The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce has called for urgent and coordinated policy measures to safeguard Sri Lanka’s economic stability as escalating geopolitical tensions and global uncertainty threaten to disrupt supply chains and economic activity.
In a policy submission made to the Government on 11 March 2026, the Chamber outlined a series of recommendations aimed at mitigating potential economic risks while ensuring the continuity of critical sectors.
Among the key proposals was the need to prioritise the continuation of Sri Lanka’s reform programme supported by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), including the timely receipt of upcoming programme tranches. The Chamber also urged the adoption of a more dynamic fuel pricing mechanism and the reintroduction of the fuel QR distribution system, noting that steps have already been taken towards implementing some of these fuel-related measures.
The business body further recommended expediting fuel procurement and ensuring adequate fertiliser stocks for the upcoming cultivation season. Strengthening tourism promotion, particularly targeting markets such as India and countries in East Asia, was also highlighted as an important step to sustain foreign exchange inflows.
In addition, the Chamber stressed the need to accelerate port clearance procedures to improve trade efficiency and review policies that could place additional pressure on foreign exchange reserves amid the prevailing global uncertainties.
Building on these recommendations, the Chamber this week proposed several additional measures aimed at maintaining economic activity in the event of potential supply disruptions.
It suggested that the Government identify a clear list of essential services and priority economic sectors to guide the allocation of critical resources such as fuel and foreign exchange. A strategic approach to fuel procurement was also recommended, including exploring supply arrangements with a broader range of international suppliers.
Ensuring the availability of aviation fuel was highlighted as vital for sustaining inbound tourism, while the Chamber also proposed allowing licensed local bunkering companies to independently procure fuel for export-oriented industries and tourism operators, potentially on a foreign currency basis. Similar arrangements were used during Sri Lanka’s recent economic crisis to support key sectors without placing additional strain on domestic fuel supplies.
To help reduce fuel consumption while maintaining economic activity, the Chamber also recommended that both public and private sector institutions consider flexible work arrangements, including work-from-home options where feasible. It further suggested that the Government consider bringing forward the closure of schools and universities ahead of the upcoming Sinhala and Tamil New Year holidays, while temporarily adopting online learning methods where possible.
The Chamber also proposed temporarily limiting non-essential foreign currency outflows, while prioritising the use of foreign exchange for critical imports such as fuel, food, pharmaceuticals and inputs required by export industries.
The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce emphasised that close coordination between the Government and the private sector will be essential to navigate potential global shocks and maintain economic stability.
It also noted that keeping businesses informed of policy measures under consideration would enable companies to plan effectively and respond swiftly to evolving economic conditions.
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