The new Sri Lankan government is sending strong signals that Sri Lanka is open for business for the mineral sands sector.
- Geological Survey and Mines Bureau transferred from Ministry of Environment to the Ministry of Industry
- New National Mineral Policy effective from 1 June 2026
- The Hon. Sunil Handunneththi MP, Sri Lanka’s Minister of Industry & Entrepreneurship Development, gave the opening address to the recent Mineral Sands Technical Conference on 17 June 2026
- Sri Lanka actively seeking international partners for government-owned minerals projects
- Experienced industry professional and chartered Geologist appointed new Director General of GSMB in April 2026
- Framework for sustainable mining and investment
In November 2025, the Hon. Sunil Handunneththi MP signalled strong direction for Sri Lanka’s Minerals Sector.
As the Minister of Industries… I am committed to advancing… the mineral resources industry to strengthen the national economy, enhance export earnings, and foster innovation.
Sri Lanka must attract genuine investors with the capacity to bring meaningful and sustainable investment to the country. The global market possesses many such stakeholders, and it is essential to identify and engage them appropriately.
Our ultimate aim is to ensure that the nation’s mineral wealth is developed sustainably, protected environmentally, and preserved responsibly for the benefit of future generations.
The first step towards achieving this goal is to secure Parliamentary approval for the National Mineral Policy and to ensure that it is well communicated both nationally and internationally.
