Sri Lanka Records Budget Surplus and Historic Growth, Says President

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka President Anura Kumara Dissanayake revealed that Sri Lanka is experiencing a historic economic turnaround, marked by higher-than-expected revenue, a reduced budget deficit, and record-breaking foreign investment.

“For the first time in our history, we are reporting a budget deficit that is lower than projected,” the President stated. “Not only that—we have recorded revenue that exceeds expectations. This is the only year in recent memory where no supplementary estimates have been submitted for additional expenditure.”

He emphasized that the government is steering the economy with clear targets and disciplined planning, resulting in 4.8% growth in the first quarter and 4.9% in the second quarter. By year-end, Sri Lanka is expected to reach close to 5% growth, marking two consecutive years of sustained economic expansion.

The President also highlighted progress in currency stabilization and efforts to increase foreign reserves to USD 7 billion. Interest rates have been stabilized, and the banking sector is now actively supporting private sector investments.

In terms of foreign direct investment (FDI), Sri Lanka has attracted USD 1 billion over the past year. 

Under the Port City initiative, four major projects worth USD 1.4 billion have already been approved. Another USD 1.2 billion project is nearing final agreement, with 90% of negotiations completed, and is expected to be finalized during the President’s upcoming visit to Japan.

“This is not a broken state built on borrowed hope,” he declared. “We are rebuilding Sri Lanka on a foundation of fiscal discipline, economic stability, and strategic investment.”