Country Profile

Sri Lanka has emerged from its long internal conflict, but with the post-war euphoria behind it, a number of structural challenges remain that will determine the country’s trajectory as it pushes forward. The state’s involvement in large parts of the economy could present stumbling blocks to a number of liberalising economic reforms that Sri Lanka is likely to need if it is to increase its competitiveness in international markets. While there has been a wait-and-see approach within Sri Lanka’s private sector, the long-term impact is expected to be positive. The reinstatement of GSP+ benefits should also see state-owned enterprises release more power to the private sector to reap all potential benefits, expand revenue streams and repay creditors more quickly.

This chapter contains interviews with President Maithripala Sirisena; and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe.