“Strengthening Tamil Regions in 2026: Government Plans, Fiscal Discipline, and the Road to Self-Determination”

Sri Lankan Government’s Plans for the Northern and Eastern Provinces in 2026: Customs, Economic Stabilization, Anti-Corruption, Digitalization, and Presidential Policy

Editor’s Note

This section reflects an advocacy-oriented perspective contributed by members of the Tamil diaspora who emphasize governance reform, financial discipline, and regional development as foundational steps toward long-term political aspirations. It is included to contextualize community-driven expectations for public administration in the Northern, Eastern, and Central (Malaiyagam) Provinces.

Disclaimer

This section represents the analytical and advocacy views of the contributing researcher. It does not constitute legal advice, does not claim to represent the official position of any government or institution, and should be interpreted within the broader context of public policy analysis and community development discourse.

Methodology

This advocacy section was developed using:

• Review of public budget documents and provincial development allocations available through Sri Lankan government portals.
• Analysis of governance and corruption‑prevention frameworks referenced in national policy statements.
• Diaspora perspectives on regional development priorities, gathered through community consultations and public commentary.
• Comparative analysis of provincial fund utilization patterns from previous years.
• Normative governance principles, including transparency, accountability, and equitable development.

The methodology combines descriptive research, policy analysis, and community-informed recommendations.

Call to Action: Strengthening Tamil Regional Governance Through Full and Honest Utilization of Public Funds

A recurring concern across the Northern, Eastern, and Central (Malaiyagam) Provinces is the chronic underutilization, misallocation, or leakage of development funds intended for Tamil-majority regions. This pattern has historically weakened infrastructure, slowed economic recovery, and undermined public trust.

To address this, the report urges Tamil politicians, ministers, provincial officials, and administrative authorities to adopt a unified, disciplined, and transparent approach to public finance management in 2026 and beyond.

1. Accurate Targeting of Budgets

Provincial and local authorities must:

• Conduct needs-based assessments to ensure that budget allocations match the actual development priorities of each district.
• Strengthen project planning frameworks to avoid delays, cost overruns, and politically motivated diversions.
• Ensure that community consultations are integrated into the budgeting process.

2. 100% Utilization of Allocated Funds

Full utilization of development funds is essential for:

• Completing long-delayed infrastructure projects.
• Improving public services such as health, education, transportation, and fisheries.
• Demonstrating administrative competence and readiness for greater devolved powers.

Underutilization of funds has historically been used as justification for reducing future allocations. Ensuring full utilization protects the region’s fiscal credibility.

3. Zero Tolerance for Corruption and Misappropriation

The report emphasizes:

• Strict adherence to procurement guidelines.
• Transparent tendering processes.
• Independent monitoring and auditing mechanisms.
• Public disclosure of project progress and expenditures.

Corruption not only drains resources but also weakens the political legitimacy of Tamil leadership at a critical historical moment.

4. Building the Foundations for Tamil Regional Governance

Effective, transparent, and accountable administration is the first structural step toward:

• Strengthening Tamil self-governance capacity.
• Demonstrating readiness for expanded devolved powers.
• Advancing the long-term collective goal of the right to self-determination for the Tamil people, as articulated by many Tamil civil society groups and diaspora communities.

Good governance is not merely a technical requirement — it is a political foundation.

5. A Collective Responsibility

The report calls for:

• Collaboration between elected representatives, civil servants, community leaders, and diaspora experts.
• A shared commitment to clean administration, developmental discipline, and regional empowerment.
• A unified vision that aligns with broader Tamil political aspirations while remaining grounded in practical, measurable governance reforms.

Research Contribution

Research by: Wimal Navaratnam, Canada
Date: December 30, 2025

Introduction

The Northern and Eastern Provinces of Sri Lanka, historically shaped by decades of conflict and underdevelopment, are now at the forefront of the government’s 2026 national renewal agenda. This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the Sri Lankan Government’s plans for these provinces, focusing on Sri Lanka Customs’ revenue performance, region-specific reforms, anti-corruption and modernization efforts, digitalization initiatives, and presidential policy directions. Drawing on official budget documents, strategic plans, summit reports, and public statements, the report examines how national-level economic stabilization strategies and targeted investments are being leveraged to foster inclusive growth, institutional integrity, and digital transformation in the North and East. The analysis integrates the latest available data, program details, and stakeholder perspectives to offer a nuanced understanding of the government’s approach to regional development in 2026.

Sri Lanka Customs Revenue Performance and Region-Specific Initiatives

National Revenue Performance: 2025-2026

Sri Lanka Customs has emerged as a cornerstone of the government’s fiscal recovery strategy, achieving record-breaking revenue performance in 2025 and setting ambitious targets for 2026. In the first eight months of 2025, tax revenue increased by 30.7% to Rs. 3,068.5 billion, surpassing the IMF-EFF Quantitative Performance Criterion (QPC) of Rs. 2,750 billion by Rs. 318.5 billion. VAT revenue rose by 28.7% to Rs. 1,084.2 billion, with import VAT increasing by 38.3% to Rs. 516.8 billion, largely due to the lifting of vehicle import restrictions. Excise duty revenue increased by 57.6% to Rs. 607.9 billion, driven by a 640.5% increase in motor vehicle excise duty. Import duties rose by 117.5% to Rs. 151.0 billion, and CESS revenue from international trade increased by 8.8% to Rs. 56.5 billion.

The Director General of Sri Lanka Customs reported that the department exceeded its expected revenue target of Rs. 2,115 billion in 2025, entering 2026 with a surplus of approximately Rs. 300 billion¹. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake commended Customs for its vital role in stabilizing the economy, emphasizing the need for continued efficiency, transparency, and collective effort to achieve the 2026 revenue target of Rs. 2,550 billion.

Table 1: Sri Lanka Customs Revenue Performance (Jan-Aug 2025)

Revenue Source	Amount (Rs. Billion)	Growth (%)
Tax Revenue	3,068.5	+30.7
VAT (Total)	1,084.2	+28.7
VAT (Import)	516.8	+38.3
Excise Duty	607.9	+57.6
Import Duties	151.0	+117.5
CESS	56.5	+8.8

The surge in Customs revenue is attributed to policy reforms, administrative improvements, and the resumption of economic activities. The removal of import restrictions on motor vehicles and CESS-levied items, coupled with higher VAT rates and a reduced registration threshold, contributed to increased collections.

Regional Customs Operations and Initiatives

While explicit regional breakdowns are limited, the increase in vehicle imports and Customs revenue implies enhanced operations at regional entry points, including ports in the Eastern Province. The government has prioritized the development of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in the East, such as the Eravur Textile Manufacturing Zone, where Customs modernization supports value-added re-exports and entrepôt trading activities.

In the Northern Province, the activation of export processing zones in Jaffna, Kankesanturai, and Kilinochchi, Paranthan marks a significant step toward regional economic integration. These zones, inaugurated with substantial investment from the Canadian Sri Lanka Business Convention and the Board of Investment (BOI), are expected to generate employment and boost exports, with Customs playing a key role in facilitating trade and ensuring compliance ².

Table 2: Region-Specific Customs Initiatives (2025-2026)

Initiative/Location	Description	Status/Timeline
Eravur SEZ (Eastern Province)	Customs modernization for textile exports	Ongoing (2025-2026)
Jaffna KKS Export Zone	Customs facilitation for export industries	Launched (2025)
Kilinochchi Paranthan Zone	Customs support for manufacturing/export	Launched (2025)

These initiatives are complemented by Customs’ efforts to streamline clearance processes, implement digital cargo inspection systems, and enhance risk management at regional ports and airports ³.

National Economic Stabilization Strategies and Regional Impact

Medium-Term Fiscal Strategy and Public Investment

The government’s medium-term fiscal strategy (2025-2030) aims to achieve a primary surplus of ≥2.3% of GDP in 2026, a revenue-to-GDP ratio of 15.4%, and maintain public investment at ≥4% of GDP. The budget deficit is targeted to remain below 5% of GDP from 2026 onward, with the debt-to-GDP ratio projected to decline from 96.8% in 2026 to 87% by 2030.

The Public Investment Programme (PIP) 2026-2030 outlines a focused investment strategy to address barriers to inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth. Total public investment planned for 2026-2030 is Rs. 8,583 billion, with 49% allocated to physical infrastructure (roads, ports, housing), 6% to agriculture, and Rs. 455 billion to regional development.

Table 3: Public Investment Programme (PIP) 2026-2030 - Key Allocations

Sector	Cumulative Allocation (LKR Mn)
Roads	2,253,581
Port and Aviation	55,797
Housing	124,723
Urban Development	245,963
Governance	704,010
Regional Development	455,075

Regional Development Focus: Northern and Eastern Provinces

The government prioritizes the development of lagging provinces, specifically Northern, Eastern, and Uva, emphasizing livelihood infrastructure, economic base strengthening, and self-sufficiency in income and employment. The estate population in the Eastern Province is to be recognized and treated equally, with targeted investments in housing, fisheries, and agriculture.

Key infrastructure projects in the North and East include the development of Myliddy Fishery Harbour, fisheries industry development, estate housing programs, and improvement of beach and tourism facilities. The Northern Investment Summit 2026 (NIS26) serves as a catalyst for unlocking the region’s potential, bringing together government leaders, investors, and development agencies to promote strategic investments in agriculture, fisheries, education, IT, tourism, and energy⁴⁵.

Table 4: Key Regional Projects (2026-2030)

Project/Initiative	Region	Sector	Timeline	Implementing Agency
Myliddy Fishery Harbour Development	Northern	Fisheries	2026-2030	Ministry of Fisheries
Fisheries Community Development	Northern/Eastern	Fisheries	2026-2030	Ministry of Fisheries
Estate Housing Programme	Eastern	Housing	2026-2030	Ministry of Plantation and Community Infrastructure
Infrastructure Development in Estate Sector	Eastern	Housing/Infrastructure	2026-2030	Ministry of Plantation and Community Infrastructure
Export Processing Zones (Jaffna, Kilinochchi)	Northern	Manufacturing/Export	Launched 2025	BOI, Provincial Council

Budget Allocations and Social Investments

The 2026 budget includes substantial allocations for infrastructure, housing, welfare, and human capital development in the Northern and Eastern Provinces. Rs. 5,000 million is allocated for the construction of 2,500 houses for families affected by conflict in these provinces, and Rs. 3,350 million for port improvement in the Eastern Province. Additional funds are provided for road construction, irrigation schemes, Mahapola scholarships, school nutrition programs, and welfare for differently abled persons.

Table 5: Selected Budget Allocations (2026)

Program/Project	Allocation (Rs. Million)	Region
Housing for conflict-affected	5,000	North/East
Port improvement (Eastern)	3,350	Eastern
Road construction (rural)	24,000	National/Regional
Mahapola scholarships	Increased by Rs. 2,500	National/Regional
Welfare for differently abled	19,000	National/Regional

These investments are designed to address regional disparities, promote inclusive growth, and enhance the quality of life for residents in the Northern and Eastern Provinces.

Anti-Corruption Measures and Customs Modernization

National Anti-Corruption Action Plan (NACAP) 2025-2029

The National Anti-Corruption Action Plan (NACAP) 2025-2029, approved by Cabinet and overseen by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC), represents a whole-of-government approach to eradicating corruption and fostering integrity⁶. The plan is structured around four core strategies: preventive measures, education and community engagement, institutional strengthening and enforcement, and law and policy reforms.

President Dissanayake’s message underscores the government’s commitment to building a modern, economically resilient state grounded in transparency, responsibility, and accountability. The Clean Sri Lanka program and the NACAP emphasize ethical objectives, with a focus on improving lives in remote villages and ensuring that all citizens contribute to state revenue⁷.

Table 6: NACAP Strategic Priority Areas

Strategic Area	Description
Preventive Measures	Reduce corruption risks, promote ethical practices
Education & Community Engagement	Empower citizens, value-based education
Institutional Strengthening	Enhance capacity of CIABOC and law enforcement agencies
Law & Policy Reform	Strengthen anti-corruption laws and policies

Customs-Specific Anti-Corruption and Institutional Reforms

Sri Lanka Customs has implemented a range of anti-corruption measures, including the establishment of an Internal Affairs Unit, automated risk management systems (ARMS), digitalization clusters, and the CUSDEC Tracking System. These reforms are aligned with NACAP objectives and aim to improve transparency, reduce revenue leakages, and foster a culture of integrity.

Key actions for Customs include conducting corruption risk assessments, implementing e-procurement systems, creating procurement red flag systems connected to CIABOC, and organizing annual anti-corruption training for staff⁷. The Internal Affairs Unit is tasked with investigating public complaints and promoting ethical institutional culture, with quarterly progress reports published on the Ministry of Finance website since August 2025.

Table 7: Customs Anti-Corruption Measures

Measure/Action	Description	Timeline	Lead Agency
Internal Affairs Unit	Investigate complaints, promote integrity	Ongoing	Sri Lanka Customs
Automated Risk Management System	Digital risk profiling, reduce manual review	Implemented 2025	Sri Lanka Customs
E-Procurement System	Transparent procurement processes	2025-2026	Ministry of Finance
Anti-Corruption Training	Staff capacity building	2025-2026	CIABOC

Customs trade unions have begun collaborating with management to combat corruption, indicating a positive shift in institutional culture.

Monitoring, Transparency, and Reporting

The NACAP mandates annual reporting to Parliament, the creation of an Annual Integrity Index to evaluate government institutions, and feedback mechanisms from civil society, private sector, and the public⁷. CIABOC’s permanent unit coordinates implementation and publishes annual reports, with stakeholder consultations held in all provinces, including the North and East.

Quarterly financial performance reports and progress dashboards are published under the Public Financial Management Act (PFMA), enhancing transparency and accountability in revenue collection and expenditure.

Digitalization and Institutional Development Initiatives

Customs Digitalization Programs

Sri Lanka Customs is undergoing a major digital transformation, with the implementation of the ASYHUB cloud-native platform, developed under the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) ASYCUDA Program⁸. ASYHUB facilitates seamless data integration between Customs systems and external stakeholders, including shipping lines, freight forwarders, and port authorities. The platform enhances efficiency, transparency, and compliance in maritime trade operations by providing end-to-end visibility, improved risk management, and streamlined communication.

As of May 2025, the exclusive use of ASYHUB for cargo manifest submissions has been mandated, marking a significant step in modernizing Customs processes and aligning with international standards for digital trade facilitation³. Awareness sessions and training programs have been conducted for BOI enterprises, logistics operators, and courier service providers to ensure smooth adoption of the platform⁸.

Table 8: Customs Digitalization Initiatives

Initiative/Platform	Description	Status/Timeline
ASYHUB	Cloud-native platform for cargo manifests	Mandated May 2025
CUSDEC Tracking System	Digital tracking of Customs declarations	Implemented 2025
Vehicle Verification Portal	Online verification of vehicle imports	Implemented 2025
Integration with ITMIS/e-GP	Centralized payments, e-procurement	Planned by 2026

These digitalization efforts are expected to minimize human interaction, reduce opportunities for discretionary intervention, and mitigate bribery and corruption risks⁸.

Broader Institutional Reforms

The government has established the Public Debt Management Office (PDMO) under the Public Debt Management Act, No. 33 of 2024, and mandated the publication of fiscal strategy, mid-year, and final budget reports under the PFMA. The launch of GovPay in January 2025 provides a centralized payment platform for secure, cashless government transactions, while the National Data Exchange Platform facilitates real-time, secure data sharing.

Medium-term digital targets include achieving 95% digital literacy, a digitally skilled workforce of 200,000, 90% online government services, and 90% broadband penetration by 2030.

Table 9: Medium-Term Digital Targets (2030)

Target	Value by 2030
ICT exports	USD 5 billion
Digital ecosystem contribution	USD 15 billion
Digital literacy	95%
Digitally skilled workforce	200,000
Government services online	90%
Broadband penetration	90%
Digitalized transactions	20%

Investment priority areas include strengthening digital infrastructure, e-government services, digital revenue generation, and cybersecurity.

Human Capital, Recruitment, and Capacity Building

Customs faces challenges related to staff shortages, professional development, and negative public image. The strategic plan emphasizes the need for a training academy, attractive salary and incentive schemes, and merit-based promotion systems. The 2026 budget allocates Rs. 110 billion for the second phase of public sector salary revisions, with salaries to be paid commencing January 2026.

Capacity building initiatives include anti-corruption training, digital skills development, and partnerships with international organizations such as the World Customs Organization (WCO), World Trade Organization (WTO), Asian Development Bank (ADB), and UNCTAD.

Presidential Policy Directions and Collective National Efforts

Vision and Governance

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has articulated a development vision centered on inclusive growth, transparency, and collective national efforts. The National Development Policy Framework - ‘A Thriving Nation: A Beautiful Life’ emphasizes evidence-based planning, adaptive management, and the integration of lagging regions into the national economy⁷.

Presidential statements highlight the importance of unity among Customs employees, the need for modern organizational structures, and the imperative to evolve laws and institutions to meet contemporary challenges. The President has called for collective action to achieve the 2026 revenue target, facilitate operations at Sri Lanka Port, and improve the quality of life for citizens.

Table 10: Presidential Policy Directions (2025-2026)

Policy/Statement	Key Focus Areas	Regional Relevance
Fiscal Strategy Statement (FSS)	Inclusive growth, digital economy, regional development	North/East included
Clean Sri Lanka Program	Transparency, integrity, anti-corruption	National/Regional
Northern Investment Summit	Empowering growth, innovation, partnerships	Northern Province

The President’s engagement with Customs, recognition of outstanding officers, and support for structural reforms underscore the government’s commitment to institutional excellence and national progress.

Northern Investment Summit 2026 and Regional Empowerment

The Northern Investment Summit 2026 (NIS26), held under the theme “Empowering Growth, Insightful Innovations,” is a landmark initiative designed to catalyze investment, entrepreneurship, and inclusive development in the Northern Province⁴⁵. The summit brings together government leaders, private-sector executives, investors, diplomats, development partners, and academia to unlock the region’s potential in agriculture, fisheries, education, IT, tourism, and energy.

NIS26 focuses on four strategic pillars: agriculture and fisheries, education and IT, tourism, and energy, strengthened by SME and startup ecosystems. Infrastructure development, policy innovation, and public-private partnerships are central to the summit’s agenda, with strong backing from the Ministry of Industry, Ministry of Finance, BOI, Export Development Board, and other state institutions.

The summit aims to institutionalize a Northern Investment Desk for continuous investor facilitation, publish an annual Northern Investment Forum, and establish a digital platform to showcase live investment opportunities. These measures are expected to deliver measurable results, including investment commitments, strengthened partnerships, and greater market access for regional MSMEs.

Customs Role in Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and Legal Reforms

Customs modernization is closely linked to the development of SEZs, particularly in the Eastern Province. Amendments to the Strategic Development Projects Act and the Colombo Port City Economic Commission Act provide rule-based investment incentives, supporting export diversification and trade facilitation.

Customs is expected to implement digital cargo inspection and risk management systems, streamline clearance processes, and support value-added re-exports and entrepôt trading activities. The activation of export processing zones in the Northern Province, with substantial investment from international partners, further enhances the region’s integration into national and global value chains².

Legal reforms include the consolidation and enactment of the Proceeds of Crime Act, alignment of beneficial ownership requirements with FATF standards, and the implementation of automated systems for AML monitoring⁷.

Trade Facilitation Measures and Impact on Regional Trade Flows

Sri Lanka’s commitment to the World Trade Organization’s Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) is reflected in the approval of the Roadmap for Trade Facilitation and the Trade Facilitation Action Plan 2025-2028⁹. These initiatives prioritize the completion of remaining obligations under the TFA, focus on improving the efficiency of Customs procedures, reducing delays, and enhancing coordination between relevant institutions.

The UN Global Survey on Digital and Sustainable Trade Facilitation (2025) indicates significant progress in paperless trade, risk management, pre-arrival processing, post-clearance audits, and expedited shipments¹⁰. Automated Customs systems, e-submission of declarations, and e-payment platforms are operational, with ongoing efforts to enhance cross-border paperless trade and SME participation.

Trade facilitation measures have led to increased import volumes, higher VAT and import duty collections, and improved trade efficiency. The lifting of import restrictions on motor vehicles and CESS-levied items has further stimulated regional trade flows, particularly in the North and East.

Civil Society, Private Sector, and Diaspora Engagement

The government has introduced a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Law to enable private sector participation in infrastructure and public services, with emphasis on diaspora engagement through embassies and digital access to documents. The Northern Investment Summit 2026 exemplifies the integration of civil society, private sector, and diaspora in regional development, with strong support from international business councils, local entrepreneurs, and community organizations.

Stakeholder consultations for the NACAP were held in all provinces, including the North and East, ensuring inclusive policy formulation and ownership⁷. The summit’s focus on SME empowerment, innovation ecosystems, and community impact reflects a commitment to broad-based development and social inclusion.

Monitoring, Transparency, and Reporting

The Public Financial Management Act (PFMA) mandates the publication of fiscal strategy statements, budget reports, mid-year and final budget position reports, and quarterly financial performance updates. Key performance indicators (KPIs) have been introduced for revenue departments, with VAT compliance improvement programs leading to a 44.5% increase in VAT registrations.

The NACAP requires annual reporting to Parliament, the creation of an Annual Integrity Index, and feedback channels from civil society, private sector, and the public⁷. The PIP 2026-2030 adopts a rolling plan approach with annual review and adjustment, transparent benchmarks, and stakeholder assessment of progress.

Institutional Actors and Governance

A wide array of institutional actors and governance structures are involved in the implementation of regional development, Customs modernization, anti-corruption, and digitalization initiatives.

Table 11: Key Institutional Actors

Institution/Official	Role
Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Dev	Budget preparation, fiscal strategy, anti-corruption oversight
Sri Lanka Customs	Revenue collection, digitalization, anti-corruption
Inland Revenue Department	Tax administration, digitalization, compliance
Excise Department	Revenue collection, anti-corruption
CIABOC	Anti-corruption investigations and enforcement
Public Debt Management Office (PDMO)	Debt strategy and borrowing management
Ministry of Digital Economy	Implementation of digital infrastructure and services
Presidential Secretariat	Policy direction, Clean Sri Lanka Programme
Board of Investment (BOI)	Investment promotion, SEZ development
Provincial Councils (Northern/Eastern)	Regional development, project implementation

Summary Table: Key Initiatives Relevant to Northern and Eastern Provinces

Initiative/Program	Timeline	Implementing Agency	Regional Relevance
Public Investment Program (PIP)	2026-2030	Ministry of Finance	Infrastructure in North/East
Customs Digitalization (ASYHUB, CUSDEC)	2025-2026	Sri Lanka Customs	National, with regional impact
Anti-Corruption Action Plan (NACAP)	2025-2029	CIABOC, Ministry of Finance	National, includes regional offices
Aswesuma Welfare Program	2025-2026	Ministry of Finance	Targeted at vulnerable populations
Public Debt Management Office (PDMO)	2024-2026	Ministry of Finance	National fiscal stability
PFMA Implementation	Full by 2025	Ministry of Finance	National, includes regional reporting
Infrastructure Investment (Roads, Water)	2025-2026	RDA, NWSDB	Includes North/East allocations
Education and Health Infrastructure	2025-2026	Ministry of Education, Health	National, includes North/East
PPP Law and SEZ Legal Reforms	2025-2026	Ministry of Finance, BOI	Potential SEZs in East
Northern Investment Summit 2026	Jan 2026	TMC, BOI, Provincial Council	Northern Province
Export Processing Zones	2025-2026	BOI, Provincial Council	Northern Province

Conclusion

The Sri Lankan Government’s 2026 economic strategy integrates robust national reforms with targeted regional initiatives to foster inclusive growth, institutional integrity, and digital transformation in the Northern and Eastern Provinces. Sri Lanka Customs has demonstrated exceptional revenue performance, supported by modernization, digitalization, and anti-corruption measures. The activation of export processing zones, infrastructure investments, and the Northern Investment Summit signal a new era of opportunity for the North and East, with strong engagement from government, private sector, and diaspora.

National-level economic stabilization strategies, anchored in the Public Investment Programme and fiscal discipline, provide a framework for sustainable development and resilience. The NACAP and Clean Sri Lanka program underscore the government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and ethical governance, with Customs playing a pivotal role in trade facilitation and institutional reform.

Digitalization initiatives, including the ASYHUB platform and GovPay, are transforming Customs operations and public service delivery, while capacity building and human capital development address longstanding challenges in recruitment, training, and organizational culture.

Presidential policy directions emphasize collective national efforts, unity, and evidence-based planning, with a clear focus on integrating lagging regions into the national economy. The Northern Investment Summit 2026 exemplifies the government’s approach to regional empowerment, innovation, and sustainable development.

While region-specific data remains limited, the alignment of national digitalization, anti-corruption, and infrastructure investment initiatives with regional development goals suggests a concerted effort to integrate the Northern and Eastern Provinces into Sri Lanka’s broader economic recovery and modernization agenda. The success of these initiatives will depend on sustained political will, stakeholder collaboration, and adaptive management, ensuring that the North and East become engines of national progress and prosperity.

     In solidarity,

     Wimal Navaratnam

     Human Rights Advocate | ABC Tamil Oli (ECOSOC)

      Email: tamilolicanada@gmail.com

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