Former Deputy Leader of the United National Party and MP Ravi Karunanayake has warned that Sri Lanka’s tea industry is being adversely affected by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, particularly in Iran.
Speaking in Parliament, the MP said there are reports that some companies have been advised to temporarily refrain from picking tea leaves due to disruptions linked to the crisis.
He noted that while efforts are being made to attract foreign investment to boost income, equal attention must be given to strengthening the rupee.
The MP pointed out that although the Central Bank of Sri Lanka has been granted institutional independence, the broader economic system has yet to achieve the desired level of stability.
He stressed that increasing dollar reserves through investment, while also preventing an energy crisis, is essential to stabilise the currency.
The MP further emphasized that Sri Lanka must act strategically and seize available opportunities even amid global uncertainty.
