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Sri Lanka’s Export Sector to be Affected by US President Trump’s Proposed Reciprocal Tax

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Sri Lanka’s export sector, including the apparel industry, is expected to be significantly affected by the proposed reciprocal tax law to be introduced by US President Donald Trump. The new tax policy is scheduled to be implemented from April.

The policy aims to address the trade imbalance between the US and Sri Lanka. The US reportedly purchases goods worth US$ 3 billion annually from Sri Lanka, whereas Sri Lanka only purchases goods worth US$ 600 million from the US.

This imbalance causes the US to incur an annual trade deficit of over US$ 2 billion. To recover this loss, the US intends to raise tax rates on goods and services imported from Sri Lanka, according to diplomatic sources.

The new tax will affect many countries around the world, including Sri Lanka. The Trump administration has also decided to treat the Value Added Tax (VAT) on goods and services as a tariff.

Large-Scale Illegal Liquor Operation Raided in Dambulla

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Based on a tip-off received by the Dambulla Police, a large-scale illegal liquor operation was raided in a two-story house located in the D4 Ela Atupara area of Dambulla. Approximately 800,000 milliliters of goda, and 20 bottles containing 15,000 milliliters of kasippu, along with equipment including one can, two coils, and four barrels, were seized by the Dambulla Police.

The owner of this illegal liquor operation is a candidate contesting in the upcoming Dambulla Municipal Council election. It is believed that he has been running this operation discreetly for an extended period. The owner fled during the raid, and it was revealed that he was representing the National People’s Power (NPP) team of 24 members in the Dambulla Municipal Council. His wife was arrested and released on police bail and has been notified to appear before the court on the upcoming Wednesday.

Altercation at Nightclub Involving Yoshitha Rajapaksa

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An altercation occurred at a nightclub on Udyana Road, Colombo 02, when Yoshitha Rajapaksa, son of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, and his wife visited the establishment.

They were accompanied by a group of eight individuals, one of whom did not have the required wristband to enter the club. A security officer inquired about the wristband, leading to a verbal dispute, during which the eight individuals assaulted the security officer.

By that time, Yoshitha Rajapaksa and his wife had left the scene. The owner of the nightclub filed a complaint with the police, who conducted an on-site investigation. The injured security officer was hospitalized and received treatment.

Yoshitha Rajapaksa is currently out on bail, facing charges in an ongoing court case related to money laundering.

Vedda Chief Files Complaint Against Comedians Over Offensive YouTube Video

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Vedda Chief Uruwarige Wannila Aththo has taken legal action against comedians Gehan Blok and Dino Corera, filing a formal complaint with the Criminal Investigation Department (CID). The complaint centers on a YouTube video created by the comedians, which Aththo alleges misrepresents and mocks the Indigenous Vedda community.

Earlier this week, the Vedda leader publicly condemned the video, stating that it distorts the Vedda language and traditions for commercial gain. He also claims that his attempts to contact Blok and Corera and request the video’s removal have been ignored.

BYD’s New Energy Vehicles Arrive in Sri Lanka, Ushering in a New Era of Sustainable Mobility

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The first shipment of BYD’s New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) has arrived at Hambantota Port, marking a significant milestone for Sri Lanka’s automotive industry. This historic event, facilitated by John Keells CG Auto (JKCG Auto), the authorized distributor for BYD vehicles in Sri Lanka, introduces a new era of sustainable mobility and innovation to the country.

The shipment includes popular BYD models like the SEALION 6, ATTO 3, and DOLPHIN, which have been eagerly awaited by Sri Lankan auto enthusiasts. This marks BYD’s re-entry into the Sri Lankan market after over five years of import restrictions.

“Our partnership with BYD highlights our commitment to driving a green mobility revolution that will help build Sri Lanka’s dream of an empowered, cleaner, more sustainable nation,” said Charith Panditharatne, General Manager of John Keells CG Auto. “We are proud to be the first to bring these brand-new BYDs to Sri Lanka following the removal of import restrictions.”

JKCG Auto plans to deliver the vehicles to customers in the coming weeks and is poised to meet the expectations of an increasingly eco-conscious customer base. With additional shipments underway, the company is set to strengthen its position as a leader in Sri Lanka’s green mobility revolution.

Former Tamil Militant Leaders Unite for Local Government Elections

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In a surprising turn of events, former Tamil militant leaders and one-time rivals, Karuna Amman and Sivanesathurai Chandrakanthan, also known as Pillayan, have announced a joint effort to contest the upcoming Local Government Elections.

Addressing a joint media conference on Saturday, Pillayan stated that they had resolved their past differences to work together for the betterment of the North and East. He acknowledged the role of Karuna Amman in forming the Tamil Makkal Viduthalai Pullikal (TMVP) to fight against the LTTE, and admitted to subsequent disagreements following the LTTE’s defeat.

Karuna Amman reciprocated the goodwill by praising Pillayan’s performance as the former Chief Minister of the Eastern Province, claiming that he had accomplished more for the people than C.V. Wigneswaran did as the Chief Minister of the Northern Province.

Boxing Legend George Foreman Dies at 76

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Former heavyweight champion George Foreman, known for his remarkable career and iconic grill, has passed away at the age of 76.

Foreman’s family announced his death on Friday night, remembering him as a “devout preacher, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grand and great grandfather.”

Foreman’s boxing career was legendary, with two world heavyweight titles and an Olympic gold medal. He is remembered for his knockout power, his famous “Rumble in the Jungle” fight against Muhammad Ali, and his unexpected comeback to win the heavyweight title at age 45.

Outside of boxing, Foreman found success as an ordained minister and entrepreneur, with his George Foreman Grill becoming a household name.

Prime Minister Highlights Urgent Need for Gender Equality Measures at International Women’s Day Celebration

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Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya delivered a keynote speech at the International Women’s Day celebration organized by the United Nations Office in Sri Lanka, emphasizing the urgent need to address challenges and discriminatory practices faced by women globally.

The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of protecting women’s fundamental rights and acknowledging their significant contributions to national development. She commended the government’s initiatives, including the 2024 Women’s Empowerment Act and programs aimed at increasing women’s workforce participation. However, she also acknowledged the persistent gender gaps in leadership, decision-making, and economic participation.

Dr. Amarasuriya stressed the need for greater support for women in all spheres of life, including recognizing the value of unpaid caregiving responsibilities. She called for urgent legal and social reforms to address gender-based violence and discrimination, and emphasized the importance of global partnerships in achieving gender equality.

The event also included an awards ceremony recognizing women’s achievements in various fields and was attended by distinguished guests, including government officials and representatives from the United Nations.

Lanka Property Show 2025: Sri Lanka’s Real Estate Sector Shows Resilience and Growth Potential

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Industry experts at the Lanka Property Show 2025 expressed confidence in Sri Lanka’s real estate sector’s growth potential despite recent economic hurdles. While high interest rates, currency depreciation, and fluctuating taxes have impacted the market, experts believe that stabilizing monetary policy will create a favorable environment for investors and homebuyers.

The 9th edition of the Lanka Property Show attracted over 17,000 visitors, showcasing over 25 leading projects and demonstrating a strong recovery from the pandemic and economic downturn.

Panel discussions addressed key market issues. Former Central Bank Governor Dr. Indrajith Coomaraswamy emphasized that stable economic conditions are crucial for the sector. Prime Group Chairman Premalal Brahmanage highlighted high construction costs due to taxes and urged greater government support.

Attracting foreign buyers was also discussed. Kishore Reddy of Platinum Realty Investments called for prompt implementation of investor visas and reduced import duties on building materials.

Panelists on affordable housing stressed sustainable design and cost-effective solutions to reduce construction costs.

The event showcased a resilient property market with increasing buyer interest and investor confidence. Experts agreed that with continued policy stability and stakeholder cooperation, Sri Lanka’s real estate sector is poised for sustainable growth.

Two Men Killed in Devinuwara Area Shooting

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In a tragic incident early this morning (22nd March), two men, aged 28 and 29, were killed near the Devinuwara Dewalaya in Gandara. Police reports indicate that the victims were traveling on a motorbike when they were pursued by unidentified assailants in a van.

The chase ended violently as the assailants deliberately collided with the motorbike, causing the victims to lose control. The perpetrators then proceeded to shoot the victims at close range before fleeing the scene.

Law enforcement officials stated that the suspects later attempted to destroy evidence by setting the van on fire a distance away from the crime scene. The burnt-out vehicle has been recovered and is currently undergoing forensic examination.

Police have launched a full-scale investigation into the double homicide. They are appealing to the public for any information that may lead to the identification and apprehension of the suspects.