Sri Lanka sets sights on becoming regional AI hub with national strategy approval

The Cabinet of Ministers on Monday approved implementing a national strategy on artificial intelligence (AI) to position Sri Lanka as a regional hub, and enhance the global competitiveness and resilience of the economy by 2030.

The approved plan outlines the roadmap to harness AI technology to modernise public services and improve major economic sectors. The strategy emphasises the need for increased investment in AI Research and Development (R&D), fostering innovation and building the necessary infrastructure to support AI-driven initiatives.

“Sri Lanka’s national strategy on AI has been designed with the goal of creating an empowered, digitised country,” Cabinet Spokesman and Minister Bandula Gunawardena said on Tuesday at the weekly post-Cabinet meeting media briefing.

Despite making strides in digital transformation, Sri Lanka has yet to leave a significant mark on the global AI landscape. However, the Government now sees a pathway to boost efficiency in key sectors such as agriculture, healthcare and education through use of AI. 

He said these advancements could drive sustainable economic growth, alleviate poverty and ensure equitable distribution of AI benefits across society. 

“The implementation of the national AI strategy is expected to significantly boost the country’s global standing and provide opportunities for technological advancements that benefit all levels of society,” Gunawardena said.