President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has called for a balanced approach to develop Sri Lanka’s film industry, stressing that while protecting domestic cinema, audiences should also have access to films produced worldwide.
The President made these remarks during a discussion with film distributors and producers held this morning (26) at the Presidential Secretariat. The meeting focused on addressing key industry challenges, including irregularities in Value Added Tax (VAT) payments and constraints affecting industry expansion.
Film representatives highlighted that the industry achieved its highest-ever revenue in 2025 and requested ongoing government support to sustain this growth. President Dissanayake responded with practical solutions to the concerns raised.
Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs Hiniduma Sunil Senevi, National Film Corporation Chairman Sudath Mahaadivulwewa, and General Manager Ruwan Premaweera represented the government at the discussion.
Veteran actor Sanath Gunathilake, along with film distributors and producers from major companies including Lyca Productions, JP Ceneplex, LFD, EAP, Lite Cinema, CEL, Ceylon Theatres, and PVR, participated in the meeting.
The President emphasized that advancing cinema contributes to the spiritual and cultural development of citizens while ensuring Sri Lankan audiences enjoy a diverse selection of films.
