In a critique posted on X, Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) MP Dr. Harsha de Silva has raised concerns about the credibility of the government’s reported foreign direct investment (FDI) figures for the first quarter of 2025.
De Silva highlighted a stark contrast between the figures publicly cited by Minister Sunil Handunnetti and the actual inflows.
“Sunil H claimed $650 million in FDI for Q1 2025 and now the President @anuradisanayake boasts $4.67 billion. But the truth? Only $80 million is estimated from 11 new deals signed this quarter,” he wrote.
He further noted that an additional $203 million came not from new investor confidence, but from legacy agreements signed during 2022–2024. “We demand the real facts,” he added, suggesting that the numbers being quoted by the government may be misleading and do not accurately reflect the current investment situation.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, also posting on X, had earlier stated that Sri Lanka saw a 90% increase in FDI in Q1 2025 — a $96 million rise — along with a $21 million increase in domestic investment and $176 million growth in exports. According to him, total FDI for 2025 now stands at $4.67 billion.
“The BOI is focused on new sectors and sustainable growth. It’s time to move beyond missed opportunities,” the President said. (NewsWire)
Sunil H claimed $650 million in FDI for Q1 2025 & now the Pres @anuradisanayake boasts $3.4 billion. But the truth? Only $80 million is estimated from 11 new deals signed this quarter. Then $203 million inflow from old agreements signed back in 2022-24. We demand the real facts! https://t.co/C5QxsK5LLd
— Harsha de Silva (@HarshadeSilvaMP) June 21, 2025
