OPA urges focused reforms in Budget 2026 to drive stability, growth and equity

Calls for National Investment Facilitation Authority and Digital Land Bank to attract FDI

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• Proposes National Green Energy Fund and Govt.-backed Green Bonds to accelerate renewable transition

• Seeks SME Export Fund, tax holidays and concessional loans to boost small exporters

• Urges unified tourism branding and infrastructure fund to promote high-value, experiential travel

THE Organisation of Professional Associations (OPA) has submitted a comprehensive set of proposals for the 2026 National Budget, outlining measures to strengthen fiscal stability, revive growth, and ensure equitable development. The recommendations, representing

the views of 52 professional bodies and over 60,000 members, were presented to Treasury Secretary Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma following consultations with a multidisciplinary committee appointed by the OPA.

The OPA proposal document is as follows:

Background

President Anura Kumara Disanayake, OPA President Sujeewa Lal Dahanayake presenting the maiden Budget of the National People’s Power (NPP) Government last February, stated: “A Budget is not just a set of revenue and expenditure proposals for the upcoming year, it is also a reflection of the Government’s approach to building the economy and overall policy.”

Taking a cue from this perspective, the OPA appointed a Committee of its members with multidisciplinary expertise.

The proposals formulated by the Committee were presented to Treasury Secretary Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma on 12 September.
The OPA delegation had a cordial, constructive consultation with the Secretary.
These proposals reflect viewpoints of 52 professional associations, 34 disciplines, and over 60,000 professionals of the OPA.

Objective
The Budget proposals were formulated with the aim of reaching the following Government priorities.

Stability
Meeting International Monetary Fund (IMF) and fiscal targets.

Growth