Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa emphasised the need to expand 5G coverage nationwide, incentivise fibre-optic connectivity, partner with global cloud providers, and establish technology investment zones across all 25 districts.
He said Sri Lanka has the potential to become a regional technology hub if it makes strong investments in telecommunications upgrades, data centres, cloud infrastructure, AI education, and large-scale IT talent development.
Premadasa also called for a fully digitalised public service, including a national digital ID, digital signatures, inter-agency data platforms, and 100% online access to services such as licensing, land registry work, court filings, and permits. He highlighted the importance of digital payments, interoperable QR systems, and fintech innovation to build a cashless economy and reduce corruption.
Additionally, he proposed creating a national start-up fund, promoting AI, fintech, agri-tech, and health-tech ventures, offering tech visas to attract global experts, and increasing IT-BPM exports from USD 1.8 billion to USD 10 billion by 2030. He further underscored the need to digitalise traditional sectors like agriculture, tourism, and fisheries, strengthen cybersecurity, update outdated laws, and expand digital literacy across the country.
