Economy Now 'Visibly Recovering' & 2026 Will Be a Positive Year

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka's Deputy Minister of Finance Dr. Anil Jayantha Fernando says that the country recorded economic growth across several sectors last year, and expressed confidence that this year, too, will progress positively.

He stated that when the government assumed office in 2025, there were widespread claims that recovery would be impossible and that the country was on the verge of collapse.

However, he noted that within a year, the public could now clearly see the results.
He emphasized that the administration took charge at a time when the nation was in a severely weakened and unstable condition, facing numerous challenges.

Adding to this, he said the political image created about the government was extremely negative, portraying them as inexperienced, young, and even violent, a narrative that instilled great fear among the public.

Despite this, he said the government was able to dispel these misconceptions and demonstrate, both locally and internationally, how responsibly and democratically they conducted affairs, proving themselves to be true representatives of the people. 

He added that this recognition and political respect have been consistently upheld wherever government officials travelled abroad.

He further noted that no previous government had ever achieved the level of tax revenue collection they accomplished last year. During the very year critics claimed the government would fail, state revenue grew by 110%, which he described as evidence of economic stability.

He highlighted progress in all external sectors as well, including foreign reserves, foreign trade growth, tourism, and remittances. He said that Sri Lanka recorded the highest worker remittances in its history, exceeding USD 8 billion, while exports also saw significant growth. 

Inflation, he said, had been successfully brought under control, and economic growth had surpassed expectations.

He stated that the country had achieved stronger economic stability and progress than anticipated, with major improvements in public finance management.

Commenting on challenges, he acknowledged that the country also had to confront the impact of a cyclone situation, but said the government managed it effectively.