Business and Economics
Tea exports for the month of September 2023 totalled 23.16 M/Kgs, showing an increase of 1.62 M/Kgs vis-à-vis 21.54 M/Kgs of September 2022. Majority of the product categories except for Bulk Tea and Instant Tea have witnessed an increase against the corresponding period in 2022.
January-September FOB values were up by Rs. 256.96 to Rs. 1,784.67 YoY. Negative variances were recorded in most categories except for instant tea and green tea categories in USD terms. Despite the Middle East tension Iraq has emerged as the No. 1 major importer of ‘Ceylon Tea’ with a total of 25.83 M/Kgs from January-September 2023.
Türkiye has secured second position with 23.50 M/Kgs, an increase of 54.13% vis-à-vis 10.78 M/Kgs imported last year, the Forbes & Walker (Pvt) Ltd report said. Russia has maintained its position at third place with 17.47 M/Kgs followed by U.A.E. with 13.19 M/Kgs, which has witnessed a decline of 21% YoY. China has secured the fifth position with a marginal increase in imports by 4.2% YoY. Other notable importers are, namely, Syria, Azerbaijan, Saudi Arabia, Chile and Germany.
The SLT-MOBITEL mSpace Code Blast Hackathon 2023 concluded on a thrilling note recently bringing together aspiring innovators and coding enthusiasts who showcased innovative technology contributing to the nation’s digital advancement.
SLT-MOBITEL, the National ICT Solutions Provider, together with hSenid Mobile, organised the Hackathon, providing a dynamic platform for both coders and non-coders to collaborate, innovate, and create tech-driven solutions.
The mSpace Code Blast Hackathon 2023 witnessed fierce competition among the participants, however three teams emerged as the frontrunners.
SLIIT, renowned for its unwavering commitment to education excellence is embarking on an exciting new chapter expanding horizons with the official opening of SLIIT Kandy Uni, in Pallakele; the latest addition to the SLIIT network is set to redefine the educational landscape in Sri Lanka.
The new facility offering a state-of-the-art teaching and learning environment and modern amenities were ceremoniously opened by The President Ranil Wickremesinghe, on Monday 09th of October 2023 on the invitation extended by SLIIT Chancellor, Professor L. L. Ratnayake and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Lalith Gamage, along with the presence of other distinguished guests. The inauguration of SLIIT Kandy Uni marks a significant milestone in SLIIT’s mission to provide accessible and quality education to aspiring local and international students in the picturesque city of Kandy.
At the event, The President Hon. Ranil Wickremesinghe emphasized that Sri Lanka's path to economic prosperity hinges on its geographical location and its human resources. He also highlighted the successes of countries like Singapore and Hong Kong, which have flourished by harnessing their workforce effectively. Following the unveiling of the commemorative plaque, the President inaugurated the university and conducted an on-site tour, engaging with students to learn about their educational endeavours.
Expressing his views further, President Wickremesinghe said;
There are plans in motion to establish these universities through a collaborative effort between the government and the private sector. A key focus has been placed on reinvesting profits into these universities and the possibility of profit-sharing universities is being explored.
