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Sri Lanka’s September 2024 Merchandise Exports Decline by 3.5%

Sri Lanka’s September 2024 Merchandise Exports Decline by 3.5%

Sri Lanka’s merchandise exports in September 2024 reached $937.95 million. This marks a 3.49% drop from the same month last year. The decline stems from the ongoing economic recession and global market contraction.

These factors have hurt the country’s export trade. The export slump has widened the trade deficit. This highlights the need for policy reforms to boost export competitiveness and diversify products.

Sri Lanka's September 2024 Merchandise Exports Decline by 3.5%

Services exports showed a positive trend in September 2024. They increased by 6.08% to $329.89 million compared to 2023. However, the total value of merchandise and services exports fell by 1.17% from last year.

The export sector is vital for Sri Lanka’s economy. It generates foreign exchange and creates jobs. In 2023, Sri Lanka’s GDP was $84.36 billion in nominal terms.

The GDP in purchasing power parity terms was $318.55 billion. Forecasts predict a growth rate of 4.4% for the fiscal year 2024.

Export Performance in September 2024

Sri Lanka’s exports faced hurdles in September 2024. Merchandise exports fell by 3.49% to $937.95 million. The apparel and textile sectors slowed, while logistics and currency issues added to the decline.

Services exports grew by 6.08% to $329.89 million compared to September 2023. This growth helped balance some merchandise sector losses. It shows the value of diversifying exports.

Total Exports Decline by 1.17%

Total exports reached $1,267.84 million in September 2024. This marks a 1.17% drop from 2023. The fall in merchandise exports caused this overall decline.

Lower earnings from tea, rubber products, electronics, and seafood contributed to the decrease. The government introduced the Export Development Reward Scheme to tackle these issues.

This scheme rewards exporters for increasing their export volumes. Large exporters get a 2% reward, while SMEs receive 3.5%. The aim is to boost export earnings by $600 million.

These initiatives offer hope for a stronger export sector. They encourage value addition and product diversity. This approach could help Sri Lanka navigate current challenges and build a more resilient future.

Major Exports with Positive Growth

Several key sectors in Sri Lanka showed growth despite overall export decline in September 2024. Apparel and textile exports rose 15.71% to $418.68 million. This was mainly due to a 36.87% increase in exports to the US market.

Coconut-based products grew 10.36% compared to last year. Coconut kernel products increased by 9.29%, while fiber products rose 9.39%. Remarkably, coconut shell products surged by 814.8%.

Spices and Concentrates Exports Soar

Spices and concentrates exports grew 26.39% to $48.04 million. Pepper exports increased by 43.91%, while cinnamon rose 16.34%. Food and beverages exports also grew 8.78% to $33.21 million.

Processed food showed significant growth of 69.41%. This sector’s performance contributed to the overall positive trend in exports.

ICT Exports and Logistics Services Poised for Growth

The ICT sector is expected to grow despite economic challenges. ICT exports may increase 28.66% to $150.28 million in September 2024.

Logistics and transport services could grow 24.94% to $158.4 million. These sectors show resilience and potential in current economic conditions.

Major Exports with Negative Growth

Key sectors of Sri Lanka’s export economy saw negative growth in September 2024. Tea exports fell 2.44% to $117.03 million. Bulk tea exports dropped by 10.26%.

Rubber and rubber finished products exports decreased 4.1% to $79.5 million. Pneumatic and retreated rubber tires and tubes declined 12.19%. The electrical and electronics components sector plummeted 27.73% to $28.1 million.

Seafood exports plunged 42.18% to $14.83 million. Frozen fish, fresh fish, and shrimps all performed poorly. Ornamental fish exports fell 14.23% to $2.17 million. Other export crops declined 73.57%.

These declines contributed to a 3.5% decrease in Sri Lanka’s merchandise exports. The country has an untapped export potential of $10 billion annually. This could create about 142,500 new jobs.

Global economic challenges have impacted Sri Lanka’s export performance. Despite this, the country still has significant growth opportunities in various sectors.

Cumulative Export Performance from January to September 2024

Sri Lanka’s merchandise exports grew 5.07% from January to September 2024. The total value reached $9,437.11 million, surpassing the same period in 2023. Apparel, tea, rubber, coconut, and spice sectors drove this growth.

Services exports also increased by 8.03%, totaling $2,577.22 million. The combined merchandise and services exports rose to $12,014.33 million. This marked a 73.24% increase compared to the previous year.

However, some sectors faced declines. Electrical components, seafood, and ornamental fish exports showed negative growth during this period.

Sri Lanka’s export performance showed resilience in key sectors despite global challenges. The apparel and textile industry played a crucial role in driving merchandise exports growth.

Moving forward, maintaining momentum in thriving sectors is crucial. Addressing challenges in declining industries will help sustain overall export growth. This strategy will strengthen Sri Lanka’s trade balance in the coming months.

Sri Lanka’s Netball Team Remains Undefeated Until Final

Sri Lanka’s Netball Team Remains Undefeated Until Final

In the thrilling world of international tournaments, Sri Lanka’s Netball Team shone unmatched, making it to the final moments of the 2024 season. Their amazing performance and teamwork led to many victories, putting Sri Lankan sports in the spotlight worldwide. Even without a full-time coach or some key players, they stayed focused on winning. The team from Hatton National Bank also showcased incredible resilience, winning championships with skill and determination.

Somitha Kumari stepped up as coach during the Netball Federation’s first Netball Ranking Tournament. Her strategies led to an exciting win in extra time. With a score of 54-52 against Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA), the team showed their determination and team spirit. Thanks to some smart changes and a big effort after halftime, they came back from being eight points down. This highlighted their dedication to netball success. Don’t miss out on the intense action.

Key Takeaways

  • The Sri Lankan netball team remains undefeated until the final in the 2024 season, showcasing exceptional team dynamics.
  • Despite challenges, HNB’s netball team clinched the Netball Federation’s inaugural Ranking Tournament.
  • Somitha Kumari displayed superior leadership, filling in as coach and guiding the team to victory.
  • A fierce comeback during the final showcased the strategic depth and resilience of Sri Lanka’s netball players.
  • The team’s success reflects the growing prominence of Sri Lankan sports in competitive netball circles.
  • In the face of adversity, the team’s undeterred spirit exemplifies the potential for continued success in future international tournaments.

Sri Lanka’s Netball Ascendancy: The Journey to an Undefeated Streak

Sri Lanka’s netball team has made an incredible comeback in the Asian netball circuit. After a time of not doing well, they have become champions again. They stayed unbeaten until the final in 2024.

Reclaiming the Asian Netball Crown

After facing challenges at the 2015 World Cup, Sri Lanka began their climb back to the top. Under coach Thilaka Jinadasa’s guidance, they won every game in the Asian championships. This amazing performance proved their strength and skill in netball.

Strategic Coaching Moves by Thilaka Jinadasa

Coach Thilaka Jinadasa helped the team focus and improve. Her strategies in training and gameplay made the team stronger. With her leadership, they played united and showed great skill, dominating their competitions.

The Powerhouse: Tharjini Sivalingam’s Stellar Performance

Tharjini Sivalingam’s performance was key to their success. Her skills, combined with Jinadasa’s coaching, made Sri Lanka a top team. This teamwork led them to international fame, with Sivalingam playing a vital role in their victories leading up to the 2024 final.

Their teamwork, strategic brilliance, and individual talent have boosted the team’s global image. They have also inspired a new love for netball in Sri Lanka, promising a bright future for the sport.

Sri Lanka’s Netball Team Remains Undefeated Until Final in 2024

Sri Lanka shines in international netball competitions with an unbeaten run to the finals in 2024. This streak didn’t happen by luck. It came through hard work and planning. The country’s push for sports excellence is clear. It aims to boost national skills and nurture new talent. Sri Lanka has always done well in sports. The netball team’s success in 2024 adds to the nation’s victories.

Gayanjali Amarawansa and Dulangi Wannithilake lead the team with years of experience. They’re preparing for the 2023 Netball World Cup in South Africa. It’s a big deal because it’s their 11th time in the event. The team has high hopes, remembering their top-ten finish. They’re currently training hard, including a key trip to Botswana.

Tharjini Sivalingam stands out on the team. As the world’s tallest netball player, she draws global attention. Her skill shows Sri Lanka’s dedication to netball. Support from sponsors like Dialog Axiata boosts the team’s morale. Selecting the team is a careful process. From a large pool, only the best are chosen. With the Asian Junior Netball Championship coming, the team is eyeing the World Junior Netball Championship. The future holds challenges, but Sri Lanka’s competitive spirit remains strong.

Sri Lanka’s Health Sector Crisis: Doctors Leave En Masse

Sri Lanka’s Health Sector Crisis: Doctors Leave En Masse

Sri Lanka’s healthcare system faces a big problem. A lot of doctors are moving away because they want better pay. This leaves a huge medical staff shortage and could lead to a public health emergency. In the last two years, over 1,700 doctors have left. This is almost 10% of all the doctors in the country. They’re leaving because of the country’s economic problems.

Last year, inflation in Sri Lanka hit a record 73%. This makes life hard for doctors. They’re dealing with bad work conditions and less money. This situation is getting worse. Now, the Government Medical Officers Association (GMOA) says about 100 rural hospitals might close.

Because many doctors are leaving, some surgeries cannot be done. 75% of emergency service doctors have also left. There are plans to fix this. First, they want countries hiring Sri Lankan doctors to pay some form of compensation. Also, they’re thinking of ways to make doctors stay. This includes making living and working in rural areas better.

The Catalysts Behind the Healthcare Exodus

The healthcare workforce migration from Sri Lanka is due to many reasons. These include economic troubles, soaring inflation, and a lack of healthcare policy improvements. It’s vital to know why this is happening. By understanding, we can work on keeping talent in the country.

Economic Downfall and Inflation Surge Impacting Medical Professionals

Sri Lanka’s economy is in bad shape, and this has hit medical workers hard. The value of the Sri Lankan rupee has fallen sharply. It went from Rs 200 to Rs 365 against the US dollar after March 2022. This drop means healthcare workers can buy less with their money. High inflation rates make this worse. Together, these factors lead many to leave in search of financial stability abroad. This situation is detailed at this link.

Lack of Government Support and Eroding Respect for Doctors

Doctors in Sri Lanka don’t get much help from the government. This makes things worse. Taxes on individuals have gone up a lot. Also, the government barely acknowledges the free work doctors do. This lack of respect and support makes doctors want to work in other countries. It adds to the problem of doctors leaving Sri Lanka.

International Recruitment Luring Healthcare Talent Abroad

While local problems continue, other countries are attracting Sri Lanka’s medical workers. Places like the United Kingdom offer good wages, better career growth, and nicer living conditions. These offers are tempting for many in Sri Lanka’s struggling health system. So, a lot of skilled healthcare workers decide to move for better chances.

Economic problems, little government help, and better chances abroad have caused a big healthcare worker exodus in Sri Lanka. To stop this, Sri Lanka must reform healthcare and manage resources better. Doing so is critical to keep healthcare workers in the country and to protect the nation’s health systems.

Strategies and Potential Solutions for Talent Retention and Sector Recovery

Sri Lanka is dealing with a health crisis and trying to keep its healthcare workers. They are also working on improving the healthcare sector. The Government Medical Officers Association suggests higher pay and more chances for career growth. This is especially for those working in hard-to-reach areas. Still, it’s tough to fight against the unfair treatment within the medical world and to fix the lack of supplies and staff in public hospitals.

The country is in a tough economic spot, as explained by OMP Sri Lanka. The government is working with the IMF to manage the situation without harming public healthcare. They plan to improve the healthcare supply system and start care units with digital support. Their goals include better mental health services and a future Disease Control Center. They hope the National Health Policy 2025 will build a solid health system with support from the WHO.

Economic reforms are needed to fix the nation’s economy. This will help create jobs and reduce poverty. However, the severe economic issues are causing skilled healthcare workers to leave. There’s hope that partnerships between the public and private sectors can change healthcare for the better. Working on these issues and fixing the income gap will make healthcare more fair for everyone. Solving these problems is essential for a better healthcare system in Sri Lanka.

Lanka T10 Super League Set for December 2024 Launch

Lanka T10 Super League Set for December 2024 Launch

The cricket scene in Sri Lanka is set to get a big boost. This comes with the first-ever Lanka T10 Super League starting December 12 until December 22, 2024. This move aligns with Sri Lanka’s push in the digital space, aiming for significant achievements by 2024 as outlined in its digital economy strategy. This cricket event is part of a broader goal to promote growth across different areas.

Cricket fans are in for a treat with six teams, like the Colombo Strikers and Galle Marvels, facing off. These matches, lasting about 90 minutes each, show off cricket’s quickest form. The excitement builds even more with the Player Draft on November 10, 2024. Teams will be eager to snatch up the best cricket talents.

Key Takeaways

  • Sri Lanka’s inaugural Lanka T10 Super League will feature six franchise teams competing in a round-robin format, connecting areas like Colombo, Galle, Jaffna, and others to one thrilling cricket tournament.
  • The tournament adheres to a page playoff system and is slated to be held from December 12 to December 22, 2024.
  • With matches under lights, the league is slated to make a rapid-paced and captivating spectacle, highlighting both local and international stars in the sport.
  • In preparation, the player registration portal gears up to welcome talents on October 15, 2024, promising an eclectic mix of cricketing prowess.
  • Reflecting the nation’s digital strategy focus, this cricketing event marks a strategic expansion into sports, enhancing Sri Lanka’s reputation as a hub for technological and recreational excellence.

An Overview of the Lanka T10 Super League

The Lanka T10 Super League starts in December 2024. It’s a key change for sports in Sri Lanka. The first T10 cricket event marks a big step for Sri Lanka Cricket. It’s about bringing the game into today’s world.

The Inception of the Lanka T10 Super League

Sri Lanka Cricket and T10 leaders worldwide teamed up to create the League. It showcases the exciting T10 cricket format. Their goal is to mix top international players with local stars, making a thrilling blend.

Player Registration and International Participation

The signup ends on October 23, 2024. Each team can have seven players from other countries. This gives the League an international flavor. It also shines a spotlight on Sri Lanka as a top cricket place.

Franchise Cricket: A New Era in Sri Lanka

Franchise teams represent Sri Lanka’s cricket areas. They pick their players from pros and new talent. The draft happens on November 10, 2024, in Colombo. This marks a new chapter for the sport in the country. It aims to keep cricket thriving in Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka to Host Inaugural Lanka T10 Super League in December 2024

In December 2024, Colombo will host the first Lanka T10 Super League. This new event is a partnership with T Ten Global Sports. It will run from December 12 to 22, offering 10 days of intense cricket action. The league is a chance to match player dreams with fan wishes for quick, exciting games.

Everyone is looking forward to the Lanka T10 Super League in December 2024. This event is expected to bring a fresh vibe to cricket. It will highlight emerging talents and offer a new way to enjoy cricket. Colombo’s modern venues are set to make the city a cricket focal point.

  1. Participating Teams and Format: Six teams will compete, with 15 to 17 players on each team.
  2. Player Draft Details: The draft is on November 10, 2024. Teams can sign up to six players, including stars from Sri Lanka and abroad.
  3. Draft Dynamics: The draft will use draws and randomizers to ensure teams are evenly matched.
  4. Venues: Cities like Galle, Kandy, Jaffna, and others will host matches. They offer great facilities and add to the sport’s heritage in Sri Lanka.

The excitement for the Lanka T10 Super League is huge in Sri Lanka. This isn’t just about showing off cricket skills. It’s a celebration of cricket’s growth. The games are short and fast, attracting more fans. The preparations are solid, promising a landmark event for Sri Lanka’s cricket.

Player Draft and Team Strategies for T10 Cricket

The Lanka T10 Super League is starting strong in franchise cricket. It’s all happening in Colombo on November 10, 2024, during the Player Draft. This new competition is serious about diversity. Each team needs to pick six essential players from different levels of cricket.

The six teams, Colombo Strikers, Galle Marvels, Jaffna Titans, Kandy Bolts, Hambantota Bangla Tigers, and Negombo Braves, face a big challenge. They will go through an 11-round draft. The goal is to pick players wisely. Prices vary from USD 35,000 for the top players to USD 2,500 for new talents from Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe, and the West Indies.

Teams need to build a group that can handle the T10 format’s quick pace. This game squeezes cricket into 90 minutes of intense action. So, finding players who are quick, skilled, and can adapt is key. The mix of experienced international players and fresh new faces adds excitement to the draft.

The draft’s results will set the stage for the December tournament. OMP Sri Lanka is ready to cover every detail of the event. They promise thorough reporting, sharp analysis, and total accuracy. OMP Sri Lanka is dedicated to keeping everyone updated about the Lanka T10 Super League. They support the growth of Sri Lankan cricket through smart team choices and the thrilling world of franchise cricket.

Sri Lanka’s Health Sector Acts to Ward Off Climate Impact

Sri Lanka’s Health Sector Acts to Ward Off Climate Impact

Sri Lanka’s climate resilience has taken center stage in its healthcare innovation. The country boosts its public health with sustainable practices in medical institutions. Over 1,000 health workers lead this eco-conscious initiative, with 100 doctors like Dr. Jayantha Wijepura, advocating adaptation strategies by cycling 18 kilometers to work.

The District General Hospital of Monaragala is making big changes with a ‘green productivity cycle’. They use renewable energy sources like biogas and solar power. This effort isn’t just happening there. The Base Hospital of Kalmunai North focuses on waste management, while the General Hospital of Kurunegala and the District General Hospital of Matale use solar power and biogas kitchens.

Climate change is a serious risk, making Sri Lanka the second most affected nation in 2017 due to climate disasters. Its health sector is fighting back with environmental health measures. Recent financial talks with the IMF show Sri Lanka’s commitment to protecting its people and environment. Find out more about these strategies.

Climate Resilience Initiatives in Sri Lankan Hospitals

In today’s world, making healthcare resilient against climate change is crucial. Sri Lanka is leading with strong efforts. Their hospitals are working on becoming more sustainable and energy-efficient. These actions help fight climate change and ensure that healthcare can keep going strong into the future.

Monaragala’s ‘Green Productivity Cycle’ and Renewable Energy Integration

The District General Hospital of Monaragala leads with a “Green Productivity Cycle”. They use renewable energy like biogas and solar power. This lessens carbon emissions and cuts down on using non-renewable energy.

They’re going for zero carbon emissions by composting organic waste and treating wastewater. This supports organic farming and encourages locals to follow suit. Their work aligns withglobal movements for better farming that helps the planet and economy.

Kalmunai North’s Comprehensive Gardening and Waste Management System

The Base Hospital of Kalmunai North is a key example of waste management and gardening merged. They convert organic waste to energy for cooking through a biogas plant. This matches sustainable cooking ideas.

They also grow vegetables using compost from the waste. This makes waste disposal more efficient and boosts the hospital’s food supplies. It means fresher and better food choices for everyone at the hospital.

Solar Energy and Biogas Solutions in Kurunegala and Matale Hospitals

The General Hospital of Kurunegala and Matale’s District General Hospital are now using solar and biogas energy. These choices make the hospitals run more efficiently and prepare them for power issues. Solar energy cuts costs and helps the planet.

Installing biogas plants shows their serious commitment to wasting nothing and using everything smartly. It makes the hospitals more sustainable. This shows how health sectors can respond creatively to environmental challenges.

Overall, these hospitals in Sri Lanka are landmarks of sustainability and hope, leading by example. By using renewable energy, reducing waste, and managing resources well, they are crucial to Sri Lanka’s sustainable future.

Improving Public Health Preparedness Through Sustainable Healthcare Practices

Sri Lanka is working hard to improve its healthcare system. A big part of this effort is focusing on sustainable actions. With most deaths in the country caused by non-communicable diseases, there’s a big push for better health plans and policies. Also, there’s a push to make healthcare fairer across different regions.

Working together is key to making these health improvements happen. For example, Dr. Jayantha Wijepura’s bicycle pool is a clever plan to make public health better. Cycling helps fight air pollution and encourages everyone to live healthier. These steps are part of a larger plan to make the healthcare system stronger and ready for the effects of climate change.

The government is also investing in making drugs locally and updating medical tech with things like telemedicine and AI. These efforts match the country’s goals for improving healthcare quickly and over time. Long-term plans include setting up new public health centers and focusing on advanced research labs. By working closely with private companies, these sustainable steps are expected to build a healthcare system that’s ready for anything, leads in caring for the region, and brings new ideas to the table.