The Committee on Public Finance (CoPF) has approved a Rs. 71.7 billion relief package to help reduce the economic impact of the conflict in the Middle East.
The Government introduced the package through Supplementary Estimate No. 03 of 2026. It aims to support fuel supplies, social welfare and key sectors affected by rising costs.
Fuel Sector Gets the Largest Share
The Government has set aside Rs. 52.8 billion for the petroleum sector. The funding will help cover higher fuel import costs and maintain a steady fuel supply.
The package also includes Rs. 15 billion for the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB). Another Rs. 8.2 billion will support the Aswesuma welfare programme.
The Government has allocated Rs. 3 billion for Yala cultivation. Smallholder plantation farmers will receive Rs. 2.2 billion, while the fisheries sector will receive Rs. 1.2 billion.
Government to Use Existing Budget Funds
Officials told the Committee that the Government will use funds already approved under Supplementary Estimate No. 01 of 2026. Parliament introduced those funds earlier this year to support relief and recovery work after Cyclone Ditwah.
The Government said the new package will not increase the 2026 spending limit or the country’s borrowing limit. Instead, it will use money that Parliament has already approved.
The Committee reviewed the proposed spending before giving its approval.
The relief package aims to ease pressure on fuel supplies, electricity, agriculture and welfare programmes. It also seeks to reduce the impact of higher global energy costs on the economy.
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Last modified: August 4, 2026
