Sri Lanka's cabinet has greenlit security service contracts worth Rs1.11 billion for the National Savings Bank, while the government simultaneously moves to streamline investment processes and strengthen international trade ties.
The cabinet of ministers has approved contracts with seven security firms to provide services to the National Savings Bank over a two-year period beginning October 1, 2026, at a total cost of Rs1,116.82 million excluding value added tax. The decision followed an open bidding process that attracted 14 submissions. The selected firms are Brave Guard Security & Investigation Services, Gajashakthi Security Service, X Force Security Services, Secure Security & Investigations, Crown Royal Security Services, Dilco Security and Investigation, and REDFORCE Security.
In parallel developments aimed at boosting economic activity, the cabinet has approved the creation of a National Business Facilitation Centre under the Presidential Secretariat. According to minister Nalinda Jayatissa, the centre will address fragmented approval processes that currently require investors to navigate multiple government institutions separately. The initiative is designed to streamline approvals across project development, environmental clearances, regulatory permits, and utility connections. Jayatissa clarified that the new centre will not replace the Board of Investment but rather coordinate cross-agency processes through a steering committee comprising ministry secretaries and institutional heads.
On the trade front, a delegation from the Ceylon Chamber's Sri Lanka-Australia-New Zealand Business Council visited Australia to explore commercial opportunities. The team engaged with Australian parliamentarians, trade bodies, and business communities across Canberra, Melbourne, and Sydney, focusing on technology, venture capital, fisheries, and logistics sectors. Discussions included potential reciprocal trade missions and sector-specific cooperation frameworks.
Elsewhere, water supply resumed across parts of the Western Province following a chemical incident in the Kelani River on August 24. The National Water Supply and Drainage Board temporarily suspended operations at treatment plants but resumed distribution after confirming water quality compliance with safety standards. Additionally, the Colombo Marathon 2026 has achieved World Athletics recognition, allowing performances to contribute to official global rankings when held on September 13.
