President Anura Kumara Dissanayake today outlined the Government’s key economic and development priorities for 2027, saying the focus will be on reducing recurrent expenditure while significantly increasing investment in development projects.
Speaking at the Galle District Special Coordination Committee Meeting, the President highlighted the following key updates:
1. Reduce recurrent spending, boost development
The Government aims to reduce recurrent expenditure, currently at 9%, while increasing capital expenditure from 4% to support development and investment.
2. Rs. 2 trillion capital expenditure planned for 2027
The President said around Rs. 2 trillion has been earmarked for capital expenditure next year, representing an increase of approximately 40%.
3. Digitalisation of public services
The 2027 Budget will prioritise digitalising government services to improve efficiency and enable citizens to access services from home.
4. Retirement age may be extended in selected sectors
The Government is considering extending the retirement age in selected fields to retain experienced and skilled professionals in the public service.
5. Focus on jobs and economic growth
The President said the Government aims to build an outward-oriented economy that creates more employment opportunities for young people.
6. Greater investment in sports and youth
He said the Government is prepared to allocate the necessary resources to strengthen sports, describing it as an important tool in tackling social issues, including drug abuse.
7. Continued anti-drug operations
The President said 12,608 raids have been carried out in Galle District under the “Ratama Ekata” anti-drug operation since October 2025, leading to the seizure of 119.6 kilograms of illicit drugs.
The President also reviewed progress on district development projects, housing programmes, water supply schemes, rural road development, waste management and plans to transform Galle into a major tourism and economic hub. (Newswire)