Minister Herath highlights strong gains one year into AKD’s Presidency

FOREIGN Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Minister Vijitha Herath yesterday said that one year after President Anura Kumara Disanayake assumed office, Sri Lanka’s economy is on a steady path of recovery, supported by sound macroeconomic fundamentals and targeted reforms.

- BY CHARUMINI DE SILVA

Addressing the post-Cabinet meeting media briefing, Herath pointed to key indicators showing resilience.

"Workers' remittances during the first half of 2025 have surged past $ 3.7 billion, while tourism earnings in the same period topped $ 1.7 billion. Exports, despite global trade headwinds, have grown to nearly $ 10 billion in the first seven months," he said, responding to journalists.

On trade policy, he said Sri Lanka will continue to maintain a 20% US reciprocal tariff and offset potential challenges through zero-tariff access for apparel exports to the UK starting next year.