Cabinet Sub-Committee Assesses Economic Risks from Middle East Conflict

Key areas of concern included trade, tourism, foreign employment, and foreign reserves. The committee reviewed Sri Lanka’s current reserves and future import orders for crude oil, gas, and coal. While no immediate disruptions are anticipated, members agreed to identify alternative suppliers and strengthen reserves of essential imports.

The committee also discussed potential setbacks to Sri Lankan exports—particularly tea—to the Middle East and emphasized exploring new markets. In addition, they addressed risks to foreign remittances and agreed to monitor the safety of Sri Lankan workers in the region, with contingency plans for repatriation if necessary.

Ministers and top officials from trade, energy, finance, foreign affairs, and plantation industries attended the meeting, alongside the Chairman of the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation.