The Hon. (Dr.) Harini Amarasuriya - Prime Minister

¶ 01 Hon. Speaker, replies are as follows:

¶ 02 1) As part of a national initiative to accelerate Sri Lanka’s journey towards becoming a digitally empowered nation, September has been designated “Digital Economy Month.” The Month aims to raise awareness on digitalization and to demonstrate the Government’s strong commitment to building a future-ready economy. Activities will run continuously from the start of September for 100 days.

¶ 03 Primary objectives: - Raise awareness among citizens, businesses and institutions on the importance of adopting digital tools and services; accelerate adoption across society of e-Government platforms, digital financial solutions and AI-driven innovation. - Accelerate digital projects executed under the Ministry of Digital Economy with 68 partner institutions so that benefits reach citizens and businesses faster. - Support the Government’s ambitious targets by 2030: expand the digital economy to USD 15 billion (about 12 percent of GDP), increase digital exports to USD 5 billion, and grow the digital workforce to 200,000. The Month will clearly communicate this ambition and align public and private sectors to realize it. - Position Sri Lanka as a regional hub of excellence in technology innovation, digital infrastructure and AI-led transformation in South Asia.

¶ 04 The Ministry of Digital Economy will provide overall guidance, coordination and strategic oversight. Agencies under its purview will implement aligned activities within their mandates to ensure a whole-of-society approach. Private-sector partners — technology companies, banks, fintechs and startups — will introduce solutions, share use-cases and promote adoption among citizens and businesses. Government, industry and social stakeholders will together build a robust enabling ecosystem.

¶ 05 The programme comprises a series of high-impact activities designed to showcase innovation, expand digital literacy and promote adoption across society, including:

¶ 06 Flagship events: - Disrupt Asia Festival and Expo (Sept. 17–20): Showcasing startups, entrepreneurs and the innovation ecosystem. - Sri Lanka FinTech Summit (Sept. 24–25): Promoting use of digital infrastructure, adoption and new solutions. - National AI Expo: A country-wide exhibition on artificial intelligence.

¶ 07 Further activities and expected outcomes will be communicated as the programme progresses.