The government’s decision to raise fuel prices at midnight on March 9 has drawn criticism from observers who say the move contradicts earlier assurances that prices would remain stable for at least a month due to sufficient reserves already imported.

The surprise revision in fuel prices has triggered public concern and renewed debate over the government’s fuel pricing policy, with critics accusing authorities of misleading the public about the stability of supply and prices.

Officials had earlier sought to calm fears of potential shortages or sudden price increases, insisting that the country had adequate fuel stocks secured through prior imports. However, the latest price hike has raised questions about the reliability of those assurances.

Economic analysts say the development reflects the continuing vulnerability of Sri Lanka’s fuel market to global price volatility and geopolitical tensions affecting energy supply chains.

Aminda Methsila Perera, an economics professor at Wayamba University of Sri Lanka, said the latest move raises broader questions about the transparency of the government’s pricing strategy.

“The question arises whether the government is following a grey-market policy in this regard,” Prof. Perera said, suggesting that the manner in which prices are adjusted may not fully reflect a transparent or predictable formula.

Meanwhile, directors of the state-run Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) defended the decision, saying the increase was a pre-emptive measure aimed at cushioning the country from steeper price shocks in the near future.

A CPC director argued yesterday that implementing a moderate price revision now would allow authorities to manage potential increases more effectively should the international situation deteriorate further.

Meanwhile, an analyst said that the move was intended to preserve the financial stability of the CPC and its bottom line although President AKD had said in parliament that the Treasury had enough funds to mitigate global shocks.

However, they say the abrupt nature of the midnight announcement risks undermining public confidence, particularly after repeated assurances that prices would remain unchanged in the short term.

With global energy markets remaining volatile, analysts warn that further price adjustments cannot be ruled out if international crude prices continue to climb or if regional supply disruptions intensify.

Meanwhile, an economist said that with the unfolding scenario, many Sri Lankans already grappling with the rising cost of living, have been tossed to the fire from the frying pan.

By Sanath Nanayakkare

In celebration of International Women’s Day 2026, Havelock City Mall (HCM) hosted what is believed to be one of Sri Lanka’s first women-only cinema screenings, presenting a culturally significant and deeply meaningful tribute to womanhood.

Held at Scope Cinemas, Havelock City Mall, the exclusive event featured a complimentary screening of the iconic Sri Lankan film Gahanu Lamai, and welcomed an audience comprising corporate invitees, celebrities, female staff of Havelock City Mall, and winners of a special social media contest.

The occasion was further distinguished by the presence of Dr. Ranee Jayamaha, Chairperson of Overseas Realty (Ceylon) PLC, who graced the event and added significance to this special celebration.

Guests arrived dressed in purple, the internationally recognised symbol of dignity, solidarity, and justice, reinforcing the spirit and symbolism of the occasion. Through the screening of Gahanu Lamai—the acclaimed work of the late Dr. Sumitra Peiris, Sri Lanka’s first female film director—Havelock City Mall created a platform for reflection on the enduring cultural and contemporary relevance of women’s stories.

Commenting on the initiative, Mrs. Avanthie De Zoysa, Assistant General Manager of Havelock City Mall, stated:

“As a female manager of this organization, I am incredibly proud of this initiative. It is a heartfelt gesture of appreciation for the women who contribute so tirelessly to their families, to our society, and to the country at large. We wanted to provide a space that wasn’t just about celebration, but about acknowledging the profound impact women have in every sphere of life.”

Sri Lanka’s economic resurgence is taking center stage as the nation prepares to host the Sri Lanka Investment Forum 2026. Backed by a foundation of stable macroeconomics and disciplined policy reform, the Board of Investment (BOI) will partner with the European Union, the Asian Development Bank, and UN ESCAP to be organized on 30th March 2026 at Cinnamon Life to showcase a renewed landscape of investor confidence and high-growth opportunities.

The forum aims to establish Sri Lanka as a center for sustainable, high-value, and technology-driven growth in the wake of its economic recovery. The forum is designed to connect global investors, multinational corporations, development finance institutions, and hedge funds with a country that is redefining its focus on high-value, sustainable, and technology-driven growth. The Forum, which is themed “Investing in Sri Lanka’s Green and Connected Future,” will emphasize the attractive opportunities that investors have in projects that combine environmental stewardship with regional and global connectivity.

 The nation of Sri Lanka is in a favorable position within the global movement toward sustainable supply chains, technology-driven industries, and climate-resilient growth due to its strategic location along some of the world’s busiest maritime trade routes, as well as its ambitious renewable energy initiatives and emerging digital infrastructure.

 The ‘Invest in Sri Lanka’ forum is positioned as one of the most significant investment gatherings in South Asia, offering the opportunity to engage directly with a country on the cusp of transformation. For those seeking early access to high-growth markets and meaningful investment partnerships, the message is unequivocal: Sri Lanka’s next growth chapter is unfolding, and the time to engage is NOW. Click on srilankainvestmentforum.com to register. (BOI)