Addressing a press conference, he claimed that sensitive fiscal decisions were accessed before official publication, allowing certain importers to benefit from an old tax structure. According to him, this has resulted in 1,782 vehicles being imported under previously applicable tax concessions, creating what he described as unfair market gains and revenue losses for the state.
Weerawansa warned that such developments are placing additional pressure on the country’s limited dollar reserves and contributing to the rapid depreciation of the rupee. He further alleged that poor economic decision-making and weak oversight have worsened the situation.
He also pointed to inefficiencies in energy and import management, claiming that coal handling losses and increased reliance on expensive fuel imports are deepening the foreign exchange crisis. He alleged that a portion of imported coal is wasted during unloading, forcing additional diesel imports for power generation.
The NFF leader said delays in cost-reflective tariff adjustments had previously contributed to setbacks in International Monetary Fund (IMF) disbursements, including a suspended US$350 million tranche. He warned that future price revisions in electricity and fuel could further burden the public.
Weerawansa estimated that Sri Lanka would require between US$7 billion and US$8 billion to stabilize the currency, while claiming that the country currently lacks sufficient international support to secure such funding. He also criticized limited engagement with emerging geopolitical alliances, saying it has weakened economic recovery prospects.
He further claimed that growing uncertainty is discouraging remittances from migrant workers and prompting foreign investors to withdraw funds from local markets.
Authorities have not responded to the allegations
