President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has pledged stronger protection for investors and outlined plans to expand private sector participation in Sri Lanka’s infrastructure and economic development.
Speaking at the Sri Lanka Economic and Investment Summit 2026 on 12 October at the Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo, he highlighted transparency, predictable regulations and improved infrastructure as foundations for attracting investment.
The summit, organised by The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, featured a fireside chat moderated by Standard Chartered Bank Sri Lanka CEO and Chamber Vice Chairperson Bingumal Thewarathanthri.
Dissanayake emphasised the importance of strengthening domestic businesses so they can form partnerships with foreign investors and international companies.
Among the major proposals is private participation in managing and operating the East Container Terminal at the Port of Colombo, while ownership remains with the State. Discussions with major international shipping companies are under way.
He also outlined a proposed US$1.4 billion breakwater investment to support the second phase of the West Container Terminal.
In energy, the Government intends to invite private investment into four identified electricity transmission lines and expand competitive procurement to help reduce electricity costs.
The President indicated that the 2027 Budget could provide relief on bunkering taxation, while concessions for rural investment are being considered.
Plans also include procurement reforms, a review of private fuel agreements and 75 additional Ceylon Petroleum Corporation filling stations.
To strengthen workforce capabilities, he announced plans for an artificial intelligence training centre in collaboration with Singapore.
The proposed measures cover several sectors central to Sri Lanka’s growth ambitions, including logistics, technology and rural enterprise. Dissanayake said the Government would establish the necessary legal and regulatory safeguards, while encouraging entrepreneurs to seize emerging opportunities and build stronger partnerships that support investment, employment and broader economic development nationwide.
He urged businesses to invest confidently, pledging government action on investment security and infrastructure development.
