Colombo, Sri Lanka – 01 September 2026 – President Anura Kumara Dissanayake yesterday (31 August) spearheaded a crucial discussion at the Presidential Secretariat, focusing on the strategic development of Sri Lanka’s burgeoning mineral industry. The high-level meeting, convened under the ambitious framework of the National Mineral Policy 2026, underscored the government’s commitment to transforming the sector into a powerhouse for export-oriented economic growth.
The pivotal discussion brought together key stakeholders, including officials from the Sri Lanka Mineral Sands Association (SLMSA) and the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau. The core agenda revolved around systematically harnessing the nation’s rich mineral resources to significantly bolster national economic growth and elevate export earnings.
Key Focus Areas: Exploration, Value Addition, and Growth
Delving into the specifics, the meeting extensively covered critical aspects of the mineral value chain. Particular emphasis was placed on:
- Enhanced Exploration and Extraction: Strategizing for more efficient and sustainable methods to identify and extract Sri Lanka’s valuable mineral deposits.
- Aggressive Value Addition: Moving beyond raw material export to processing minerals within the country, creating higher-value products for international markets.
- Systematic Resource Harnessing: Implementing a structured approach to ensure optimal utilization of mineral wealth, aligning with national economic objectives.
Furthermore, discussions highlighted the imperative need for robust infrastructure development to support an expanding mineral sector. Initiatives to provide attractive incentives for both foreign and domestic investors were explored, alongside promoting advanced research and development to strengthen domestic manufacturing industries reliant on mineral resources.
Attracting Investment and Overcoming Sector Challenges
A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to identifying urgent measures required to magnetize both foreign and domestic investment into the mineral sector. President Dissanayake and attendees engaged in extensive deliberations on addressing existing challenges that deter potential investors.
Particular focus was placed on streamlining processes and resolving difficulties investors encounter when interacting with government institutions, notably concerning the acquisition of licences for mining activities. Attention was also drawn to perceived shortcomings in the current policy framework, signaling a proactive approach to refining the regulatory environment.
In a strong directive, President Dissanayake underscored the paramount importance of ensuring maximum transparency in all investment attraction efforts. He also stressed the critical need for effective coordination among all relevant government institutions and private sector bodies to create a conducive and efficient operating environment for the mineral industry.
Distinguished Participants Present
The significant gathering saw the participation of several key figures dedicated to Sri Lanka’s economic progress. Attendees included Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, Sunil Handunnetti; Chairman of the Board of Investment of Sri Lanka; Senior Adviser to the President on Economic, Duminda Hulangamuwa; Director General Dr. J.G.L. Sulakshana Jayawardena; Chairman of the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau, Saman Jayasinghe; Director General N. Bandara; Chairman of Sri Lanka Mineral Sands Association, Mangala P.B. Yapa; and Vice Chairman Elian Winston Gunawardena, alongside other esteemed members of the SLMSA.
The discussions mark a resolute step forward in positioning Sri Lanka’s mineral industry as a cornerstone of the nation’s future economic prosperity, guided by the forward-looking National Mineral Policy 2026.
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