Arundathie Abeysinghe

The outcome of the recent round of elections for the renewal of several municipal councils remains uncertain in many cases. In over 150 municipalities, no party or alliance holds an outright majority. The first meeting is scheduled for 2nd June. The opposition parties are attempting a difficult path towards unity in an effort to wrest control of the administrations from the ruling majority.

Hundreds of people rallied demanding justice for Amshika who took her own life after “months of official neglect and public shaming”. A teacher accused in connection with the affair was later released. A political cover-up is suspected. The story is highlighting the shortcomings of Sri Lanka’s education system, as well as the pervasiveness of gender-based violence.

One million jobs are at risk if the 44 per cent tariff is imposed after the 90-day pause. The apparel industry is one of the most vulnerable. According to experts, the tariffs will lead to a 20 per cent drop in exports to the US, with an annual loss of about US$ 300 million.

Government-owned housing in the Sri Lankan capital, including those of former presidents, is in a state of neglect and have been invaded by pests. The decision by the National People's Power government to have its members stay in their own homes has had an impact. A committee has been set up to find ways of dealing with the situation, while neighbours complain of serious health risks and lack of maintenance.

Despite officially banning palm oil cultivation in 2021 due to its environmental impact, large companies involved in this market continue their activities in the country, where consumption of this ingredient remains high. The measure ultimately discourages the introduction of new plant varieties that could represent a solution to the problem, as they have a more limited impact on water resources.

According to the Joint Apparel Association Forum, the 44% tariffs imposed by the White House risk causing a serious setback. Textiles make up 64% of Sri Lanka's exports for 1.8 billion dollars in 2023, with possible losses of up to 300 million dollars. Far-reaching impacts also for rubber and other sectors.

This is the first of its kind in Sri Lanka. Eco-conscious policies have favoured the creation of a sanctuary of biodiversity and minimise the port’s environmental impact. The first phase is set to be completed by May. For experts, it is a valuable project for sustainable practices around the world.

A move to increase tax revenues, but risks undermining domestic production that had experienced a period of strong expansion. The association that brings together operators expresses great ‘concern’. For experts, a tax regime ‘that incentivises locally assembled vehicles’ is preferable.

Government action has so far not stabilised markets. Lower production is causing negative effects on inflation and the availability of products in stores. Some rice varieties have been unavailable for months. Signs of growth are visible only in rubber and some export crops.

A copper and brass factory is contaminating the Kelani River in Pethiyagoda, harming the environment and the health of residents. Sri Lanka's fourth-largest waterway provides 80 per cent of Colombo's drinking water. Despite complaints, the factory continues to operate without the necessary environmental licence. Environmentalists complain that the damage is irreversible.

From April, the Sri Lankan government will introduce a 15% tax on income from the export of services, affecting freelancers and companies that work with foreign clients. The measure aims to increase tax revenue and strengthen control over foreign currency flows, but it also risks incentivising informal transactions.

In June Beijing allocated over 5 million dollars in aid, equipment and assistance. India had previously invested billions of rupees in development projects. The accusation against Indian fishermen who use trawl nets: ‘If this practice continues, there will be no more fish left in our areas in the future’.