Sri Lanka reports $102.2 bn public debt and plans Rs 2 trillion capital spending

Deputy Finance Minister Anil Jayantha Fernando told Parliament that the total public sector debt of Sri Lanka stands at approximately US$102.2 billion, covering both domestic and foreign borrowings accumulated over decades. The figure highlights the scale of the fiscal challenge as the country continues negotiations with bilateral and commercial creditors under an IMF‑backed debt‑restructuring programme.

Health and Mass Media Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa announced that the government intends to allocate around Rs 2 trillion for capital expenditure in the coming year, following a Rs 1.35 trillion allocation this year. The plan includes funding for rural road upgrades in the Kalutara District under the Integrated Road Investment Program, with support from the Asian Development Bank, as well as bridges, culverts and other infrastructure projects. Jayatissa noted rising state revenue, record export earnings, higher foreign remittances and continued tourism improvement.