk tea recorded positive variances.

The cumulative FOB value averaged Rs. 1,754.28 per kg, down Rs. 20.70 from last year’s Rs. 1,774.98. In USD terms, this represented an increase of $ 0.02.

Bulk and packed teas recorded lower FOB values in rupee terms. Tea bags, instant tea and green tea posted gains in rupee terms, while in dollar terms, all categories except bulk and packed tea recorded increases over the previous year.

Iraq remained the leading buyer of Ceylon Tea, importing 33.88 Mnkg in the January-October period, up 25% from 27.10 Mnkg last year. Russia ranked second with 18.40 Mnkg despite an 11% year-on-year decline, followed by Trkiye with 17.73 Mnkg, a 20% increase.

Libya recorded one of the sharpest expansions, importing 17.40 Mnkg up 134% from 7.42 Mnkg last year. Chile purchased 9.53 Mnkg, up 35% year-on-year, while Iran imported 9.4 Mnkg, an 8% increase. China imported 8.73 Mnkg, followed by Azerbaijan and Saudi Arabia at 7.54 Mnkg and 7.31 Mnkg respectively.

Trustee, former Team Manager,Secretary, and Vice President of Kandy Sports Club Leslie De Soysa passed away in Australia recently. He served the Kandy SC in various capacities since 1970 for over five decades.

His funeral took place in Brisbane, Australia.