Harshana Suriyapperuma – Newswire https://www.newswire.lk Sri Lanka's largest News aggregator Thu, 30 Apr 2026 06:56:34 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.6 https://www.newswire.lk/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/favicon.png Harshana Suriyapperuma – Newswire https://www.newswire.lk 32 32 “I don’t know”: Harsha says unaware of Treasury Secretary’s COPF appearance today https://www.newswire.lk/2026/04/30/i-dont-know-harsha-says-unaware-of-treasury-secretarys-copf-appearance-today/ Thu, 30 Apr 2026 06:56:34 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=234032

Committee on Public Finance (COPF) Chairman Harsha de Silva says he has not been informed of Treasury Secretary Harshana Suriyapperuma’sContinue Reading

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Committee on Public Finance (COPF) Chairman Harsha de Silva says he has not been informed of Treasury Secretary Harshana Suriyapperuma’s appearance before the committee today (30) regarding the US$2.5 million cyber theft from the Treasury.

“I do not know, and I have not been informed. However, I did not accept his refusal to be present today and request for another day. I have written to him and told him that the Committee will meet as planned,” MP Harsha said in a statement on ‘X’.

His comments come as reports emerged that Suriyapperuma, along with senior Finance Ministry officials, will appear before the COPF at 01.00 pm today to provide explanations over the US$2.5 million cyber theft from the Treasury.

Suriyapperuma is reportedly appearing before the COPF today, despite having earlier informed the committee in writing that he was unable to attend today’s session and requested an alternative date after May 5, citing the President’s expected statement in Parliament on the matter.

The COPF meeting is scheduled to proceed this afternoon, with members expected to deliberate on the alleged diversion of USD 2.5 million in Treasury funds, in a case linked to a suspected email scam involving a foreign debt repayment.

The payment, made as part of Sri Lanka’s external debt servicing process, had been redirected to a third party through a fraudulent email resembling that of Australia’s Export Finance Agency. (Newswire)

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Treasury Secretary to appear before COPF at 1:00 pm today – reports https://www.newswire.lk/2026/04/30/treasury-secretary-to-appear-before-copf-at-100-pm-today-reports/ Thu, 30 Apr 2026 05:54:24 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=234016

Secretary to the Ministry of Finance and the Treasury, Harshana Suriyapperuma, will appear before the Parliamentary Committee on Public FinanceContinue Reading

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Secretary to the Ministry of Finance and the Treasury, Harshana Suriyapperuma, will appear before the Parliamentary Committee on Public Finance (COPF) today (30), regarding the cyber theft involving US$2.5 million from the Treasury.

It is reported that the Finance Ministry Secretary will report to the COPF along with several senior officials of the Ministry of Finance at 01.00 pm. 

Suriyapperuma had been summoned along with senior Finance Ministry officials to appear before the COPF to provide explanations over the  US$2.5 million cyber theft. 

However, Suriyapperuma had informed the COPF in writing that he is unable to appear before the committee on Thursday (30). 

COPF Chairman Harsha de Silva confirmed that the committee received a letter from the Finance Ministry Secretary yesterday notifying them of his inability to attend the scheduled session, and that he had requested an alternate date after May 5th.

According to de Silva, the Finance Ministry Secretary had sought a postponement as the President is expected to make a statement in Parliament on the matter before that date. (Newswire)

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Joint Opposition condemns violence against protesters outside Finance Ministry Secretary’s residence https://www.newswire.lk/2026/04/28/joint-opposition-condemns-violence-against-protesters-outside-finance-ministry-secretarys-residence/ Tue, 28 Apr 2026 10:11:08 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=233728

The Joint Opposition has strongly condemned the violence unleashed against demonstrators outside the residence of Finance Ministry Secretary Dr. HarshanaContinue Reading

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The Joint Opposition has strongly condemned the violence unleashed against demonstrators outside the residence of Finance Ministry Secretary Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma in Pelawatte today.

In a statement, the group expressed “revulsion and indignation” at the attack on peaceful protesters, who were reportedly assaulted and pelted with human excreta, cow dung, rotten tomatoes, and lighted crackers.

The Joint Opposition accused the JVP of resorting to “thuggery and intimidation” to prevent exposure of alleged frauds and misuse of public resources. 

The statement also recalled the party’s violent past, including destruction of public property and killings, and warned against attempts to silence legitimate public protest.

The Joint Opposition vowed not to be silenced, insisting it will continue to defend the people’s rights against what it described as pillage and plunder of the nation’s wealth.

Full statement: 

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COPF mulls summoning Finance Ministry Secretary on Treasury cyber fraud https://www.newswire.lk/2026/04/28/copf-mulls-summoning-finance-ministry-secretary-on-treasury-cyber-fraud/ Tue, 28 Apr 2026 07:48:16 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=233691

Committee on Public Finance (COPF) Chairman MP Harsha de Silva says he intends to summon the Finance Ministry Secretary beforeContinue Reading

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Committee on Public Finance (COPF) Chairman MP Harsha de Silva says he intends to summon the Finance Ministry Secretary before the committee regarding the recently reported $2.5 million Treasury cyber fraud. 

Speaking to reporters, MP Harsha de Silva said that the committee is meeting today, during which he intends to propose summoning the Finance Ministry Secretary before the committee. 

“I have summoned the COPF committee members today. I am of the view that the Finance Ministry Secretary must be summoned regarding the Treasury fraud incident. It is essential that he briefs the Parliament. This is a Parliamentary power under the Constitution,” he said. 

MP Harsha de Silva further said that there is no reason for the Finance Ministry Secretary not to appear before the COPF committee. 

“I intend to discuss with committee members today and reach a consensus on summoning the Finance Ministry Secretary and relevant officials before the COPF committee as soon as possible. I believe the government members in the committee will agree to this proposal, as they have no reason to reject,” he added. (Newswire)

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Protesters near Finance Secretary’s residence attacked with cow dung https://www.newswire.lk/2026/04/28/protesters-near-finance-secretarys-residence-attacked-with-cow-dung/ Tue, 28 Apr 2026 06:52:49 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=233680

Supporters of the New Democratic Front, led by Sugeeshwara Bandara, staged a protest outside the residence of Finance Ministry Secretary,Continue Reading

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Supporters of the New Democratic Front, led by Sugeeshwara Bandara, staged a protest outside the residence of Finance Ministry Secretary, Harshana Suriyapperuma, in Pelawatta, Akuregoda, on Tuesday (28).

The demonstration was held to protest the recently reported $2.5 million Treasury cyber fraud.

During the protest, former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s Private Secretary, Sugeeshwara Banadara and several others were attacked with cow dung.

A tense situation arose between the two groups, prompting police intervention to restore order. (Newswire)

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$2.5M Treasury diversion : Finance Ministry gives further details https://www.newswire.lk/2026/04/23/2-5m-treasury-diversion-finance-ministry-gives-further-details/ Thu, 23 Apr 2026 11:37:57 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=233083

The Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, Harshana Suriyapperuma, says that efforts are being made to recover as much asContinue Reading

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The Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, Harshana Suriyapperuma, says that efforts are being made to recover as much as possible of the USD 2.5 million that cyber criminals obtained from the Ministry of Finance.

He made this statement while participating in a media briefing held today (23) at the auditorium of the Ministry.

Harshana Suriyapperuma further said that these hackers had entered the relevant system through email.

He further said that the Australian High Commissioner and the creditor had been informed regarding this incident.

“In January 2026, we came to know that cyber criminals were trying to enter the External Resources Department’s system. When such information was reported, we coordinated with the relevant foreign countries and ensured that no harm was caused to the country that was to receive the payment. That issue was resolved. We felt the need to prepare the necessary procedures to review past payments, because even before January, similar incidents had occurred. Accordingly, it took some time. During that period, it was revealed that the hackers’ activities had also affected a past payment in January,” he said.

Harshana Suriyapperuma noted that it was confirmed that the cyber criminals had accessed emails and defrauded nearly USD 2.5 million from the Ministry of Finance. 

“Even though Sri Lanka had made the due payments, the cyber criminals had intervened and diverted it to other bank accounts, instead of the intended recipient,” he said. 

He added that following these complaints were filed with the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) and the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka on the incident. 

The Secretary of the Ministry of Finance further said that a committee has been appointed, comprising high-ranking officials of the Finance Ministry and two Deputy Secretaries of the Treasury, to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the matter. 

He added that actions, including disciplinary action against officers, have been taken based on the reports of the committee obtained thus far. (Newswire)

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Rebuilding Sri Lanka Fund surpasses Rs. 8.5B with local and global support https://www.newswire.lk/2026/01/23/rebuilding-sri-lanka-fund-surpasses-rs-8-5b-with-local-and-global-support/ Fri, 23 Jan 2026 10:52:25 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=220372

The Finance Ministry has announced that contributions to the Rebuilding Sri Lanka Fund, set up to support recovery efforts afterContinue Reading

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The Finance Ministry has announced that contributions to the Rebuilding Sri Lanka Fund, set up to support recovery efforts after Cyclone Ditwah, have surpassed Rs. 8.5 billion, reflecting strong support from local businesses and citizens.

Providing an update on the current status of the Rebuilding Sri Lanka Fund, Secretary to the Ministry of Finance, Harshana Suriyapperuma, further noted that foreign donations have also increased, with the total amount surpassing USD 9.49 million.

Among the donor countries, the United States has contributed the highest amount, exceeding Rs. 1 billion.

In addition, Australia, China, the United Kingdom, Germany, Canada, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bhutan, Italy, and South Korea were identified as the top ten countries providing financial assistance.

He added that beyond these nations, a total of 47 foreign countries have extended aid to Sri Lanka for recovery after the disaster.

Meanwhile, Suriyapperuma pointed out that Sri Lanka Customs has also received a large volume of goods as aid.

He stated that the total value of goods received as aid has already exceeded Rs. 2.3 billion. (Newswire)

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Germany, Sri Lanka ink bilateral debt restructuring deal https://www.newswire.lk/2026/01/07/germany-sri-lanka-ink-bilateral-debt-restructuring-deal/ Wed, 07 Jan 2026 11:00:27 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=218116

Germany and Sri Lanka today signed a bilateral debt restructuring agreement, marking a significant milestone in Sri Lanka’s efforts toContinue Reading

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Germany and Sri Lanka today signed a bilateral debt restructuring agreement, marking a significant milestone in Sri Lanka’s efforts to achieve debt sustainability and advance its economic recovery.

The agreement was signed by Chargé d’affaires of the German Embassy, Sarah Hasselbarth, on behalf of the Federal Republic of Germany, and Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma, on behalf of the Government of Sri Lanka.

Announcing the agreement, the German Embassy in Colombo said that the bilateral deal reflects the strong relations between Germany and Sri Lanka and underscores Germany’s commitment to supporting sustainable solutions for long‑term stability in Sri Lanka.  

The German Embassy further said that Germany continues to stand as a reliable partner in fostering international cooperation. (Newswire)

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OCC grants ‘No Objection’ clearance for debt deal on SriLankan Airlines loans https://www.newswire.lk/2025/12/19/occ-grants-no-objection-clearance-for-debt-deal-on-srilankan-airlines-loans/ Fri, 19 Dec 2025 08:11:00 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=215840

The Official Creditor Committee (OCC) has formally granted a “no objection” clearance, allowing Sri Lanka to move forward with itsContinue Reading

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The Official Creditor Committee (OCC) has formally granted a “no objection” clearance, allowing Sri Lanka to move forward with its proposed settlement arrangements for foreign borrowings guaranteed by the government for SriLankan Airlines.

Announcing the development, Secretary to the Ministry of Finance Harshana Suriyapperuma said Sri Lanka has kept markets informed through the Singapore Exchange as part of compliance requirements. 

“We have indicated certain arrangements in principle. Agreements and arrangements in terms of sharing information, etc. We are very grateful and happy to inform that OCC has conveyed their position of no objection, supporting Sri Lanka during this difficult time,” he stated.

The clearance, which follows advice from legal experts, marks a significant milestone in the restructuring process. 

Sri Lanka has already restructured over 90% of its debt obligations, with officials noting that the remaining steps are expected to be procedural. 

“With the support of all parties involved, we should be able to complete them within a short period,” Suriyapperuma added. (Newswire)

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‘Rebuilding Sri Lanka’ fund receives over Rs. 4.2 billion in aid https://www.newswire.lk/2025/12/19/rebuilding-sri-lanka-fund-receives-over-rs-4-2-billion-in-aid/ Fri, 19 Dec 2025 06:24:09 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=215825

The Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development announced that the ‘Rebuilding Sri Lanka’ Fund, established to support those affectedContinue Reading

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The Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development announced that the ‘Rebuilding Sri Lanka’ Fund, established to support those affected by Cyclone Ditwah, has received more than Rs. 4.2 billion in financial assistance to date.

Secretary to the Ministry, Harshana Suriyapperuma, said the Treasury has recorded Rs. 4,286 million in total contributions, including Rs. 4,263 million in direct deposits into bank accounts and Rs. 23 million in foreign currency. 

“The total is now over Rs. 4.2 billion, with foreign currency contributions exceeding USD 6 million,” he noted.

Suriyapperuma expressed gratitude for the support received from well‑wishers, entrepreneurs, organizations, businesses, and Sri Lankans living overseas. 

He added that multilateral agencies such as the IMF, ADB, and World Bank are considering assistance for Sri Lanka’s rebuilding efforts, with details to be shared once finalized.

Highlighting the global response, Suriyapperuma said contributions from North America ranked the highest, followed by donations from Australia, China, the UK, Germany, Bhutan, Italy, the UAE, Canada, New Zealand, the Maldives, Saudi Arabia, and France. 

He further noted that South Korea remains among the top contributors in terms of assistance, support, and grants.

In addition to financial donations, significant contributions have been received in the form of goods and services, which Sri Lanka Customs is recording.

 “All funds are documented by the Treasury, and goods are handed over promptly to the Disaster Management Centre to ensure they reach affected communities,” Suriyapperuma emphasized. (Newswire)

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US Tariff Talks : Sri Lanka cites strategic market access push https://www.newswire.lk/2025/08/01/us-tariff-talks-sri-lanka-cites-strategic-market-access-push/ Fri, 01 Aug 2025 07:39:44 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=197294

Secretary to the Ministry of Finance Dr. Harsha Suriyapperuma said the reduction of the United States tariff rate on SriContinue Reading

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Secretary to the Ministry of Finance Dr. Harsha Suriyapperuma said the reduction of the United States tariff rate on Sri Lankan exports to 20% marked progress toward one of the country’s key trade objectives.

“The primary goal was to determine how Sri Lanka could move forward while preserving its competitive position in the regional market,” he said, adding that the focus was not solely on the tariff percentage but on maintaining market share for Sri Lankan exporters of goods and services.

Suriyapperuma made these observations during a government media briefing to announce the reduced tariff rate on Sri Lankan exports to the United States to 20%, calling it a significant outcome of recent trade negotiations

He said that ensuring continued competitiveness for exporters and entrepreneurs was central to the negotiations.

Suriyapperuma said the government aimed to open the domestic market in ways that would generate mutual benefits for both countries. The talks were guided by a broader economic strategy focused on facilitating not only the trade of goods but also the transfer of knowledge and technology to support long-term growth.

He added that the government consistently assessed the impact on local industries and remained committed to safeguarding critical sectors while expanding trade access.

What did Sri Lanka offer?

Sri Lanka positioned itself as a net importer of energy, raw materials, and advanced machinery—products largely sourced for industrial and consumer use, Suriyapperuma said. 

Sri Lanka’s offer to the US involved providing market access on a non-discriminatory, competitive basis, particularly for private US suppliers, rather than through direct government-to-government agreements.

He added that discussions focused on minimizing both tariffs and para-tariffs, with trade facilitation identified as a major component of the offer. This included commitments to improve customs procedures through a national single window system, increase transparency, and reduce bureaucratic delays at border agencies—steps aimed at lowering the cost of doing business in Sri Lanka.

The trade proposal extended beyond individual product lines and included reforms consistent with the economic framework under Sri Lanka’s current IMF-supported program.

“Our offer is comprehensive,” Dr. Suriyapperuma said, “factoring in market access and the ease of doing business. We expect both foreign and domestic businesses to benefit.”

Key issues identified in talks

On labour law concerns—particularly in the apparel sector— Suriyapperuma said that the trade discussions were broad-based, centred on improving market access for local entrepreneurs and reducing production costs through technological upgrades. He affirmed that all relevant government agencies had been briefed and that no sector was excluded from consideration.

When asked about potential changes to intellectual property laws, quotas on imports such as oil or agricultural inputs, or broader trade concessions, he said that while some details remain confidential due to the nature of the negotiations, Sri Lanka has maintained transparency where possible.

He confirmed that Sri Lanka’s energy imports were part of the talks, with the aim of achieving more competitive pricing. Trade facilitation was also presented as a solution to the longstanding challenges faced by local exporters.

Will the government renegotiate with the IMF?

Responding to questions on whether the trade discussions could trigger a need to renegotiate terms with the IMF, Dr. Suriyapperuma said Sri Lanka continues to operate within agreed parameters. He added that any necessary adjustments would be discussed with all stakeholders, and that the government is working in coordination with multilateral partners and the business community.

“This is a collective effort,” he said. “We are committed to making Sri Lanka more competitive while fulfilling our international obligations.”

Suriyapperuma also expressed appreciation to officials involved in the process, including Central Bank Governor Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe, Presidential Economic Adviser Duminda Hulangamuwa, Secretary to the Ministry of Trade Wimalendra Raja, and Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to the US Mahinda Samarasinghe. (Newswire)

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Tariffs : Sri Lanka in talks with US Trade Office today https://www.newswire.lk/2025/07/18/tariffs-sri-lanka-in-talks-with-us-trade-office-today/ Fri, 18 Jul 2025 07:19:54 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=195456

The Ministry of Finance says continuous discussions have been scheduled with the United States on the possible reduction in theContinue Reading

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The Ministry of Finance says continuous discussions have been scheduled with the United States on the possible reduction in the reciprocal tariffs imposed thus far.

Accordingly, a meeting between Sri Lankan representatives and the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office will be held today (18).

The Finance Ministry said that the discussion will be conducted virtually to strengthen trade and investment relations between the two countries. 

The discussion will get underway with the participation of the Secretary to the Ministry of Finance, Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma, and other relevant government officials. 

The US imposed a 44% reciprocal tariff on Sri Lanka initially in April, but later reduced the tariff to 30%, expected to come into effect from 01 August this year. (Newswire)

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US Trade Tariffs : Govt reveals next step https://www.newswire.lk/2025/07/10/us-trade-tariffs-govt-reveals-next-step/ Thu, 10 Jul 2025 06:44:59 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=194560

Sri Lanka will continue discussions with the United States on the 30% trade tariff, Secretary to the Ministry of Finance,Continue Reading

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Sri Lanka will continue discussions with the United States on the 30% trade tariff, Secretary to the Ministry of Finance, Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma said. 

Harshana Suriyapperuma said that further discussions will be held until the August 1 deadline.

The reduction of the 44% tariff imposed by the US to 30% was possible due to the negotiations of the Sri Lankan government with various parties, he added. 

US President Donald Trump announced yesterday that Sri Lanka has been hit with a 30% tariff by the United States.

Under the new measures, imports from Sri Lanka will see duties rise to 30%, effective from August  01. (Newswire)

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Who is Harshana Suriyapperuma, Sri Lanka’s new Finance Secretary? https://www.newswire.lk/2025/06/23/who-is-harshana-suriyapperuma-sri-lankas-new-finance-secretary/ Mon, 23 Jun 2025 09:08:47 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=192226

Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma, former National People’s Power (NPP) Member of Parliament and Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning, has been appointedContinue Reading

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Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma, former National People’s Power (NPP) Member of Parliament and Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning, has been appointed Secretary to the Ministry of Finance, the government announced on Monday.

Dr. Suriyapperuma submitted his resignation from Parliament, effective June 20, 2025, in a letter to the Secretary‑General. His departure vacates a National List seat, which the Election Commission has been officially notified, enabling him to take up the new bureaucratic post.

The appointment follows the retirement of former Finance Secretary Mahinda Siriwardana and was confirmed by the President’s Media Division.

A qualified accountant and management professional, Dr. Suriyapperuma holds an MBA from Sri Lanka’s Postgraduate Institute of Management and a PhD in business networking and performance from Malaysia’s Management & Science University. He is a Fellow of CIMA (UK) and a member of ACCA.

Dr. Suriyapperuma served as Director of Corporate Affairs at Sri Lanka’s Securities and Exchange Commission from 2013 to 2021, followed by senior roles in the private sector. He joined the NPP’s Economic Council in 2022 and was appointed a National List MP and Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning after the 2024 general election.

During his seven months as deputy minister, he participated in budget oversight committees, highlighted excessive currency printing, and advocated for tax relief and lower energy costs. He also engaged in negotiations with the IMF and other international creditors, citing a USD 197 million rise in foreign direct investment in the first quarter of 2025.

His elevation to Treasury Secretary marks an unusual shift from a partisan role into top civil service; where the position is traditionally meant to be apolitical. 

NPP supporters point to his combination of academic and professional credentials, while critics have warned that politicizing the post could blur institutional boundaries.

His appointment has drawn scrutiny from some quarters, with observers noting that succeeding Siriwardana—who navigated the ministry through a period of unprecedented crisis—sets a high bar for the new secretary’s performance.

Dr. Suriyapperuma assumes his duties amid ongoing economic reforms under an IMF-supported program and rising external challenges, including evolving trade policies. He is expected to take the lead on preparing the upcoming national budget, advancing debt restructuring talks, liaising with international financial institutions, and implementing tax policy changes.

He will work closely with Finance Minister and President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and Central Bank Governor Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe to align fiscal and monetary strategies aimed at stabilizing the economy, restoring investor confidence and preserving institutional integrity. (Newswire)

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New Secretary to the Ministry of Finance appointed https://www.newswire.lk/2025/06/23/new-secretary-to-the-ministry-of-finance-appointed/ Mon, 23 Jun 2025 06:29:31 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=192174

Former National People’s Power (NPP) MP Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma was appointed as Secretary to the Ministry of Finance today. Dr.Continue Reading

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Former National People’s Power (NPP) MP Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma was appointed as Secretary to the Ministry of Finance today.

Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma served as the Deputy Minister of Finance prior to his new appointment. 

Last week, he tendered his resignation from Parliament, paving the way for his appointment as Secretary to the Ministry of Finance. 

Harshana Suriyapperuma replaces former Finance Ministry Secretary Mahinda Siriwardana, who retired from the post last week. (Newswire)

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Govt reveals US response to SL request https://www.newswire.lk/2025/04/07/govt-reveals-us-response-to-sl-request/ Mon, 07 Apr 2025 06:12:28 +0000 http://www.newswire.lk/?p=182133

The US Government has asked Sri Lanka to propose ways to reduce its trade deficit between the two nations followingContinue Reading

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The US Government has asked Sri Lanka to propose ways to reduce its trade deficit between the two nations following the announcement of 44% reciprocal tariffs, Deputy Minister of Economic Development Anil Jayantha Fernando.

Briefing the media on the impact on Sri Lanka, Deputy Minister Anil Jayantha said the tariffs, which come into effect on 09 April, would effectively reduce the competitiveness of Sri Lanka’s products. 

“The US has asked us to propose ways to reduce our trade deficit with them. We are currently exploring the best strategies to address this issue, including the possibility of revising the existing tariff structure. We have appointed a committee and are conducting discussions on a daily basis. Proposals are being submitted and we will keep everyone informed of the development in due course,” he said.

Deputy Minister Anil Jayantha further said that Sri Lanka is not among the US Government’s group of ‘Dirty 15’ countries, which are nations with substantial trade deficits that are expected to face higher tariffs. 

Also addressing the media, Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning, Harshana Suriyapperuma, said prior to the announcement of the US tariff, a discussion was held with a visiting US delegation on the impending tariff announcement. 

“Discussions were held with a US delegation overlooking the region, on the impending situation, to understand what type of an approach Sri Lanka could take. The fact that even though we have a trade deficit from the perspective of the US, the value of that trade deficit is not that significant compared to some of the other countries. An approach was identified to be addressed after the announcement of the actual numbers,” he said. 

Deputy Minister Harshana Suriyapperuma further said that, subsequent to the announcement on tariffs, swift arrangements were made for industry engagements, and as a result, a committee was appointed to discuss further and have a strategy to deal with the way forward. 

“A decision was made that Sri Lanka will reach out to a very high-level office representation from the US Administration to discuss the current situation. A virtual discussion was held for nearly an hour. Matters were explained at length, specifically highlighting that we are within the current IMF programme. So revenue consultation measures are taking place. What are the approaches that we need to take? They clarified, based on the information that they have access to at that point in time,” he said. 

Deputy Minister Harshana Suriyapperuma revealed during the discussion, the US delegation clarified that Sri Lanka will be imposed only a 44% tax and not the additional 10% tax. 

“They mentioned it is an evolving situation. We will have to wait and see the final decisions on the 09th of April. Depending on how it unfolds, we have to look at the approaches that the other countries are taking, also. So the next meeting is to be scheduled soon, which will discuss more specific outcomes,” he said. 

Deputy Minister Harshana Suriyapperuma said Sri Lanka has suggested a date for the discussion and is awaiting confirmation from the US side. 

The clarification comes after the Donald Trump-led US Government recently imposed reciprocal tariffs on several countries, including Sri Lanka. 

A 44% tariff was imposed on Sri Lankan goods by the United States under President Donald Trump’s revised trade policy.

The move, described by the U.S. as a reciprocal measure in response to what it claims are Sri Lanka’s 88% trade barriers on American goods, places Sri Lanka among the countries facing the highest tariff rates globally.

The United States has long been Sri Lanka’s most important export destination, accounting for 23% of total merchandise exports in 2024. Of nearly 3 billion in exports to the U.S. last year, the vast majority—over 70%—came from the apparel sector. (Newswire)

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SriLankan Airlines embroiled in corruption at international level – Govt https://www.newswire.lk/2025/02/25/srilankan-airlines-embroiled-in-corruption-at-international-level-govt/ Tue, 25 Feb 2025 06:43:23 +0000 http://www.newswire.lk/?p=176559

Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning, Harshana Suriyapperuma says national carrier, SriLankan Airlines is facing a large debt due toContinue Reading

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Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning, Harshana Suriyapperuma says national carrier, SriLankan Airlines is facing a large debt due to political interference of the past regimes, resulting in an ongoing case in international courts.

Addressing the Parliament, Deputy Minister Suriyapperuma said SriLankan Airlines has been found not only to be involved in corruption at the state level but also at the international level. 

“Currently, there is an ongoing case in the international court over claims that commissions were sought during the purchase of planes. Planes have been obtained on lease at exorbitant rates beyond the existing market rates,” he revealed. 

The Deputy Minister further said that the actions and decisions over the past few decades by former regimes related to SriLankan Airlines must be taken into consideration when looking into its debt.

Outlining the measures taken by the government to address the debt, the Deputy Minister of Finance said that they have planned to introduce a 05-year programme from 2025 to 2030.

He further explained that despite the government allocating Rs. 20 billion in its 2025 budget for SriLankan Airlines, the funds will not be utilised for the airlines’ management of operating expenses and that its management is tasked with making it a self-sustaining entity.

Deputy Minister Suriyapperuma also revealed that discussions have commenced with relevant stakeholders to restructure the debt, under which loans have been obtained in US Dollars. 

He assured that measures will be taken to address SriLankan Airlines’ debt without burdening the public. (Newswire)

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Govt provides update on USAID projects https://www.newswire.lk/2025/02/24/govt-provides-update-on-usaid-projects/ Mon, 24 Feb 2025 09:18:50 +0000 http://www.newswire.lk/?p=176421

Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning, Harshana Suriyapperuma says the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is yet toContinue Reading

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Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning, Harshana Suriyapperuma says the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is yet to officially inform the Government of Sri Lanka regarding the impact on its projects, following the executive order by US President Donald Trump on providing international aid. 

Addressing the Parliament today, Deputy Minister Suriyapperuma said that USAID must inform of any freeze of funds, according to their agreement with the Sri Lankan Government.

“USAID has not informed us in writing yet on what will happen to the money it supplies to the Sri Lanka government,” the Deputy Minister said. 

He further said USAID has agreed to inform the government in writing of the cancellation or freeze of funds of any project, due to the current order. 

In February, on the first day of his second term in office, US President Donald Trump signed an executive order freezing foreign aid for at least 90 days. President Trump, who is a long-term critic of overseas spending, has said it does not represent value for money for American taxpayers.

Against this backdrop, US officials also revealed that USAID will be merged with the State Department and will have significant cuts in the workforce but will remain a humanitarian aid entity.

USAID also announced that all USAID direct hire personnel will be placed on administrative leave globally with effect from 07 February 2025, with the exception of designated personnel responsible for mission-critical functions, core leadership, and specially designated programs. (Newswire)

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Finance Ministry warns of fake news related to Deputy Minister https://www.newswire.lk/2025/01/16/finance-ministry-warns-of-fake-news-related-to-deputy-minister/ Thu, 16 Jan 2025 12:03:16 +0000 http://www.newswire.lk/?p=171295

The Ministry of Finance says false information is being circulated on social media linked to Deputy Minister of Finance andContinue Reading

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The Ministry of Finance says false information is being circulated on social media linked to Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning Harshana Suriyapperuma.

Issuing a statement, the Finance Ministry said false information was being spread that the Deputy Minister had made a promotional statement regarding a meeting with TTK Application Promotion Limited, an online business. 

The Finance Ministry clarified that the Deputy Minister had not engaged in any meeting with TTK Application Promotion Limited or any such company. 

Stating that the company in question was utilising the name of the Deputy Minister to illegally collect money, the Finance Ministry said that steps are being taken to initiate legal action. (Newswire)

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