Govt plans to expand procurement opportunities for domestic businesses
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake says strengthening local industries is a primary objective of the Government and there are plans to expand opportunities for domestic businesses in meeting Government procurement needs in the future. President Dissanayake made these remarks during a…
Trump warns 50% tariffs on countries supplying weapons to Iran
US President Donald Trump has warned that countries supplying military weapons to Iran will face immediate economic consequences, while also claiming progress in talks with Tehran following what he described as a “regime change”. In a statement posted on social…
UAE intercepts fresh missile and drone attacks despite ceasefire
UAE air defence systems intercepted 17 ballistic missiles and 35 drones launched from Iran on April 8, according to the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Defence, as regional tensions continue despite ongoing ceasefire efforts. In a statement, the UAE Ministry…
‘Caution level’ heat alert issued for 21 districts
The Department of Meteorology has issued an advisory for warm weather in the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Southern, Eastern, North-western, Northern and North-central provinces and the Monaragala district. Per the advisory, valid for tomorrow (April 09), the Heat Index, the temperature felt…
WCA backs Nuwan Thushara, says players’ basic rights must be protected
Sri Lanka fast bowler Nuwan Thushara’s legal challenge against Sri Lanka Cricket over the refusal to grant a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) has drawn international attention, with the World Cricketers’ Association (WCA) expressing…
SLTB announces Special Bus Services from April 9–21
The Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) has announced special bus services during the upcoming Sinhala and Tamil New Year festive season. Addressing the media today, SLTB Chairman Sajeewa Kanakarathna said the special transport service will be in effect from 09…
‘100% Natural’ pet medicine scam exposed
The Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) has raided a large-scale pet medicine manufacturing facility operating in the Minuwangoda area, uncovering what officials described as a major fraudulent operation. During the raid, officials found that western medicines used to treat ticks and…
Iraq reopens airspace following weeks-long closure
The Iraqi Civil Aviation Authority (ICAA) officially announced the reopening of the country’s airspace and all commercial airports, effective immediately, in a major step toward normalizing national operations. The announcement was made by the head of the authority, Bengin Rekani,…
Shiran Fernando appointed Ceylon Chamber Secretary General/CEO
Shiran Fernando has been appointed Secretary General and Chief Executive Officer of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, effective 8th May 2026. Fernando succeeds Buwanekabahu Perera, who concludes a three‑year tenure at the helm of the Chamber. “This leadership transition reflects…
Strong buying lifts Colombo Stock Market
The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) witnessed significant gains today, with the All Share Price Index (ASPI) surging by 885.14 points, or 4.21%, to close at 21,917.60. Market turnover stood at Rs. 6.61 billion, reflecting heightened investor activity and confidence. According…