Pre-Budget Discussions for 2026 with Energy Sector Stakeholders
A pre-budget discussion with stakeholders in the energy sector was held yesterday (18) at the Presidential Secretariat, under the leadership of Minister of Labour and Deputy Minister of Economic Development, Dr. Anil Jayantha Fernando.
The meeting included a comprehensive discussion regarding strategies to address the increasing electricity demand in the country.
It was emphasized that the energy sector plays a critical role in building a manufacturing driven economy under the new government programme, with special attention given to the development of renewable energy.
Opportunities for electricity exports were also explored. Stakeholders highlighted the high taxes imposed on imports of goods related to the sector and requested that these issues receive attention.
It was agreed to hold a follow-up discussion with the Minister of Energy, Secretary to the Ministry, Chairman of the Ceylon Electricity Board and all relevant stakeholders to address these matters in detail.
Key topics will include maximizing the energy sector’s contribution to a manufacturing economy, reducing production costs and securing the active support of manufacturers in these efforts.
The meeting was attended by Senior Advisor to the President Duminda Hulangamuwa, Chairman of the Export Development Board Mangala Wijesinghe, officials from the Ministry of Finance and a group of energy sector investors.
