Bawumia, Haruna Lead NPP, NDC Race

A new poll conducted by Global Info Analytics has pegged former Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and current Education Minister, Haruna Iddrisu as favourites to lead the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) into the 2028 general election.

According to the poll released yesterday, 57 percent of Ghanaians prefer former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, to lead the NPP into the 2028 general election while Haruna Iddrisu narrowly leads with 27 percent of voter preference for the NDC.

Bawumia’s Popularity

The poll, via the organisation’s official social media platforms, confirms Dr. Bawumia as the most popular candidate among the general electorate, leading his closest contender, former Assin Central Member of Parliament (MP) Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, who garnered 29 percent support.

According to the data, Dr. Bawumia enjoys a commanding lead across various regions, underscoring his broad national appeal. However, the survey also notes a recent dip in his support among NPP delegates, raising questions about internal party dynamics ahead of the flagbearer selection.

Other notable contenders trail far behind. Former Education Minister Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum secured 6 percent, Food and Agriculture Minister Dr. Bryan Acheampong polled 5 percent while former NPP General Secretary Kwabena Agyepong received 3 percent support.

In key swing regions like Greater Accra, Central, and Western, Dr. Bawumia remains dominant, with 57 percent of respondents backing him, Kennedy Agyapong follows with 32 percent, with both Dr. Adutwum and Dr. Bryan Acheampong garnering 4 percent each, while Kwabena Agyepong obtained 3 percent.

The poll further explored a hypothetical runoff between Bawumia and Agyapong. In this head-to-head scenario, Bawumia extended his lead, winning 62 percent of the projected vote compared to Agyapong’s 38 percent.

Despite some slippage in support among party delegates, Agyapong has yet to capitalise. The survey suggests that the Vice President’s losses have not translated into significant gains for his closest rival. Instead, a notable portion of delegates appear to be moving into the undecided category.

According to some analysts, the poll reflect both Bawumia’s enduring popularity among the general public and growing uncertainty within the party’s internal structures. Global Info Analytics highlighted this divergence as a key issue as the NPP prepares for its 2028 flagbearer race.

Among NPP delegates, Dr. Bawumia still holds a clear lead with 47 percent, while Agyapong trails at 17 percent with Dr. Acheampong and Dr. Adutwum each securing 3 percent and 1 percent respectively, while Kwabena Agyepong also polled 1 percent.

It however emerged from the poll that a significant 27 percent of delegates remain undecided, while 4 percent declined to state their preference, adding that in a possible runoff among delegates, Bawumia’s support ticks up slightly to 49 percent, compared to Agyapong’s 19 percent, as 27 percent remain undecided, and 5 percent chose not to reveal their vote.

NDC’s Close Contest

In the race to succeed President John Dramani Mahama as leader of the National Democratic Congress, Mr. Iddrisu is followed closely by Asiedu Nketia at 26 percent, Dr. Ato Forson with 22 percent, while Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, registers 11 percent.

The Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, polls at 8 percent, Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings 4 percent, and other contenders share the remaining 3 percent.

The results reflect a surge for Mr. Asiedu Nketia compared to earlier April findings, while Mr. Haruna Iddrisu has managed to maintain his early advantage.

Among declared NDC voters, Mr. Iddrisu widens his lead slightly with 31 percent support, compared to Mr. Asiedu’s 24 percent and Dr. Ato Forson’s 22 percent. Messrs Julius Debrah, Ablakwa, and Dr. Zanetor all remain in single digits.

The poll also reveals how voting blocs break differently depending on party affiliation and past choices.

A majority of New Patriotic Party voters surveyed favour Asiedu Nketia (32 percent), with Haruna (22 percent) and Forson (20 percent) trailing.

Among those who voted for President John Mahama in the 2024 elections, Haruna Iddrisu draws 30 percent support, Dr. Ato Forson 24 percent, and Asiedu Nketia 22 percent. Ablakwa and Dr. Zanetor attract 8 percent and 3 percent respectively.

Among respondents who did not disclose their 2024 vote, Haruna maintains 30 percent backing, Forson 24 percent, and Asiedu 15 percent, while Debrah and Ablakwa poll 10 and 12 percent respectively.

Dr. Zanetor attracts 5 percent in this group. For those who did not vote in 2024, Asiedu leads with 23 percent, Haruna secures 19 percent, and Forson and Debrah both stand at 18 percent. Ablakwa draws 15 percent, while Dr. Zanetor garners 5 percent.

When narrowed to core NDC voters who backed Mahama in 2024, Haruna’s dominance is clearer – 31 percent to Forson’s 24 percent and Asiedu’s 22 percent.

However, among NDC voters who did not disclose their 2024 preference, Forson and Ablakwa perform better, drawing 18 and 13 percent respectively, compared to Haruna’s 24 percent and Asiedu’s 16 percent.

Among NDC voters who abstained in 2024, Haruna commands 28 percent, Asiedu 26 percent, while Debrah rises to 19 percent.

Beyond personalities, the poll also measured overall party attractiveness. It found that the NDC continues to gain ground nationally, with 44 percent of voters openly identifying with the party, which represents an increase from 42 percent in April 2025.

By contrast, the NPP’s support has slipped, now standing at 30 percent, down from 32 percent in April.

The survey covered 10,493 respondents across 84 constituencies through a combination of online, telephone, and in-person interviews conducted between May and June 2025. The overall margin of error is estimated at ±1.23 percent with a 99 percent confidence level.

Taken together, the findings suggest that while Haruna Iddrisu retains a narrow overall lead, Asiedu Nketia’s recent surge and Ato Forson’s steady showing among Mahama loyalists make the NDC’s succession race far from settled.

Suspected ‘Witch’ Crash- Lands On Avocado Tree

RESIDENTS OF Afasiebon near Kwadaso Agric Nzema, a suburb of Kumasi, woke up to the weird news of a suspected ‘witch’ crash-landing on top of an avocado tree in the area.

According to some community members, they heard a loud bang in the area in the early hours of yesterday when residents of the community were asleep in their rooms.

Later on, they disclosed that they also heard dogs barking under a tree, sparking suspicion. When the residents got closer, they said they spotted a woman perching on the tree.

According to them, the woman was looking very weak, an indication that perhaps she may have fallen from the sky and accidentally landed on top of the tall avocado tree.

A sea of curious people in Afasiebon and nearby communities rushed to the scene to catch a glimpse of the woman, who was said to be looking confused.

Later on, a joint operation between the police and some community members helped to bring down the woman from the top of the tree, using a tall ladder.

According to reports, some of the agitated youth in the community attempted to manhandle her, but she was shielded by the policemen.

The woman, whose face was covered with a cloth to hide her identity, was whisked in a waiting police car to the station.

Sigma Partners Ghana TVET To Bridge Skills Gap

Platinum Impex Limited, operating under the brand Sigma Appliances, has announced a strategic partnership with the Ghana TVET Service to launch ‘Sigma for TVET’, a long-term programme designed to bridge the country’s skills gap in modern electrical and domestic-appliance technologies.

The initiative will equip technicians with practical, industry-relevant skills and create direct pathways from training into internships and employment.

Built around three interlocking pillars – upgrading TVET infrastructure, strengthening instructor capacity, and facilitating employment pathways – the programme aims to deliver a sustained, systemic contribution to Ghana’s technical and vocational education sector.

Selected TVET institutions will be fitted with purpose-built Sigma Tech-Ready Labs, containing a full range of modern appliances, diagnostic equipment, and workshop resources to give learners hands-on experience with the systems they will encounter in the workplace.

Complementing the physical infrastructure, a rigorous Train-the-Trainer programme will upskill instructors in the latest technologies and competency-based approaches, ensuring the new facilities are used to their full potential.

A dedicated Sigma apprenticeship and job placement pathway will also offer high-performing graduates practical industry placements and clear recruitment opportunities within Sigma’s nationwide service and retail network.

The initiative is expected to raise the quality and employability of technical graduates, enhance after-sales and maintenance standards across the country, and contribute to Ghana’s broader economic development by fostering an adaptable, industry-ready workforce.

‘This initiative is not merely a corporate social responsibility project; it is a strategic investment in Ghana’s technical future,’ said Ahmad Taan, General Manager at Platinum Impex Limited.

‘Sigma has long been present in Ghanaian homes. Through this partnership with the Ghana TVET Service, we are committed to developing the skilled workforce that will install, maintain, and service the appliances of tomorrow, and to ensuring our support has a sustainable, system-wide impact,’ he added.

Director-General of the Ghana TVET Service, Eng. Dr. Eric Adzroe, welcomed the collaboration.

‘This partnership exemplifies how private-sector engagement can deliver tangible benefits for students and strengthen the national economy. It aligns with our mandate to provide demand-driven skills and to make TVET an attractive, viable career pathway for Ghanaian young people,’ he said.

Marie D. Sam, Marketing Manager at Platinum Impex Limited, added, ‘From January 2026, for every Sigma Appliance purchased, consumers will be contributing to the Sigma for TVET initiative.’

‘This programme is built on a model of sustainable shared commitment and collaboration, bringing together the private sector, government institutions, and consumers to ensure a lasting impact. By choosing a Sigma appliance, consumers are not only selecting a quality and affordable product but are also participating directly in building Ghana’s technical future,’ he stated.

A Triumph For Botswana, A Victory For Africa

As Botswana marks its 59th Independence Anniversary today, September 30, 2025, the nation is already awash in jubilation. The streets may be quiet, with Botswanans retreating to their villages to celebrate with kith and kin, but the air hums with pride and possibility.

This euphoria stems not only from the upcoming national milestone but also from a historic triumph that has reverberated across the continent. Botswana’s men’s 4x400m relay team (Lee Bhekempilo, Letsile Tebogo, Bayapo Ndori, and Busang Collen Kebinatshipi) secured Africa’s first-ever gold medal in this event at the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.

This victory is no small feat. For decades, the United States, with its population of 350 million, has dominated the men’s 4x400m relay, clinching the last ten editions of the championship. Yet, from ‘small Botswana’ – a nation of just 2.4 million people – emerged a team of gallant runners who defied the odds. They outran not only the Americans but also formidable competitors like neighboring South Africa, with its 63 million citizens.

In a David-and-Goliath moment, these athletes proved that neither the size of one’s country nor the location of one’s address can stand in the way of greatness. Their triumph is a beacon of hope, a testament to African resilience, and a clarion call for unity across our diverse continent.

The Trans Africa Tourism and Unity Campaign, which I am honored to lead, arrived in Botswana on Saturday, September 28, 2025, as the 11th stop on our 163-day, 40,000-kilometer road journey across 39 African nations.

orsed by several African governments, our mission is to promote intra-African tourism, advocate for a visa-free policy for all African nationals, and foster a united Africa where borders do not divide but connect us.

From Togo to Namibia, we have witnessed the power of shared dreams and collective action, engaging government officials, diplomats, the media, and communities in a vision aligned with Agenda 2063.

In Botswana, we found a nation in celebration, not only of its sporting heroes but also of its enduring spirit. President Duma Boko, in a gesture of national pride, declared a paid day off to honor the relay team’s historic victory, setting the stage for the Independence Day festivities.

Despite the long holiday, with many Botswanans away in their villages, the Government of Botswana has exemplified Pan-African solidarity by arranging for the Minister for Presidential Affairs, Moeti Mohwasa – a very senior cabinet Minister – to receive our delegation. We are deeply grateful for this warm welcome and looked forward to a productive meeting to discuss how Botswana’s leadership in sustainable tourism and regional integration can amplify our campaign’s goals.

Botswana’s story-its rich cultural heritage, its stewardship of natural wonders like the Okavango Delta, and now its athletic prowess-mirrors the aspirations of our campaign. Just as the relay team showed that small nations can achieve monumental victories, we believe that a united Africa, free of visa barriers, can unlock boundless opportunities for tourism, trade, and cultural exchange.

Botswana, with its forward-thinking governance and commitment to African unity, is poised to lead this charge.

As we celebrate Botswana’s independence and its recent triumphs, let us also celebrate the broader African spirit- one that dares to dream, competes without fear, and embraces unity as strength. The Trans Africa Tourism and Unity Campaign calls on all Africans to rally behind this vision. Let us make our continent a place where every citizen can travel freely, where every nation’s story is shared, and where every victory, like Botswana’s, belongs to us all.

Kuuku Bartels Retained As Chairman Of U19 Boys Management Committee

PRESIDENT OF VICTORY Club Warriors, Kuuku Bartels, has been retained as Chairman of the U19 Boys Management Committee, a decision that underscores the Ghana Football Association’s commitment to continuity and experienced leadership in youth football.

Bartels is widely recognised for his proactive approach to football administration in Ghana. Over the years, he has played a key role in advancing youth development initiatives and creating pathways for promising young players across the country.

He will be deputised by Enoch Agyare Addo, Administrative Manager of Dreams FC, who has earned a strong reputation in Ghanaian football for his sharp managerial skills and unwavering dedication to nurturing young talent.

The committee also includes Kwadwo Ohene, Haruna Suale, and Zulyadaini Bawa. Suale, currently Team Manager of Steadfast FC, and Bawa, President of Techiman Liberty FC, bring extensive experience and expertise to the group, strengthening its capacity to deliver on its mandate.

The U19 Boys Management Committee is tasked with scouting, grooming, and managing emerging footballers while overseeing competitions and development programs at the U19 level.

Its work forms part of the GFA’s broader strategy to sustain Ghana’s reputation as a breeding ground for football excellence.

Asante Kotoko Edge Kwara United To Seal CAF Confederation Cup Progress

ASANTE KOTOKO kept their flawless start to the 2025/26 CAF Confederation Cup alive with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Nigeria’s Kwara United in Abeokuta on Sunday.

The Porcupine Warriors travelled with a narrow 4-3 advantage from the first leg in Accra and produced a disciplined performance to finish the tie on top.

After a tense first half with few clear chances, striker Hubert Gyau broke the deadlock, netting the decisive goal that sealed a 5-3 aggregate win for the Ghana Premier League side.

The victory books Kotoko a second-round showdown with Moroccan giants Wydad Athletic Club, setting up what promises to be one of the competition’s most exciting fixtures.

The clash will pit Karim Zito’s side against one of Africa’s most seasoned continental campaigners.

For head coach Zito, the result added to a remarkable personal record. The former Dreams FC manager is now unbeaten in eight away matches in the Confederation Cup, underlining both his tactical acumen and Kotoko’s growing resilience on the road.

United Motors debuts all-new 2025 Mitsubishi lineup in Sri Lanka

United Motors, the exclusive distributor for Mitsubishi Motors in Sri Lanka for over four decades, has announced the arrival of the versatile 2025 Mitsubishi range. The lineup, which includes 4 Mid-Range SUVs, the formidable Triton double cab, and the efficient Attrage sedan, was officially unveiled at a special event at Hyde Park Corner, marking a significant milestone for the company.

The 2025 models feature a modern, aerodynamic design and advanced, fuel-efficient engines across the range. The showcase spotlights the robust Mitsubishi family, with a special highlight on the dynamic all-new Outlander Sport.

Spotlight on new arrival: All-new Outlander Sport

Blending aggressive style with versatile performance, the Outlander Sport is designed for the urban explorer. It features a bold new design language, an advanced infotainment system with smartphone integration, and a suite of Mitsubishi’s latest safety technologies, making every journey both connected and secure.

‘The arrival of this new 2025 range energises our commitment to delivering not just vehicles, but confidence and unforgettable experiences,’ said United Motors Group CEO/Executive Director Chanaka Yatawara. ‘We support every Mitsubishi with our best-in-class after-sales service across eight locations nationwide, ensuring peace of mind for every owner.’

The 2025 lineup presents a comprehensive portfolio for every need. Which features the versatile mid-range SUVs, including the Expander, Expander Cross, and Eclipse Cross, alongside the high-end range of the Outlander and Montero Sport. The range is complemented by the Triton double cab, renowned for its robust suspension and comfortable, well-appointed interior, and the stylish Attrage sedan. Each model is renowned for its outstanding performance, reliability, and exceptional value.

We invite customers and enthusiasts to visit any United Motors showroom to experience the 2025 Mitsubishi lineup first-hand.

For those seeking a vehicle that combines modern design, fuel efficiency and reliability, the 2025 Mitsubishi range is unmissable. Think SUV. Think Mitsubishi.

National AI Expo 2025 launchpad for inclusive, globally competitive digital economy

Digital Economy Deputy Minister Eng. Eranga Weeraratne yesterday unveiled Sri Lanka’s ambitious AI vision at the first-ever National AI Expo and Conference 2025, urging private sector investors to partner with local innovators to build a globally competitive digital economy.

Speaking at the two-day conference spearheaded by the Digital Economy Ministry in collaboration with SLT-Mobitel, he said the event is being positioned not merely as a showcase, but as a launchpad, ushering in what the Government hopes will be a smarter, more ethical, inclusive and secure change.

‘We are not just here to showcase technology, but to mark the beginning of a new chapter,’ Eng. Weeraratne said.

Calling on the private sector and investors, he emphasised the economic potential of AI. ‘The future of your industries is sitting right here in this room. Partner with these bright minds, invest in their ideas, and let’s create a globally competitive AI industry together, right here in Sri Lanka,’ he added.

To ensure this transformation, the Deputy Minister outlined a four-pillar national strategy; building human capital, fostering innovation ecosystems, ensuring inclusivity, and promoting safe and ethical AI use.

‘Our biggest asset is our people. We will integrate digital literacy and data education into the national curriculum and launch large-scale skilling programs to create a future-ready workforce,’ he stressed.

He revealed that the Government will launch a dedicated startup funding program in January 2026 to back research and bold experimentation.

‘Sometimes the biggest breakthroughs come from the boldest experiments. That is why we are going to launch a fund to encourage and invest in Sri Lankan startups. This is non-negotiable if we want to compete globally,’ he asserted.

The Deputy Minister also outlined a national strategy to integrate the technology across industries, education, and everyday life, positioning Sri Lanka as a hub for globally competitive, people-centred digital transformation.

Inclusivity, he said, would be central to Sri Lanka’s AI journey. ‘No one gets left behind. This technology must work for the shop owner in Jaffna as much as for the CEO in Colombo. It must speak our languages and solve our local challenges,’ he added.

Eng. Weeraratne also acknowledged the risks and challenges posed by AI. ‘We cannot ignore how AI can be used to spread disinformation, run sophisticated scams, or attack our infrastructure. That is why we have established a National Cybersecurity Coordination Centre and will soon launch a dedicated Defence Cybersecurity Operations Centre, both leveraging AI to protect our nation from such threats,’ he said.

Addressing innovators, students, academics, industry leaders, policymakers, diplomats and investors, the Deputy Minister compared AI’s transformative impact to electricity.

‘The best way to understand AI is as the new electricity. Just like electricity revolutionised industry, AI is now becoming the foundation of technology, changing how we work, live, and grow,’ he added.

Eng. Weeraratne painted a vivid picture of AI’s practical applications in Sri Lanka.

‘Imagine a doctor in a small clinic in Anuradhapura who can instantly access expert diagnosis from Colombo, or farmers receiving precise predictive data on weather and soil conditions to safeguard their crops,’ he explained.

‘For our globally renowned hospitality sector, AI could personalise visitor experiences; helping tourists avoid the midday heat, find hidden gems, or discover the best home-cooked rice and curry in a village restaurant. These are not futuristic fantasies. They are real, practical changes that will uplift our people,’ he added.

His final message was directed at the youth. ‘Students, you are the next generation that will define this new era. Be curious, never stop learning and get ready to build futures we can all be proud of. With great tools come great responsibilities, use them wisely, ethically and for the benefit of all Sri Lankans and the world,’ Eng. Weeraratne said. (CdeS)

US tariffs: Implications and opportunities for Sri Lanka

The Sri Lanka-USA Business Council of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce – focusing on strengthening bilateral trade, investment, and business ties between Sri Lanka and the United States, recently hosted a timely webinar on the evolving US tariff regime and its implications for Sri Lankan exporters. The session brought together trade experts and industry leaders to examine how Sri Lanka can navigate risks, leverage short-term opportunities, and prepare for long-term competitiveness.

Delivering the welcome note, the Sri Lanka-USA Business Council President and also the Group Chief Financial Officer of MAC Holdings, Tilak Gunawardena, stressed the importance of understanding the shifting US trade environment. ‘As global trade regulations continue to evolve, understanding US tariff policy is vital for Sri Lankan businesses seeking to grow and sustain their presence in the US market,’ he said. He reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to supporting the wider business community with timely, relevant, and actionable insights.

Setting the stage, Advocata Chief Executive Officer Dhananath Fernando explained that the discussion would focus on how US tariffs are reshaping global trade, the risks Sri Lanka faces, and the opportunities that may arise from this changing environment.

The discussion opened with Deloitte India Executive Director Vijay Chauhan, with over 30 years of experience on public policy, trade facilitation, customs and indirect tax administration. He provided a breakdown of how the US is applying tariffs through domestic laws such as the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), Section 232 (national-security tariffs on steel, autos, etc.), and Section 301 (actions mainly targeting China). Vijay noted that while these tariffs are being challenged in the US courts, they currently remain in force, however he advised exporters to maintain meticulous documentation and remain in close contact with US counterparts in case refund opportunities arise in future.

Lanka’s tariff rate has fallen to 20%

Turning to the industry perspective with Yohan Lawrence, a key voice in the apparel sector, the Chairman of the Exporters Association of Sri Lanka and the Secretary General of the Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF). He observed that Sri Lanka’s tariff rate has fallen to 20%, now in parity with competitors like Bangladesh, Cambodia, and Vietnam. Therefore, apparel orders have not shifted significantly. Further, as many buyers expect India’s current 50% tariff to be temporary, they’re hesitant to shift supply chains to Sri Lanka. He cautioned that the real concern would be that the higher tariffs could drive inflation in the US and reduce consumer demand, forcing global brands to push suppliers – including Sri Lanka – to cut prices, with potential consequences for export revenues and jobs. However, to cushion the impact of the US pressures, he noted that the UK’s new trade scheme could offer Sri Lanka some relief and opportunities.

Adding a broader economic lens, Shiran Fernando, Chief Economist of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce leading the Chamber’s Economic Research and policy advocacy initiatives, explained that fears of a major export slump have not materialised. In fact, most Asia-Pacific countries, including Sri Lanka, reported export growth in the first half of the year. Yet Sri Lanka’s growth was slower than peers such as Vietnam and Thailand, which have benefited from electronics demand driven by the global AI boom. Meanwhile, US imports from China are falling but China has rerouted to ASEAN, the EU, and Latin America, intensifying competition for Sri Lankan exporters.

Speaking on compliance requirements that Sri Lankan exporters should exercise caution on, Vijay highlighted three key aspects; accurate HS classification – to avoid overpaying duties; valuation strategies – including the legal use of the ‘first sale’ rule (provided transfer pricing rules are respected) and rules of origin – where only genuine value addition qualifies products as Sri Lankan. He stressed that missteps here can lead to severe penalties.

However, Vijay also noted an opportunity: Indian firms may look to partner with Sri Lankan companies for further processing before exporting to the US under Sri Lanka’s lower 20% tariff – granted rules of origin and compliance are carefully followed.

Non-tariff barriers may prove more critical than tariffs

Both Yohan and Shiran emphasised that non-tariff barriers may prove more critical than tariffs themselves. While Sri Lanka’s apparel exports face few non-tariff barriers in the US, Sri Lanka imposes many on its own imports. Shiran noted that, since Sri Lanka operates under a Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) with the US rather than a full FTA, these non-tariff measures often create friction in trade discussions. He also pointed out that the country’s tariff structure remains ‘convoluted,’ with para-tariffs that further complicate negotiations. However, under the IMF program, Sri Lanka is expected to gradually simplify these structures – a move both panellists stressed is essential.

The panel also discussed sectoral exposure of the tariffs as two-thirds of Sri Lanka’s exports to the US are apparel, followed by around $ 300 million in rubber products and smaller contributions from tea and other sectors. While the reduction of tariffs to 20% has provided relief, this advantage is fragile. Both Lawrence and Fernando warned that tariffs are a ‘moving target’ and could rise again if Sri Lanka mishandles trade policy, as seen with India.

The audience also directed a question on how Sri Lanka compares with Vietnam, to which Lawrence noted that while both countries now face the same 20% tariff, Vietnam enjoys an edge due to its stronger domestic fabric base, while Sri Lanka relies heavily on inputs from China. If stricter ‘rules of origin’ are enforced, this gap could widen.

In terms of global positioning, Vijay stressed that current tariff arbitrage is a short-term window of opportunity. Over the long term, as tariffs are expected to stabilise between 10-20%, Sri Lanka must strengthen its comparative advantage through productivity, efficiency, and greater market access to other countries.

He pointed to FTAs as a key tool for accessing new markets but urged that future agreements should focus more on addressing the non-tariff barriers than just tariff measures.

Sri Lanka’s future depends both on the US Supreme Court’s eventual ruling on tariffs and on domestic reforms. Even if tariff advantages persist in the short term, lasting gains will come only through deeper reforms, greater efficiency, and stronger trade agreements

Conflicts between customs valuation and transfer pricing rules will always exist

In response to a question on transfer pricing risks with the US, Vijay cautioned that conflicts between customs valuation and transfer pricing rules will always exist. He noted that while lower tariffs previously meant valuations were largely shaped by transfer pricing, companies must now balance both regimes carefully. Any attempt to reduce customs values, he stressed, should be checked for consistency with transfer pricing rules to avoid penalties.

Fernando provided relevant insights on Sri Lanka’s currency outlook. While the rupee appears stable against the US dollar, domestic pressures – higher imports, weaker tourism inflows, and the Central Bank’s progress on the reserve build-up – suggest gradual depreciation. He clarified that Sri Lanka is not ‘manipulating’ its currency, as alleged in past US debates, but remains vulnerable to external shocks. To build resilience, he argued, Sri Lanka must push ahead with ‘second-generation reforms’ such as tariff simplification, trade facilitation, digitised customs, stronger FTA negotiation capacity, and labour market reforms.

Finally, Lawrence highlighted sustainability as Sri Lanka’s long-term differentiator. While price remains the main driver in the US market, brands continue to demand ethical and sustainable practices. With the EU and UK tightening compliance requirements, Sri Lanka’s reputation for sustainable manufacturing can provide a lasting competitive edge – even if buyers are reluctant to pay extra for it in the short term.

Summing up, Dhananath noted that Sri Lanka’s future depends both on the US Supreme Court’s eventual ruling on tariffs and on domestic reforms. Even if tariff advantages persist in the short term, lasting gains will come only through deeper reforms, greater efficiency, and stronger trade agreements. The panel agreed that while tariffs will remain important, non-tariff barriers, compliance, and competitiveness reforms will ultimately shape Sri Lanka’s success in global markets.

Pan Asia Bank collaborates with Senok Trade Combine to unlock exclusive benefits for clients

Pan Asia Bank has partnered with Senok Trade Combine Ltd., a diversified conglomerate with business interests across automobiles, construction, renewable energy, and trading. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in aligning financial services with industry leadership to deliver greater value to Sri Lankan businesses and consumers alike.

Through this partnership, Pan Asia Bank will extend its financial expertise to complement Senok’s extensive operations, creating new opportunities for growth across multiple sectors. Customers of Senok will gain access to specially designed financing packages, including flexible leasing options, trade finance solutions, and tailor-made credit facilities that will make it easier to invest in vehicles, equipment, and other business needs. The partnership is particularly significant for the automobile and construction sectors, where Senok has long held a leadership position, as it allows Pan Asia Bank to provide innovative banking solutions that directly support sectoral growth.

A key highlight of this collaboration is the opportunity for customers to experience some of Senok’s flagship automobiles, including the Haval Jolion, a state-of-the-art SUV; the View CS2, and the Tunland G7. With Pan Asia Bank’s innovative leasing solutions, these vehicles are now more accessible, empowering customers to drive their aspirations forward.

Pan Asia Bank Director/CEO Naleen Edirisinghe emphasised the bank’s vision for meaningful partnerships: ‘At Pan Asia Bank, we believe in forging alliances that go beyond conventional business ties. This partnership with Senok brings together financial innovation and industry expertise in a way that empowers businesses, fuels customer aspirations, and contributes to national economic growth.’

The MoU between Pan Asia Bank and Senok Trade Combine is not just a formal agreement, but a strategic step towards fostering long-term growth, innovation, and sustainability across industries. Together, the two organisations are well-positioned to support business expansion, generate employment opportunities, and create shared value for communities and stakeholders across the country.