President orders expedited release of lands for industrial development

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A meeting between President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and officials of the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development was held at the Presidential Secretariat.

The discussions focused on enhancing the efficiency, integration, and development of the manufacturing sector to strengthen the national economy, as well as addressing the challenges associated with these efforts, according to the President’s Media Division (PMD).

Key topics included government-led initial investments and proper regulations to empower small- and medium-scale entrepreneurs, the establishment of local small-scale industries within investment zones, and challenges related to business loans faced by small- and medium-scale enterprises.

The President directed officials to expedite the release of lands allocated to the Ministry of Industry that had not been released so far, the PMD said.

Further discussions were held on maintaining and regulating import restrictions to strengthen local industries, prioritize local suppliers in construction industry procurement, and resolve issues in the gem and jewelry sectors to ensure their full contribution to the national economy.

The President instructed officials to swiftly implement tax exemptions for tourists to boost the gem and jewelry industry, the statement further said.