Parliamentarians briefed on Government’s digital economy strategy

In a concerted effort to enhance awareness on the Government’s digital economy policies, a special session was held at the Parliamentary committee complex, bringing together parliamentarians from both ruling and opposition parties.

The event aimed to outline the Government’s strategic approach to digitalisation, a key focus area in its policy framework and national budget.

Deputy Minister of Digital Economy Eranga Weeraratne, Secretary to the Ministry of Digital Economy Waruna Sri Dhanapala, and Chief Advisor to the President on Digital Economy Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya were among the key figures present at the event, alongside ministry officials and representatives from affiliated institutions.

Speaking at the session, Deputy Minister Weeraratne emphasised that the establishment of the Ministry of Digital Economy reflects the Government’s commitment to accelerating economic growth through digitalisation. 

He further elaborated on the structural reforms within the Information and Communication Technology Agency (ICTA), which will now operate under two divisions within the ministry. Additionally, he provided insights into the roles of the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka (TRCSL) and the Data Protection Authority (DPA), with a strong emphasis on ensuring data security.

The Deputy Minister reaffirmed the Government’s dedication to protecting citizens’ data, announcing that the implementation of the Personal Data Protection Act, originally set for enforcement this month, has been postponed by six months to allow for further refinements.

The Government’s digital economy strategy is structured around five key focus areas, designed to facilitate comprehensive economic growth.

Public Sector Digitalisation, a major component of the strategy involves digitising public services to improve accessibility, efficiency, and security while reducing bureaucracy and curbing corruption. Digital identity and digitalised payment mechanisms will play a crucial role in this transformation.

Digital Economy Expansion with Sri Lanka currently generating $ 1.2 billion from its digital industry, the Government aims to elevate this figure to $ 5 billion in the near future. Digital Industry Expansion by promoting digital payment platforms like GovPay, the Government intends to optimise financial investments and target a digital revenue increase to $ 15 billion within five years. The Ministry of Digital Economy is actively working towards integrating digital technology into crucial sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and trade, thereby enhancing efficiency and growth in these industries. Digital Capacity Building, recognising the importance of a skilled workforce in driving digital transformation, the Government is committed to establishing educational programs that improve digital literacy and produce highly skilled professionals in the technology sector.

Chief Adviser to the President on Digital Economy Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya, noted that while discussions on digital transformation have been ongoing for two decades, the real implementation process is now materialising. He outlined the economic benefits of digitalisation and how the Government’s policy framework will ensure a smooth transition.

The session provided an opportunity for Parliamentarians to engage in discussions with key officials from the Ministry of Digital Economy, ICTA, TRCSL, DPA, and the Department of Registration of Persons. Questions regarding institutional responsibilities, future initiatives, and policy implementation strategies were effectively addressed.

With digital transformation set to play a pivotal role in Sri Lanka’s economic future, the Government remains focused on fostering an inclusive digital economy, enhancing regulatory frameworks, and driving technological advancements across multiple sectors.