Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa today unveiled a comprehensive national roadmap to transform Sri Lanka into a USD 25–30 billion digital economy by 2030, stressing that the country must urgently modernise its digital infrastructure, strengthen governance, and create high-value employment for its youth.
Speaking in Parliament, Sajith Premadasa said Sri Lanka has the potential to become a regional technology hub if it invests decisively in telecommunications upgrades, data centres, cloud infrastructure, artificial intelligence education and large-scale IT talent development. He emphasised the need to expand 5G nationwide, incentivise fibre connectivity, partner with global cloud providers and establish tech investment zones across all 25 districts.
The MP further called for a fully digitalised public service, including a national digital identity, digital signatures, inter-agency data platforms and 100% online access to government services such as licences, land registry work, court filings and permits. Digital payment adoption, interoperable QR systems and fintech innovation were highlighted as essential to building a cashless economy and reducing corruption.
He also proposed establishing a national start-up fund, promoting AI, fintech, agri-tech and health-tech ventures, offering tech visas to global experts, and boosting IT-BPM exports from USD 1.8 billion to USD 10 billion by 2030. He underscored the importance of digitalising traditional sectors like agriculture, tourism and fisheries, improving cybersecurity, updating outdated laws and expanding digital literacy nationwide.
Sajith Premadasa said the SJB stands ready to lead Sri Lanka into a modern digital era, adding, “It’s time to walk the talk and make our digital dream a reality.” (Newswire)