President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has outlined an ambitious agenda centred on industrial transformation, export competitiveness and public sector efficiency as the Government intensifies preparations for Sri Lanka’s 2027 Budget, scheduled to be presented on 12 November.

During a high level pre Budget discussion at the Presidential Secretariat, the President emphasised the need to accelerate industrial development, strengthen support for entrepreneurs and exporters, and reform State owned enterprises to improve efficiency while reducing the financial burden on taxpayers.

The meeting focused on reviewing the progress of proposed industrial zones in Dambulla, Ingiriya, Valachchenai, Millaniya and Katunayake, with particular attention given to addressing infrastructure challenges such as land allocation, electricity, water supply and road connectivity. The President instructed officials to ensure ongoing projects are completed within agreed timelines while clearly defining the Government’s role in industrial development.

A significant proposal discussed was the establishment of the Entrepreneurship and Industry Transformation Authority, which is expected to promote entrepreneurship, strengthen industrial capabilities and encourage sector specific development across the country.

President Dissanayake also reviewed the performance of State owned enterprises, including those operating in the sugar and salt industries, stressing that institutional consolidation should deliver measurable efficiency gains rather than simply merging organisations. He noted that reducing unnecessary operational expenditure remains a priority.

The discussion further examined challenges confronting exporters and manufacturers, with officials directed to formulate proposals for targeted concessions that would stimulate investment, improve competitiveness and strengthen export growth.

The meeting was attended by Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Minister Sunil Handunneththi, Labour Minister and Deputy Finance Minister Dr Anil Jayantha Fernando, Deputy Minister Chathuranga Abeysinghe, Secretary to the President Dr Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, Finance Ministry Secretary Dr Harshana Suriyapperuma and other senior Government officials.