Authorities are stepping up efforts to protect economic stability.
The Economic Monitoring Committee, established on the proposal of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, met on 10 March to assess risks to the economy and identify urgent measures to stabilise markets.
The committee aims to safeguard the economy from external shocks, particularly those linked to the escalating conflict in the Middle East. The meeting was chaired by Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning and Minister of Labour Dr. Anil Jayantha Fernando.
Senior government officials and industry leaders joined the discussion to evaluate the possible impact of the conflict on the economy. Participants examined how developments in the Middle East could affect several key sectors.
These include fuel imports, worker remittances, trade flows, and foreign investment.
As a small open economy, the country relies heavily on fuel imports and remittances from migrant workers employed across the Middle East. Trade and investment links with the region also remain important for economic activity.
During the meeting, officials discussed the potential risks arising from global economic disruptions.
They also reviewed policy responses that could help mitigate these pressures and maintain economic stability.
High-Level Representation
The Economic Monitoring Committee brings together senior policymakers and industry representatives.
Senior Additional Secretary to the President (Finance and Economic Affairs) Russell Aponsu serves as the Secretary and Convener of the committee.
Members include Central Bank Governor Dr. P. Nandalal Weerasinghe, Treasury Secretary Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma, and Senior Presidential Adviser on the Digital Economy Hans Wijesuriya.
Other members include senior officials and leaders from key economic institutions such as the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation, Litro Gas Lanka, Sri Lanka Ports Authority, Export Development Board, Sri Lanka Tea Board, and the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority.
Officials say the committee will continue to monitor global developments closely and recommend policy measures needed to protect economic stability and safeguard citizens from global economic shocks.
Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL)
Last modified: March 11, 2026
