Central Bank of Sri Lanka launches Jaffna digital payments drive and adds 26 unauthorised firms to prohibited list

The Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) organised a two‑day Digital Payments Promotional Programme in Jaffna on 7‑8 August 2026. Held at Cargills Square, the event aimed to raise awareness of digital payment methods among government officials, businesses and the public. Northern Province Governor Nagalingam Vethanayahan attended as chief guest, and representatives from banks, non‑bank financial institutions and LankaPay provided personalised assistance to help participants register for and use services such as the LANKAQR payment acceptance facility.

In a separate regulatory move, CBSL updated its prohibited list, now naming 26 companies and mobile applications that operate without authorisation. The list highlights the “TM App” as an example of an unauthorised platform that promoted financial activities without a licence. The bank warned consumers to avoid transactions with any listed entities and urged reporting of suspicious activity, emphasizing the risk of loss and lack of legal recourse for users of such services.