SJB Raises Concerns Over IMF Programme and Sri Lanka’s Economic Direction

At a media briefing of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), Professor Prasanna Perera of the Department of Economics at the University of Peradeniya discussed the ongoing discussions between the Sri Lankan Government and the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Professor Perera claimed that the discussions with the IMF had concluded with an agreement, but that the Government had not yet issued an official statement regarding it.

He said there was a policy-level agreement between the IMF and the Government and claimed that the Government had accepted the IMF’s economic approach and was preparing to proceed according to the IMF agreements.

He further said that the IMF had identified three economic challenges facing the Government. He also referred to discussions concerning amendments introduced to the Anti-Corruption Act and said the IMF was closely monitoring the 2026 Budget.

According to Professor Perera, SJB Leader Sajith Premadasa had emphasised during discussions with the IMF the need for programmes that go beyond headline macroeconomic indicators.

He said Premadasa had drawn the IMF’s attention to direct and indirect taxation and had urged the Fund to request the Government to present accurate economic data.

Premadasa had also discussed issues including poverty reduction, promoting exports, agriculture and the tourism sector, he said.

Professor Perera stressed that the Government should take steps to present updated economic data to the public.

He also criticised the Government over fuel pricing, claiming that it had no clear understanding of developments affecting fuel prices.

He further claimed that the Government did not have a team capable of rebuilding the economy and said that such a team existed only within the SJB. He also alleged that the IMF was paying attention to what he described as false claims by the Government.

Commenting on the 22nd Amendment, Professor Perera said it was unclear how international organisations would respond to its passage. He claimed that it could have an impact on trade agreements and investments.

He also alleged that the Government was continuing the economic approach of former President Ranil Wickremesinghe without significant changes and claimed that it lacked the ability to make the necessary leap required for economic growth.

Professor Perera said the SJB was pleased that the law was being properly implemented in the country. However, he stressed that law enforcement was the responsibility of the relevant institutions and should not be politicised.

Note: The IMF publicly stated on September 23, 2026 that its discussions with the Sri Lankan authorities were continuing, with the goal of reaching a staff-level agreement for the Seventh Review.