Public Finance Push: Sri Lanka plans to cut recurrent spending and lift development capital spending sharply in 2027, with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake flagging Rs. 2 trillion for capital expenditure (about 40% higher) and a bigger role for digital public services. Customs Digitalisation: Sri Lanka Customs will introduce a paperless customs declaration system, linking LankaSign digital signatures with ASYCUDA to speed clearance and reduce document-tampering and fraud, targeted for launch on Oct. 1. Revenue Momentum: Sri Lanka Customs exceeded its July revenue target for a seventh straight month, collecting 227.6bn rupees by day 27 against a 192.4bn target, helped by stronger enforcement and a rebound in imports. Banking for Tourism: DFCC Bank rolled out Sri Lanka’s first eight-language ATMs and Cash Recycler Machines at key tourist and arrival locations, aiming to make cash transactions easier for visitors and locals. Pharma Export Ambition: Sri Lanka’s pharma manufacturers are urging faster product registration and regulatory reforms to shift from import substitution to exporting, targeting the US$1.8tn global market. Tech & Compliance: Treasury is overhauling the Public Debt Management Office after a major forex cyber fraud exposed governance and control gaps, with structural changes to rebuild confidence. Business Links: Canada–Sri Lanka talks highlighted trade, investment and tourism opportunities under Canada’s Indo-Pacific strategy, while Sri Lanka’s Milan forum drew Italian interest in investment and Expo 2027 participation.