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Top stories — November 11, 2026

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ADB approves $98 million loan for Sri Lanka's digital transformation project

November 11·3 sources

The Asian Development Bank approved a $98 million loan on 10 November 2026 to support Sri Lanka's digital transformation and public service delivery. The bank is also providing an additional $1 million technical assistance grant from its Technical Assistance Special Fund to support program preparation, design, and capacity building. The Advancing Digital Transformation Project will expand broadband in underserved areas, upgrade telecommunications from 2G to 4G and 5G, and enhance government data systems through Lanka Government Cloud 3.0. Aligned with the National Digital Economy Blueprint, the project will also strengthen cybersecurity and improve digital skills among public sector employees, with targeted support for women.

Economy & BusinessEnglishසිංහල

Sri Lanka faces Bangladesh today seeking a SAFF Championship semi-final place

November 11·4 sources

Sri Lanka plays host Bangladesh today, 11 November, in Dhaka in their final Group A match of the SAFF Championship, seeking qualification for the semi-finals. While other outlets reported a 7:30 p.m. kick-off, Daily FT reported 8:00 p.m. Having drawn 2-2 against Bhutan, Sri Lanka needs a win or a draw to guarantee progression. Even a single-goal defeat could secure qualification depending on disciplinary records and goal difference, while Bangladesh has already qualified. Sri Lanka’s squad was bolstered by the arrival of Germany-based players Jason Thayaparan and Claudio Kamenech on Tuesday. Head Coach Abdullah Al Mutairi said his team would play for victory, while urging fans to keep the countries' cricket rivalry out of football.

SportsEnglishසිංහලதமிழ்

Central Bank restricts Ernst & Young partners following Rs. 13.6 billion NDB fraud

November 11·4 sources

The Central Bank of Sri Lanka has asked Ernst & Young not to assign licensed bank audits to two partners who audited National Development Bank PLC. This follows the disclosure of a Rs. 13.6 billion internal fraud. The fraud reportedly ran undetected for three years and was discovered after NDB’s 2025 financial accounts were certified. The regulator has also required NDB to reconstitute its Board Audit Committee. Bank Supervision Director R.R.S. de Silva Jayathilaka disclosed the actions to the Committee on Public Finance on 5 November. Committee Chairman Dr. Harsha de Silva stated that such regulatory steps do not need to be kept completely confidential. The Central Bank clarified that the restriction applies only to the engagement and quality assurance partners, confirming that Ernst & Young remains eligible to audit licensed banks under the Banking Act.

Economy & BusinessEnglishසිංහල

Court of Appeal President appoints three-judge bench to hear Hirunika Premachandra's appeal

November 11·5 sources

Court of Appeal President Justice Rohantha Abeysooriya has appointed a three-judge bench to hear the appeal filed by former Member of Parliament Hirunika Premachandra against her conviction and three-year prison sentence. The decision followed a split verdict by a two-judge bench comprising Justices P. Kumararatnam and Pradeep Hettiarachchi. The newly appointed bench, including Abeysooriya and both judges, will hear the appeal on 21 January 2027. Premachandra was convicted by the Colombo High Court on 18 charges, including the abduction, unlawful detention, and assault of Amila Priyankara in Dematagoda on 21 December 2015. She is currently on bail pending the determination of the appeal.

Crime & CourtsEnglishසිංහලதமிழ்

Pakistan dominate Sri Lanka on second day of first Test in Rawalpindi

November 11·4 sources

Pakistan declared their first innings at 434 for 9 before reducing Sri Lanka to 114 for 3 by stumps on day two of the first Test in Rawalpindi on Tuesday. Resuming at 281 for 5, Pakistan were lifted by Saud Shakeel's 93 and debutant Arafat Minhas's 52. Asitha Fernando claimed his 100th Test wicket, taking 3 for 107 alongside Dilshan Madushanka's 3 for 108. In reply, Sri Lanka lost Pasindu Sooriyabandara without scoring, Dinesh Chandimal for one, and Lahiru Udara for 42. Pakistan debutant Saqib Khan took two wickets and Mohammad Abbas took one. Kamindu Mendis on 40 and Dhananjaya de Silva on 22 remained unbeaten, leaving Sri Lanka trailing by 320 runs. The Morning called de Silva captain, while FT.lk referred to him as former captain.

SportsEnglishසිංහලதமிழ்

Japan grants 1 billion yen to boost Sri Lanka Navy maritime capabilities

November 11·3 sources

The Government of Japan has agreed to provide a grant of one billion yen, or about Rs. 2.1 billion, under its Official Security Assistance Program 2026 to enhance the Sri Lanka Navy's maritime security and surveillance capabilities. Japanese Ambassador Akio Isomata and Treasury Secretary Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma signed the agreement in Colombo. FT.lk and News 1st reported the signing occurred on 10 November 2026, while Virakesari stated it was on 10 October. The grant will fund Rigid Hull Inflatable Boats for maritime law enforcement and disaster response. FT.lk reported 25 vessels will be procured and deployed across the Northern, Eastern, North Western, Western, and Southern Naval Commands. This is Japan's second project under the program, following ¥500 million granted in 2025 to procure surveillance drones for the Navy.

Foreign AffairsEnglishதமிழ்

Cabinet approves $200 million ADB financing for micro, small and medium enterprises

November 11·2 sources

The Cabinet has approved entering into agreements with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for a $200 million facility to improve credit access for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises. Cabinet Spokesman Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa announced that the facility includes a $100 million policy loan repayable over 12 years with a three-year grace period, and a $100 million financial intermediation loan repayable over 15 years with a five-year grace period. The financing forms the first stage of a broader $620 million ADB package approved for negotiations in March 2026 to support Sri Lanka’s economic reforms alongside the International Monetary Fund programme. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake submitted the proposal in his capacity as the Minister of Finance, Planning and Development.

Economy & BusinessEnglishසිංහල

Ravi Karunanayake appeals to HSBC leadership to reverse closure of Sri Lanka centre

November 11·2 sources

Opposition Member of Parliament Ravi Karunanayake has written to HSBC Holdings leadership, appealing to them to reverse the planned closure of HSBC Electronic Data Processing Lanka. Karunanayake offered to help organise government support to retain the operation, urging discussions before the decision becomes irreversible. Citing an HSBC notice from 7 October 2026, he noted the proposed migration stems from a global operating-model review rather than local performance. Karunanayake stated the centre employed 1,659 workers as of 30 September 2026, down from a peak of about 4,500, warning that closure would disrupt thousands of livelihoods.

Economy & BusinessEnglish

Typical Sri Lankan household real income fell 4.3% from 2016 to 2025

November 11·1 source

The typical Sri Lankan household had less purchasing power in early 2025 than in 2016, according to preliminary results from the Department of Census and Statistics Household Income and Expenditure Survey 2025. Nominal average monthly household income rose 93% from Rs. 62,237 in 2016 to Rs. 120,266 in 2025. However, after adjusting for inflation, real mean household income increased by only 6% over the nine-year period. Real median monthly income fell 4.3% from Rs. 43,511 in 2016 to Rs. 41,623 in early 2025. This dropped median income 11.1% below 2019 levels, erasing earlier gains. Income trajectories also diverged across income groups. Real monthly income for the poorest 20% of households dropped 16.4% from Rs. 14,843 to Rs. 12,403, while average real income among the richest 20% increased.

Economy & BusinessEnglish

PUCSL decides not to revise electricity tariffs for final quarter of 2026

November 11·3 sources

The Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL) has decided not to revise electricity tariffs for the final quarter of 2026. The tariff structure used in the third quarter will remain unchanged until the end of the year. The decision follows National System Operator (NSO) data showing a 2.88 percent increase in electricity supply costs. The NSO submitted updated cost data on 9 November 2026. According to the Daily Mirror, the NSO submitted initial estimates on 6 October, missing a deadline set for before 17 August 2026. The PUCSL stated that it decided against a revision after reviewing the updated cost data and stakeholder views submitted during legally required public consultations.

Economy & BusinessEnglish

President Dissanayake to present 2027 Budget to Parliament on Thursday

November 11·1 source

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake will present the 2027 Budget to Parliament on Thursday (12), serving in his role as Minister of Finance. The presentation follows an increase in tax revenue from Rs. 1.75 trillion in 2022 to Rs. 5.05 trillion in 2025, with collections growing by another 25.9% in the first half of 2026. However, indirect taxes accounted for 77.4% of tax revenue in 2025 and rose to 79% in the first half of 2026, while direct income taxes made up the remaining 21%. Former Central Bank Deputy Governor Dr W. A. Wijewardena described the tax burden as an “overdose”. Meanwhile, official data placed the June 2026 poverty line at Rs. 70,368 monthly for a family of four.

Economy & BusinessEnglish

Commentary questions whether national budget spending delivers meaningful benefits to public

November 11·1 source

A commentary published on Wednesday (11) questioned whether the national budget effectively returns public tax revenue to society through meaningful improvements in public services. The commentary noted that citizens contribute to state revenue through income taxes, value-added taxes, customs duties, and other levies. In return, the public expects better schools, reliable hospitals, safer roads, and efficient transport. However, it observed that despite budget allocations, many taxpayers still face inadequate healthcare, spend extra on private tuition, and endure administrative delays at government offices. It noted that public spending should be allocated fairly to reach communities in need.

Economy & BusinessEnglish

President to present 2027 budget on 12 November after Rs. 35 billion surplus

November 11·1 source

The President, as Finance Minister, will present the 2027 Budget to Parliament on 12 November, according to a Daily FT commentary. In the first eight months of 2026, revenue and grants rose 21% year-on-year to Rs. 4,002 billion, generating an overall surplus of Rs. 35 billion and a primary surplus of Rs. 1,645 billion. However, total expenditure reached only 56.2% of the annual budget by August, with capital expenditure and net lending reaching Rs. 436 billion, or 31.8% of the allocation. The commentary cautioned that relying on unspent capital allocations damages future growth by leaving infrastructure underfunded, even as central government debt fell to 91.6% of GDP in 2025.

Economy & BusinessEnglish

Rumesh Tharanga finishes eighth in World Athletics Male Athlete of the Year rankings

November 11·1 source

Sri Lankan javelin thrower Rumesh Tharanga Pathirage has secured eighth place in the 2026 World Athletics Male Athlete of the Year rankings. He was among 10 athletes nominated for the award. During the 2026 season, Pathirage won gold medals at both the Asian Games and Commonwealth Games, alongside the Diamond League title and the World Athletics Ultimate Championship. Pathirage also set a new Sri Lankan national record with a throw of 92.62 metres at the Diamond League meeting in Rome, making him the second-best javelin thrower in Asian history.

SportsEnglish

Cabinet approves Rs. 9.1 billion in contracts for highway upgrades and cyclone repairs

November 11·2 sources

The Cabinet of Ministers has approved awarding four road development and rehabilitation contracts worth Rs. 9.1 billion, excluding value-added tax. Cabinet Spokesman Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa said on 10 November 2026 that contracts were awarded through national competitive procurement to the lowest responsive bidders, based on proposals by Transport Minister Bimal Rathnayake. Three contracts worth Rs. 8.33 billion cover highway widening and improvements. RR Construction secured two contracts valued at Rs. 1,485.79 million for the A004 road and Rs. 3,739.84 million for the A018 road. Maga Engineering was awarded a Rs. 3,106.21 million contract for the B365 road. ELS Construction received a Rs. 763.98 million contract to rehabilitate road sections in Nawalapitiya damaged by Cyclone Ditwah.

Economy & BusinessEnglishසිංහල

Commentary highlights role of Appropriation Bill and national budget in Sri Lanka

November 11·1 source

A Daily FT commentary stated that the national budget and Appropriation Bill serve as primary instruments for public financial management and economic stability in Sri Lanka. Under Article 148 of the Constitution, Parliament retains full authority over public funds. No taxes can be levied or revenues withdrawn from the Consolidated Fund without legislative approval. The commentary noted that the Appropriation Bill formally authorizes the government to withdraw funds from the Consolidated Fund for public services, administration, and development projects. According to the commentary, a sound budget must ensure comprehensiveness across all revenues and liabilities, fiscal transparency distinguishing recurrent from capital spending, and predictability linked to medium-term economic frameworks.

Economy & BusinessEnglish

Cabinet approves MoU with India for grant to buy 100 Suwa Seriya ambulances

November 11·2 sources

The Cabinet of Ministers approved signing a Memorandum of Understanding with India to secure a Rs. 1,725.7 million grant to purchase 100 new ambulances for the 1990 Suwa Seriya emergency service. Cabinet Spokesman and Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa said on Tuesday (10) that the agreement will be signed with India's Health Minister, who arrives in Sri Lanka on Wednesday (11). India agreed to the outright grant following a special request from Sri Lanka. Suppliers for the fully equipped ambulances will be chosen through competitive bidding, and the Health Ministry will recruit staff and handle operations. Jayatissa said the new vehicles will address wear and tear in the existing fleet of 322 ambulances, which covers about 9 million kilometres annually and faces increasing mechanical faults. The free 24-hour service was launched in 2016 with Indian assistance and handles between 1,000 and 1,200 patient transport requests daily nationwide.

HealthEnglishසිංහල

CIC Holdings reports 16.7% rise in first-half net profit to Rs. 3.79 billion

November 11·2 sources

CIC Holdings PLC reported a consolidated revenue of Rs. 42.91 billion for the first half of the 2026/27 financial year, recording a 3.06% growth over the previous year. Profit after tax rose 16.72% to Rs. 3.79 billion from Rs. 3.25 billion, while profit before tax grew 8.26% to Rs. 5.35 billion. Post-subdivision earnings per share increased from Rs. 1.37 to Rs. 1.67. Agri Solutions remained the largest revenue contributor at 40.18%, generating Rs. 17.51 billion. Livestock Solutions contributed Rs. 10.59 billion, while Health and Personal Care generated Rs. 10.05 billion. Industrial Solutions posted the fastest top-line growth, surging 34.91% to Rs. 5.43 billion, and increased its segmental profit by 47.37% to Rs. 1.02 billion.

Economy & BusinessEnglish

Colombo floods expose drainage capacity limits after heavy rain on 6 November

November 11·1 source

Heavy floods submerged several parts of Colombo on 6 November 2026, bringing economic and social activities to a standstill after approximately 129 mm of rain fell within a few hours. Officials revealed that the city’s existing drainage network was originally designed to handle only about 30 mm of rainfall per hour. While some argued recent infrastructure projects had enhanced drainage capacity and blamed blockages, the report noted that solid waste, construction silt, poor maintenance and insufficient capacity all contributed to the flooding.

Environment & WeatherEnglish

CBSL Governor tells Parliament structural reforms are needed to boost economic growth

November 11·1 source

Central Bank Governor Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe told the Committee on Public Finance that expanding Sri Lanka’s growth potential depends on Parliament passing structural reforms, rather than on monetary policy. Dr. Weerasinghe said the Central Bank could help the economy operate near its potential capacity, but could not expand it. He said achieving 6% to 7% growth requires reforms across trade, investment, customs, land markets, and labour. According to Dr. Weerasinghe, the International Monetary Fund estimated Sri Lanka’s potential growth at around 3%, while the Central Bank estimated it at 4% to 5%. Committee Chairman and opposition MP Dr. Harsha de Silva welcomed the Government’s reform direction, agreeing that the need for structural change should transcend party politics.

Economy & BusinessEnglish

Sri Lanka women's cricket team departs for UAE ahead of Emerging Nations tournament

November 11·2 sources

A 14-member Sri Lanka women’s cricket team, captained by Harshitha Samarawickrama, departed for the United Arab Emirates on 10 November to compete in the ICC Women’s Emerging Nations tournament. The 10-nation Twenty20 event will be held in Ajman from 12 to 25 November. Dinamina noted that the International Cricket Council is staging the competition for the second time. Sri Lanka is placed in Group A alongside Ireland, Scotland, Papua New Guinea, and the host nation UAE. Group B comprises Bangladesh, the Netherlands, Pakistan, Thailand, and Zimbabwe. Sri Lanka will play the opening match against Ireland on 12 November, followed by fixtures against Scotland on 13 November, Papua New Guinea on 15 November, and the UAE on 16 November.

SportsEnglishසිංහල

Asitha Fernando becomes fastest Sri Lankan fast bowler to reach 100 Test wickets

November 11·1 source

Asitha Fernando became the fastest Sri Lankan fast bowler to take 100 Test wickets on 10 November 2026, reaching the milestone in 48 innings. Fernando broke Chaminda Vaas's 28-year-old record of 51 innings after having Saud Shakeel caught behind on the second day of the first Test in Rawalpindi. Fernando is the tenth Sri Lankan bowler to achieve 100 Test wickets. He also holds the best bowling average among the six Sri Lankan pacers on the list, averaging 27.01 across 29 matches.

SportsEnglish

Cabinet awards Rs. 1.73 billion Kelaniya University building contract to Sathuta Builders

November 11·1 source

The Cabinet of Ministers has approved awarding a Rs. 1.73 billion contract, excluding Value Added Tax, to Sathuta Builders Ltd. to construct a 10-storey building for the University of Kelaniya. The building will house the university’s Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies, reviving a project previously halted due to the country’s economic crisis. Cabinet Spokesman Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa said the contract was awarded to the lowest substantially responsive bidder among 10 bids received through national competitive bidding. Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya submitted the proposal in her capacity as Minister of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education.

Economy & BusinessEnglish

Government appoints T. R. W. S. Dhanapala as Youth Affairs and Sports Secretary

November 11·1 source

The Government has appointed T. R. W. S. Dhanapala, a Special Grade officer of the Sri Lanka Administrative Service, as the new Youth Affairs and Sports Ministry Secretary. Dhanapala previously served as the Digital Economy Ministry Secretary. Secretary to the President Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake handed over the letter of appointment to Dhanapala at the President’s Office on Monday.

PoliticsEnglish

Achraf Hakimi leads Moroccan trio on African Player of the Year shortlist

November 11·1 source

Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi, Brahim Diaz, and Ismael Saibari have been named on the Confederation of African Football's 10-man Player of the Year shortlist. Former two-time winner Mohamed Salah was omitted from the list. Hakimi hopes to defend his title on 2 December. The trio helped Morocco reach the World Cup quarterfinals and secure the Africa Cup of Nations title in January. Morocco were awarded the continental title after Senegal walked off the pitch over a disputed penalty in the final. A decision on Senegal’s appeal is expected at the end of November.

SportsEnglish

Neil Marine Sports and Leisure launches Hidea outboard motors in Sri Lanka

November 11·1 source

Neil Marine Sports and Leisure Ltd. has launched Hidea outboard motors in Sri Lanka under an exclusive agency agreement. The launch took place at the Granbell Hotel in Colombo on 26 October. The range includes 2.5HP to 200HP two-stroke and four-stroke petrol, kerosene, and electric engines. The engines target fishermen, leisure boaters, commercial operators, and marine tourism providers. Neil Marine Group CEO Shan Perera said the partnership combines the group's boat-building experience with Hidea’s technology to supply fuel-efficient and dependable engines for Sri Lanka's fisheries and tourism sectors.

Economy & BusinessEnglish

Four golfers share lead on opening day of Sri Lanka Golf Ranking Tournament

November 11·1 source

Four golfers shared the lead on the opening day of the Sri Lanka Golf Ranking Tournament in Rajawella on Tuesday. Chanaka Perera, Uchitha Ranasinghe, Danushan Kanas Kumar and P.D.S.U. Kumara carded identical scores of 76, three over par, to tie for first place in the men’s competition. Lavidu Sohas Premarathna followed in fifth place with 79, while Balaraj Vinoth Kumar, Adhithya Weerasinghe and Janeesh Sasmitha Weerasinghe tied for sixth with 80 each. In the women’s event, Hashani Sanjeewani took the lead with a first-round score of 98, ahead of N.G.N.S.S. Sumanarathna on 102 and Madushika Umayangani on 103. The four-day tournament concludes on 13 November.

SportsEnglish

EFC launches publication on collective agreements signed from 2022 to 2024

November 11·1 source

The Employers’ Federation of Ceylon has launched a publication titled "Collective Bargaining and Agreements in Sri Lanka" (Volume 1). Compiled by the federation's Research and Publications Unit, the study reviews the legal framework and details collective agreements signed between member firms and trade unions from 2022 to 2024. Director General Yashoravi Bakmiwewa said the substantial number of agreements signed during this period reflects a growing trend of using collective bargaining as a platform for discussion between employers and workers. The federation, currently in its 97th year, represents employers across various industries covering more than 800,000 workers in Sri Lanka.

Economy & BusinessEnglish

Cabinet approves five-year agreement between University of Jaffna and Southern Illinois University

November 11·1 source

The Cabinet of Ministers has approved a five-year Memorandum of Understanding between the University of Jaffna and the Board of Trustees of Southern Illinois University in the United States. Cabinet Spokesman Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa announced on Tuesday (10) that the partnership aims to foster academic excellence, strengthen bilateral ties, and facilitate joint research, staff exchanges, and student internship training. The two universities will also hold joint conferences and link their websites to share information. Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya submitted the proposal as the Minister of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education.

EducationEnglish

Roshan Gamage appointed as Digital Economy Ministry Secretary

November 11·1 source

The government has appointed Attorney-at-Law Roshan Gamage as the new Secretary to the Ministry of Digital Economy. Gamage is a Special Grade officer of the Sri Lanka Administrative Service. Secretary to the President Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake handed over the letter of appointment at the President’s Office on Monday.

PoliticsEnglish