Building a competitive economy imperative for SL’s success - Harsha

•  Says SJB intends to foster manufacturing-based economy in SL
•  Highlights necessity for structural economic reforms in country
•  Claims SJB once in power would revise taxes to reflect a more fair approach

Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) MP Dr. Harsha de Silva yesterday underscored the necessity of establishing a competitive economy capable of competing on the international stage, emphasising that Sri Lanka’s success hinges on this imperative. Addressing a press conference at the Opposition leader’s office in Colombo, the MP noted that the SJB is actively pursuing the fundamental idea of fostering a manufacturing-based economy in Sri Lanka and is in the process of implementing a program aimed at penetrating the global market through this manufacturing-focused approach.

“The revival of Sri Lanka cannot be achieved solely through import substitution. The focus should be on integrating the country into the global market by emphasising exports. Our perspective is to engage with the world, establish connections with other nations, and enhance participation in the global market. To accomplish this, substantial economic reforms are essential,” he said. 

The MP also highlighted the necessity for structural economic reforms in the country, asserting that progress is unattainable without debt restructuring. 

De Silva emphasised that prioritising the well-being of the country demands the advancement of the debt restructuring process. He also noted the SJB once in power would be able to reform taxes to reflect a more fair approach towards the public. 

“We have proposed options for revising the tax policy, aiming to amend it and promote fairness,” he noted.