Mihin Lanka eyes more destinations with new plane

By Azhar Razak
Sri Lanka’s low cost carrier Mihin Lanka, which currently services five destinations, is planning to add three more destinations, following the lease of a new aircraft expected to come on-board in November 2010.

Govt should use mobile phones to tackle poverty: UNCTAD

By Azhar Razak
Governments and policymakers in developing countries should take full advantage of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) to combat poverty reduction, a recent research report has highlighted.

DEBENTURE ISSUE TO PARTLY FUND ‘PORT CITY’ PROJECT

By Azhar Razak

Following the example set out by the Urban Development Authority (UDA), Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) is likely to opt for a debenture issue to fund the much exaggerated ‘Port City’ project, which plans to change Sri Lanka’s map.

Industry expectations rise ahead of budget

Investors and stakeholders voice specific concerns

By Azhar Razak

The government’s 2011 budget, which kicked off last week with the appropriation bill (first reading) being presented in Parliament, is expected to be the first step of a three-year development plan for the country.
The budget will be vital for foreign and local investors as it might signal the government’s future policy direction being the first proper budget since the end of the war in May 2009.

Conducive biz climate vital to double per capita income

By Azhar Razak
The Sri Lankan government should lay out a very conducive business environment to attract greater private sector investment, if the island is to achieve its ambitious medium term per capita income target

Hydro Power Lanka to expand with Rs. 3.5m IPO

By Azhar Razak
Joint venture mini-hydro power firm, Hydro Power Free Lanka Ltd (HPFL) said it plans to fund its planned future expansions by raising Rs. 3.5 million through its forthcoming Initial Public Offering (IPO).