Sri Lanka could face a major economic crisis by April 2026 if the fallout from the Cyclone Ditwah disaster is not managed properly, United National Party (UNP) Deputy General Secretary Harin Fernando warned today.
Addressing a media briefing, the former Tourism Minister said the economic damage caused by the cyclone was severe, accusing the government and the President of lacking a clear plan to deal with the crisis.
Fernando said the government has so far failed to present a proper damage assessment, warning that demand for US dollars would increase sharply due to losses in agriculture and the food sector.
“If there is no proper plan, programme or projection, Sri Lanka will move towards a massive economic collapse by the Sinhala and Tamil New Year,” Fernando said.
“Write down today’s date. We warned you,” he added. “By April 15, look at where the dollar is trading, look at what kind of economic contraction the country will face. I do not want that to happen, but it will if this situation is not managed properly.”
Fernando said the country is moving towards a foreign exchange crisis fuelled by the cyclone’s economic impact.
“Please calculate the damage properly. Even those outside the government with experience — including Ranil Wickremesinghe — can help to manage the situation” he said. (Newswire)
“If there is no proper plan, programme or projection, Sri Lanka will head towards a massive economic collapse by the Sinhala and Tamil New Year. Write down today’s date. By April 15, look at where the dollar stands.” UNP Deputy General Secretary Harin Fernando, warning of… pic.twitter.com/qn6Jnd3k4R
— NewsWire 🇱🇰 (@NewsWireLK) December 15, 2025