President Anura Kumara Dissanayake chaired a discussion at the Presidential Secretariat this afternoon on developing Sri Lanka’s mineral industry in line with the export-oriented National Mineral Policy 2026.Officials from the Sri Lanka Mineral Sands Association (SLMSA) and the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau participated in the meeting, which focused on the exploration, extraction and value addition of the country’s mineral resources.The discussion examined measures to systematically utilize Sri Lanka’s mineral resources to contribute to economic growth and boost export earnings.

Particular attention was given to improving infrastructure, introducing incentives to attract investors and strengthening research and development to support the expansion of domestic manufacturing industries.The participants also discussed urgent measures to attract both foreign and local investment while addressing challenges faced by the mineral sector.President Dissanayake highlighted the need to resolve difficulties encountered by investors when dealing with government institutions, particularly delays and other obstacles in obtaining licenses required for mining activities.The meeting also considered weaknesses in the existing policy framework, with the President stressing the importance of ensuring maximum transparency in the process of attracting investments.

He further emphasized the need for effective coordination among all institutions involved in the development and regulation of the mineral industry.