Today’s News Digest: Your go-to summary of the key events and headlines that shaped the day. From major developments to breaking news, we bring you everything that happened today, all in one quick and easy read.
Govt to close 33 non-active state institutions
The Cabinet has approved the formal closure of 33 non-operational state-owned enterprises under a two-phase restructuring plan. These entities, originally set up for public service and strategic economic goals, have become inactive due to poor performance and misalignment with current priorities. A Special Closure Unit within the Finance Ministry will oversee the process. The government confirmed no job losses will occur, as the institutions are entirely defunct.
BYD local distributor accuses Sri Lanka Customs of selective treatment
John Keells CG Auto (JKCG), the local distributor for BYD electric vehicles, has accused Sri Lanka Customs of discrimination for detaining only BYD shipments while clearing other EV brands. The company told the Court of Appeal that Customs disregarded court orders and evidence from BYD, and claimed that allegations of performance enhancement via software updates were incorrect. JKCG affirmed its cooperation with authorities and emphasized the global certification of BYD vehicles.
Government delays VAT on foreign digital services
The government has postponed the implementation of Value Added Tax (VAT) on digital services provided by non-resident entities to Sri Lankan consumers from October 2025 to April 2026. The Finance Ministry cited industry requests for more preparation time as the reason for the delay. Cabinet Spokesman Nalinda Jayatissa said the decision followed discussions with stakeholders and the International Monetary Fund.
Rise in child cancer cases : 900 patients diagnosed annually
The National Cancer Control Programme reports a rise in childhood cancer cases in Sri Lanka, with nearly 900 diagnoses annually. Around 200 child cancer deaths are recorded each year, a figure unchanged since 2019. Consultant Dr. Suraj Perera noted that cases previously ranged between 600–800 annually over the past 15 years and emphasized that many deaths could have been prevented with earlier diagnosis.
Justice Minister inspects alleged mass grave sites in Kalmunai
Justice Minister Harshana Nanayakkara visited Kalmunai, Kalavanchikudy, and Kurukkulamadam following complaints about alleged mass graves. During the inspection, he met with residents and assured that investigations would be conducted fairly and transparently. Officials from the Office on Missing Persons in Batticaloa and senior police officers accompanied the visit.