What's the government response timeline for Sri Lanka?

Sri Lankan government starts daily situation reports and urge caution. http://www.epid.gov.lk/web/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=225&Itemid=487&lang=en

Government issues initial testing and contact tracing protocols. http://www.epid.gov.lk/web/images/pdf/Circulars/Corona_virus/revisionsummary.pdf

Government issues initial testing and contact tracing protocols. http://www.epid.gov.lk/web/images/pdf/Circulars/Corona_virus/revisionsummary.pdf

All government schools will be temporarily closed from tomorrow (13) till 20 April, the Ministry of Education announced. Further, the Catholic Education Office of Colombo announced all private and international schools in Colombo will be closed from 13 March. https://colombogazette.com/2020/03/12/government-schools-to-be-closed-till-april/

From 14 March, Sri Lanka banned public events and gatherings for 2 weeks. These included festivals, meeting and funeral gatherings. https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/coronavirus-sri-lanka-bans-public-events-as-cases-rises-to-8/article31069806.ece https://menafn.com/1099853074/Sri-Lanka-Mass-gatherings-banned-for-two-weeks Sri Lanka has been under a 24-hour curfew since March 20. https://www.deccanherald.com/international/coronavirus-sri-lanka-to-lift-nationwide-curfew-on-april-27-829717.html

From 14 March, Sri Lanka banned public events and gatherings for 2 weeks. These included festivals, meeting and funeral gatherings. https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/coronavirus-sri-lanka-bans-public-events-as-cases-rises-to-8/article31069806.ece https://menafn.com/1099853074/Sri-Lanka-Mass-gatherings-banned-for-two-weeks Sri Lanka has been under a 24-hour curfew since March 20. https://www.deccanherald.com/international/coronavirus-sri-lanka-to-lift-nationwide-curfew-on-april-27-829717.html

All travel beginning from Iran, Italy and South Korea to Sri Lanka was banned from 14 March 2020. It was extended to the United Kingdom, Belgium and Norway on 16 March. Source: http://www.caa.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&layout=blog&id=158&Itemid=1694

From 14 March, Sri Lanka announcements start increasing. Since then the President and Ministry of Health have been quite active on social media. This continued throughout the nationwide curfew which started on 20 March. http://www.epid.gov.lk/web/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=225&Itemid=487&lang=en https://twitter.com/gotabayar https://twitter.com/moh_srilanka https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/coronavirus-sri-lanka-bans-public-events-as-cases-rises-to-8/article31069806.ece https://www.deccanherald.com/international/coronavirus-sri-lanka-to-lift-nationwide-curfew-on-april-27-829717.html

From 17 March, Sri Lanka declares a three-day public holiday due to concerns over virus; Tweet from President: https://twitter.com/GotabayaR/status/1239723045004038145 From 20 March, Sri-Lanka had a "Work from home" week until 27/03. This was further extended till 03 April and then till 20 April https://www.lankabusinessonline.com/sri-lanka-govt-declares-work-from-home-week/ https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-extends-coronavirus-curfews-work-from-home-till-apr-03-to-bottle-covid-19-with-count-at-106-62371/ https://www.thestar.com.my/news/regional/2020/04/13/sri-lanka-extends-work-from-home-policy-till-april-20

All schools and universities in Sri Lanka have been closed from 18 March. https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/03/coronavirus-pandemic-sri-lanka-schools-close-weeks-200318120811102.html From 20 March Sri Lanka has been under nationwide curfew, which meant that schools remained closed. https://www.president.gov.lk/island-wide-curfew-imposed/ (not archivable) The Sri Lankan government is expected to reconsider its decision to open universities and schools on 11 May. https://www.universityworldnews.com/post.php?story=20200425104932101

On 18 March, Sri Lanka has declared police curfew in several areas in the Puttalam district https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-declares-curfew-to-fight-coronavirus-in-puttalam-59868/

On 18 March, Sri Lanka has declared police curfew in several areas in the Puttalam district https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-declares-curfew-to-fight-coronavirus-in-puttalam-59868/

From 19 March, all international Airports in Sri Lanka have been closed for operation of inward international commercial passenger flights. http://www.caa.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&layout=blog&id=158&Itemid=1694

On 20 March Sri Lanka imposed nationwide curfew. Though no specific statement about public transit was made, statements on the same day include public transportation as an "essential service," for which "continuous supply" should be ensured. https://www.president.gov.lk/island-wide-curfew-imposed/ (not archivable), https://www.president.gov.lk/march-20th-to-27th-declared-as-work-from-home-week/ (not archivable) https://news.lk/news/political-current-affairs/item/29803-navy-engaged-in-a-programme-of-disinfecting-inter-provincial-main-passenger-bus-terminal-colombo Further, the President tweeted asking people that still use public transport to keep at least one metre distance; https://twitter.com/GotabayaR/status/1241731600636772353

On 20 March Sri Lanka imposed nationwide curfew till 6am on 23 March. https://www.president.gov.lk/island-wide-curfew-imposed/ (not archivable)

On 20 March Sri Lanka imposed nationwide curfew till 6am on 23 March. https://www.president.gov.lk/island-wide-curfew-imposed/ (not archivable)

Government reimposes curfew, bans inter-district travel in districts of Colombo, Gampaha Puttalam and all the 5 districts in the Northern Province (including public transport -> "completely prohibited." This was further verified by Facebook comments on the page of the National Transportation Board); https://www.president.gov.lk/announcement-on-curfew-2/ (not archivable); https:/twitter.com/GotabayaR/status/1241992116802179072

On 24 March, residents under curfew in Colombo, Gampaha Puttalam and all the 5 districts in the Northern Province were allowed to briefly leave their homes for 6 hours to get essential goods. https://www.president.gov.lk/announcement-on-curfew-2/ (not archivable); https:/twitter.com/GotabayaR/status/1241992116802179072

On 27 March, the curfew was lifted for 6 hours in Colombo, Gampaha Puttalam and all the 5 districts in the Northern Province. In the remaining districts, curfew was lifted for 6 hours on 26 March. These exceptions were made to allow people to purchase essential goods and supplies. https://www.president.gov.lk/announcement-on-curfew-2/ (not archivable);

Government extends curfew nationwide until further notice. "While the curfew is in force no one should be on the roads at their freewill. Only the delivery vehicles permitted by the Task Force are allowed to ply. No other vehicle will be allowed on public roads without a valid curfew pass."; https://www.president.gov.lk/nouncement-on-curfew/ (not archivable) The curfew has since been extended till 20 April. https://www.thestar.com.my/news/regional/2020/04/13/sri-lanka-extends-work-from-home-policy-till-april-20

Department of Epidemiology posts Exposure History of Covid-19 diagnosed cases of Sri Lanka as of 27/03/2020; http://www.epid.gov.lk/web/images/pdf/Circulars/Corona_virus/connections%20new%20v02.pdf (not archivable)

On 30 March, curfew was lifted in some districts for 8 hours to allow people to purchase essential goods/supplies. https://www.president.gov.lk/updated-announcement-on-curfew-2/ (not archivable)

The President recently announced on March 30 that cash transfer payments totaling around 0.1 percent of GDP will be made to vulnerable groups. https://www.imf.org/en/Topics/imf-and-covid19/Policy-Responses-to-COVID-19#S

Nationwide curfew was lifted between 6am and 2pm to allow for essential goods/supplies and then reimposed, but curfew remained in place the entire day in Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutura, Puttalam, Kandy and Jaffna ("High risk zones") https://www.president.gov.lk/curfew-notice-april-1st/ (not archivable, date: 01.04.)

Nationwide curfew was lifted between 6am and 2pm to allow people to buy essential goods/supplies and then reimposed, but curfew remained in place the entire day in Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutura, Puttalam, Kandy and Jaffna ("High risk zones") https://www.president.gov.lk/curfew-notice-april-1st/ (not archivable, date: 01.04.)

Government revises initial testing and contact tracing protocols, but keeps contact follow-up recommendation the same; http://www.epid.gov.lk/web/images/pdf/Circulars/Corona_virus/revisionsummary.pdf

LKA updates testing policy, lists a number of cases for tests. Confirmed contact or prior travel to risk region no longer required for tests. http://www.epid.gov.lk/web/images/pdf/Circulars/Corona_virus/scan164.pdf

Traveling to and from all districts has been completely prohibited except for the purpose of providing essential services.; https://www.president.gov.lk/updated-announcement-on-curfew-3/ (not archivable)

Link: thestar.com.my/news/regional/2020/04/13/sri-lanka-extends-work-from-home-policy-till-april-20 Quote: "The Government has issued guidelines to heads of state entities especially in the district of Colombo as to how to resume work after the curfew is lifted on Wednesday" (which means curfew implemented until Tuesday) Link: https://www.president.gov.lk/state-bodies-told-how-to-resume-work-once-curfew-relaxed/

Nationwide curfew was lifted between 6am and 4pm to allow for purchasing of essential goods/supplies and then reimposed, but curfew remained in place the entire day in Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara, Puttalam, Kandy and Jaffna ("High risk zones") https://www.president.gov.lk/updated-announcement-on-curfew-3/ (not archivable, date: 08.04.)

Source 1: https://www.indepthnews.net/index.php/opinion/3518-sri-lanka-has-been-successful-in-countering-covid-19 Source 2: https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-coronavirus-contact-tracing-gaps-plugged-as-incubation-of-sars-cov-2-suspected-to-top-20-days-64717/

Source 1: https://www.indepthnews.net/index.php/opinion/3518-sri-lanka-has-been-successful-in-countering-covid-19 Source 2: https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-coronavirus-contact-tracing-gaps-plugged-as-incubation-of-sars-cov-2-suspected-to-top-20-days-64717/

Source 1: https://www.indepthnews.net/index.php/opinion/3518-sri-lanka-has-been-successful-in-countering-covid-19 Source 2: https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-coronavirus-contact-tracing-gaps-plugged-as-incubation-of-sars-cov-2-suspected-to-top-20-days-64717/

Curfew lifted and reimposed after 10 hours, travel remains suspended; https://www.president.gov.lk/updated-announcement-on-curfew-4/ (not archivable)

Curfew lifted and reimposed after 10 hours, travel remains suspended; https://www.president.gov.lk/updated-announcement-on-curfew-5/ (not archivable)

Nationwide curfew was lifted between 6am and 4pm to allow people to acquire essential goods/supplies and then reimposed, but curfew remained in place the entire day in Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara, Puttalam, Kandy and Jaffna ("High risk zones") https://www.president.gov.lk/updated-announcement-on-curfew-4/ (not archivable, date: 11.04.)

Quote: The Sri Lankan government will reconsider its decision to open universities and schools on 11 May on account of the sudden rise of the number of COVID-19 patients in Colombo, writes Kelum Bandara for the Daily Mirror. Link: https://www.universityworldnews.com/post.php?story=20200425104932101 Note: The above link validates that schools and universities are closed until 25th April. Initial closure quote: Sri Lanka schools close for five weeks. All schools and universities in the country are now closed as it braces for a rise in coronavirus cases. Link: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/03/coronavirus-pandemic-sri-lanka-schools-close-weeks-200318120811102.html?utm_source=website&utm_medium=article_page&utm_campaign=read_more_links Quote (April 25th): Schools, universities, tuition classes and other education institutes and cinemas will remain closed until further notice. Link: https://www.president.gov.lk/regulations-to-maintain-normalcy-in-civilian-life-during-curfew-period/

Restrictions on public events still in place.

While the government recommends not gathering and enforces very strict curfews, it does not seem like there are specific restrictions on private gatherings.

Quote: "Busses, vans and rail carriages should transport only the half of the passengers of the full capacity." Link: https://www.president.gov.lk/curfew-regulations-relaxed-to-restore-normalcy-in-civilian-life/

Curfew lifted in some districts, but movements between districts continue to be banned except for essential services including office work.; https://www.president.gov.lk/curfew-regulations-relaxed-to-restore-normalcy-in-civilian-life/ (not archivable)

Sr Lankan government imposed a ban on all passenger flights and ships. However, few commercial flights (Sri Lankan Airlines and Qatar Airways allowed to operate for a limited period of time). Link: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/03/coronavirus-travel-restrictions-border-shutdowns-country-200318091505922.html Limited flights (Link 1): https://lk.usembassy.gov/health%e2%80%afalert-u-s-embassy-colombo-sri-lanka-april-15-2020/ (Link 2): https://lk.usembassy.gov/health-alert-u-s-embassy-colombo-sri-lanka-april-22-2020/

Sri Lanka lifts nationwide curfew, but curfew remains in place in Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara, Puttalam, Kandy, Kegalle and Ampara; https://www.president.gov.lk/curfew-regulations-relaxed-to-restore-normalcy-in-civilian-life/ (not archivable, date of press release: 18 April)

Quote: "Secretaries to Ministries and heads of Department and other organizations should meet from April 22nd to plan out future arrangements. The heads of state entities in the district of Colombo are advised to convene meetings of their deputies and other high ranking officers on April 22, 23 and 24 to decide the number of staff to be called for work, categories of employees to be called and the nature of their responsibilities." Link: https://www.president.gov.lk/state-bodies-told-how-to-resume-work-once-curfew-relaxed/

Sri Lanka reimposes national curfew after spike in new cases, curfew in place until Monday; Sri Lanka lifts nationwide curfew, but curfew remains in place in Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara, Puttalam, Kandy, Kegalle and Ampara; https://apnews.com/67f320e4e58112675f4880e979a35a2b (not archivable); https://abcnews.go.com/Health/wireStory/asia-today-sri-lanka-reimposes-curfew-12-cases-70343358

https://www.hlb.global/sri-lanka-tax-and-financial-measures-associated-with-covid-19/ The Central Bank of Sri Lanka has introduced a wide range of fiscal and financial concessions for business activities including self – employment businesses and individuals who have been affected by COVID – 19. Eligible Businesses / Sectors Tourism, direct and indirect export-related businesses including apparel, IT, tea, spices, plantation and related logistic suppliers. Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) engaged in business sectors such as manufacturing, services, agriculture (including processing), construction, value addition and trading businesses including authorised domestic pharmaceutical suppliers with turnover below Rs. 1 bn. Self-employment businesses and individuals who have lost their jobs or income. Foreign currency earners (individuals and corporates) who have to repay loans in foreign currency. However, this facility is not applicable for import facilities other than pharmaceutical drugs, medical equipment, food, fertilizer and essential raw materials and machinery and equipment. Concessions for Existing Performing Loans A six-month debt moratorium on the leasing rentals of all three-wheelers, school vans, lorries, small goods transport vehicles and buses and related assets such as motor bikes and taxies operated by the self-employed / owners. A debt moratorium until 30.05.2020 on personal loans granted to all private sector nonexecutive employees. A three-month debt moratorium for all personal loans and leasing where the granted amount is less than Rs. 1 million. A six-month debt moratorium for affected industries in small & medium enterprises, tourism, apparel, plantation, IT and related logistic service providers. A six-month debt moratorium for all other eligible businesses/sectors. Permanent Overdraft facilities falling due for settlement or maturing or are reviewed during the period up to 25.03.2020 shall be extended up to 30.09.2020 at 13% interest rate. Eligible trade finance facilities falling due for settlement or maturing or were under review during the period up to 25.03.2020 shall be extended up to 30.09.2020. Pawing facilities falling due for settlement or maturing during the period up to 25.03.2020 shall be extended up to 30.09.2020. Concessions for Existing Non – Performing Loans The penal interest charged up to 25.03.2020 shall be waived off by the concerned financial institutions. Rescheduling of loans and advances according to the amount of repayments. Suspension of recovery actions. Working Capital and Investment Loans Financial institutions may grant an additional loan or a new loan facility in Rupees for working capital or investment purposes subject to the following conditions; Working Capital Loans Eligibility – Performing and non performing borrowers Limit for banks – Rs. 25 million or 2 months working capital requirement whichever is higher Limit for other financial institutions – Rs. 10 million or 2 months working capital requirement whichever is higher Repayment period – 02 Years Interest rate for Licensed banks – 4% Interest rate for other financial institutions – 7% Moratorium period – 25.03.2020 to 30.09.2020 Investment loans Eligibility – Performing borrowers Limit for banks – Rs. 300 million per bank per borrower to expand business activities. Repayment period – 05 Years Interest rate for Licensed banks – Maximum of AWPLR plus 1.5% Moratorium period – 25.03.2020 to 30.09.2020 Discontinuation of Charges Financial institutions shall discontinue charging for cheque returns, stop payments, late payment fee on all credit cards and other credit facilities during the period up to 30.09.2020. Management of exchange rates The Government has taken the following measures to improve the exchange rates by restricting the outward remittances and stimulating the inward remittances. Restrictions on outward remittances Making payments through Outward Investment Accounts (OIA) for the purpose of making investments overseas by persons resident in Sri Lanka under general permission has been suspended for a period of three months from 02nd April 2020, excluding the following: Investments to be financed out of a foreign currency loan obtained by the inverter from a person outside Sri Lanka or Investments to be made to fulfill the regulatory requirement in that country provided that, the Head of Department of Foreign Exchange is satisfied with the fulfilment of such requirement; Outward remittances on transactions through Business Foreign Currency Accounts (BFCA) or Personal Foreign Currency Accounts (PFCA) held by persons resident in Sri Lanka has been suspended other than the remittances on current transactions for a period of three months 02nd April 202 Annual migration allowance of USD 30,000 for emigrants through Capital Transactions Rupee Accounts has been suspended for a period of three months from 02nd April 2020 for emigrants who have already claimed the initial allowance of USD 100,000. The initial migration allowance of USD 100,000 for the emigrants, has been restricted up to a maximum of USD 30,000 for a period of three months from 02nd April 202 Concessions for inward remittances A Special Deposit Account (SDA) has been introduced to support the national effort to manage the challenges faced due to COVID-19 outbreak. Features of the SDA Eligible Persons: Sri Lankan individuals resident in or outside Sri Lanka Dual Citizens Citizens of other States with Sri Lankan origin Non-nationals resident in or outside Sri Lanka Funds, corporate bodies, associations incorporated/registered outside Sri Lanka Any other well-wishers Minimum Deposit: No prescribed limit Type of Deposit: Fixed deposits only Minimum Tenure: Six months SDAs can be opened: with an Authorized Dealer in Sri Lanka only with inward remittances through banking system during the six months period from 08th April, 2020. by transferring funds received during the above mentioned period to an Inward Investment Account (IIA) or an account in the Offshore Banking Unit (OBU). either in foreign currency or Sri Lanka Rupees. as a joint account. Acceptable foreign currencies United States Dollars (USD), Euro, Sterling Pound, Australian Dollars, Singapore Dollars, Swedish Kroner, Swiss Franc, Canadian Dollars, Hong Kong Dollars, Japanese Yen, Danish Kroner, Norwegian Kroner, Chinese Renminbi and New Zealand Dollars. Interest Rate: Higher interest paid at maturity 6 months deposits – 1 percentage point per annum above the normal rate 12 months deposits – 2 percentage points per annum above the normal rate Repatriation of Funds: freely convertible and remittable outside Sri Lanka upon maturity Exemption: Any procedural requirements specified in the Foreign Exchange Regulations are not applicable

Traveling between districts continues to be strictly limited only to official and other essential purposes.; https://www.president.gov.lk/curfew-regulations-relaxed-to-restore-normalcy-in-civilian-life/ (not archivable)

Resumption of civilian life and state and private sector activities will begin from May 11 while the curfew is in force in high risk districts of Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara and Puttalam, the President’s Media Division (PMD) said in a statement issued today. In order to ensure return to normalcy in civilian life and to revive the economy including continuous provision of essential services in these districts, both public and private sector entities should resume their work from Monday, 11th May. Source 1: https://www.arabnews.com/node/1672851/world Source 2: http://www.colombopage.com/archive_20A/May01_1588349980CH.php

Resumption of civilian life and state and private sector activities will begin from May 11 while the curfew is in force in high risk districts of Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara and Puttalam, the President’s Media Division (PMD) said in a statement issued today. In order to ensure return to normalcy in civilian life and to revive the economy including continuous provision of essential services in these districts, both public and private sector entities should resume their work from Monday, 11th May. Source 1: https://www.arabnews.com/node/1672851/world Source 2: http://www.colombopage.com/archive_20A/May01_1588349980CH.php

Resumption of civilian life and state and private sector activities will begin from May 11 while the curfew is in force in high risk districts of Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara and Puttalam, the President’s Media Division (PMD) said in a statement issued today. In order to ensure return to normalcy in civilian life and to revive the economy including continuous provision of essential services in these districts, both public and private sector entities should resume their work from Monday, 11th May. Source 1: https://www.arabnews.com/node/1672851/world Source 2: http://www.colombopage.com/archive_20A/May01_1588349980CH.php

Resumption of civilian life and state and private sector activities will begin from May 11 while the curfew is in force in high risk districts of Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara and Puttalam, the President’s Media Division (PMD) said in a statement issued today. In order to ensure return to normalcy in civilian life and to revive the economy including continuous provision of essential services in these districts, both public and private sector entities should resume their work from Monday, 11th May. Source 1: https://www.arabnews.com/node/1672851/world Source 2: http://www.colombopage.com/archive_20A/May01_1588349980CH.php

Resumption of civilian life and state and private sector activities will begin from May 11 while the curfew is in force in high risk districts of Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara and Puttalam, the President’s Media Division (PMD) said in a statement issued today. In order to ensure return to normalcy in civilian life and to revive the economy including continuous provision of essential services in these districts, both public and private sector entities should resume their work from Monday, 11th May. Source 1: https://www.arabnews.com/node/1672851/world Source 2: http://www.colombopage.com/archive_20A/May01_1588349980CH.php

Resumption of civilian life and state and private sector activities will begin from May 11 while the curfew is in force in high risk districts of Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara and Puttalam, the President’s Media Division (PMD) said in a statement issued today. In order to ensure return to normalcy in civilian life and to revive the economy including continuous provision of essential services in these districts, both public and private sector entities should resume their work from Monday, 11th May. Source 1: https://www.arabnews.com/node/1672851/world Source 2: http://www.colombopage.com/archive_20A/May01_1588349980CH.php

Resumption of civilian life and state and private sector activities will begin from May 11 while the curfew is in force in high risk districts of Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara and Puttalam, the President’s Media Division (PMD) said in a statement issued today. In order to ensure return to normalcy in civilian life and to revive the economy including continuous provision of essential services in these districts, both public and private sector entities should resume their work from Monday, 11th May. Source 1: https://www.arabnews.com/node/1672851/world Source 2: http://www.colombopage.com/archive_20A/May01_1588349980CH.php

http://www.epid.gov.lk/web/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=225&Itemid=518&lang=en

Source 1: https://www.indepthnews.net/index.php/opinion/3518-sri-lanka-has-been-successful-in-countering-covid-19 Source 2: https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-coronavirus-contact-tracing-gaps-plugged-as-incubation-of-sars-cov-2-suspected-to-top-20-days-64717/

https://www.newsfirst.lk/2020/04/18/intelligence-units-to-trace-contacts-of-covid-19-patients/ https://www.indepthnews.net/index.php/opinion/3518-sri-lanka-has-been-successful-in-countering-covid-19 https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-coronavirus-contact-tracing-gaps-plugged-as-incubation-of-sars-cov-2-suspected-to-top-20-days-64717/

The Minister of Transport Services and Power and Energy Mahinda Amaraweera said permission will be granted for trains and buses to only transport passengers according to the number of seats, in the districts where the curfew has been lifted. Link: http://www.colombopage.com/archive_20A/May13_1589312018CH.php http://www.dailynews.lk/2020/05/05/local/217944/2300-sltb-buses-operation June 2 - The Transport Services Management Ministry today (02) decided to operate the public transport services including trains and buses in the country normally with effect from Monday (June 08) considering the public behavior over the next few days as well as the advice given by the Health Units on COVID-19 Epidemic. Link: http://www.colombopage.com/archive_20A/Jun02_1591118931CH.php

Resumption of civilian life and state and private sector activities will begin from May 11 while the curfew is in force in high risk districts of Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara and Puttalam, the President’s Media Division (PMD) said in a statement issued today. In order to ensure return to normalcy in civilian life and to revive the economy including continuous provision of essential services in these districts, both public and private sector entities should resume their work from Monday, 11th May. Source 1: https://www.arabnews.com/node/1672851/world Source 2: http://www.colombopage.com/archive_20A/May01_1588349980CH.php

Resumption of civilian life and state and private sector activities will begin from May 11 while the curfew is in force in high risk districts of Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara and Puttalam, the President’s Media Division (PMD) said in a statement issued today. In order to ensure return to normalcy in civilian life and to revive the economy including continuous provision of essential services in these districts, both public and private sector entities should resume their work from Monday, 11th May. Source 1: https://www.arabnews.com/node/1672851/world Source 2: http://www.colombopage.com/archive_20A/May01_1588349980CH.php

MONETARY AND MACRO-FINANCIAL The Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) has reduced monetary policy rates by 100 basis points since March. The required reserve ratio on domestic currency deposits of commercial banks has been lowered by one percentage point, the liquidity coverage ratio and net stable funding ratios have been reduced to 90 percent and the rate at which CBSL grants advances to commercial banks has been lowered by 500 basis points. Commercial banks cannot declare dividends, share buy backs or increase payments to directors until end-2020. The President announced a debt repayment moratorium, which includes a six month moratorium on bank loans for the tourism, garment, plantation and IT sectors, and small & medium industries, with reduced rate working capital loans and investment-purpose loans for these sectors. There will also be a three-month moratorium on small-value personal banking and leasing loans. The interest rate on credit cards will be capped, for transactions up to a certain amount, with a reduction in the minimum monthly repayment. Financial institutions are also requested to reschedule non-performing loans. Lower capital conservation buffer requirements and a relaxation of loan classification rules have been announced. In addition, state-owned institutions will invest in treasury securities to stabilize the money market rate at 7 percent. EXCHANGE RATE AND BALANCE OF PAYMENTS The Sri Lankan authorities have introduced measures for a period of three months, aimed at restricting capital outflows, through suspension of outward investment payments, and a prohibition on commercial banks purchasing Sri Lankan sovereign bonds. There are also some current account restrictions, suspending imports of non-essential goods except raw materials, pharmaceutical products and fuel, as well as prohibiting commercial banks facilitating imports of vehicles and non-essential goods, and suspension of outward remittances. Inward remittances will be exempted from certain regulations and taxes. https://www.imf.org/en/Topics/imf-and-covid19/Policy-Responses-to-COVID-19

http://www.epid.gov.lk/web/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=225&Itemid=518&lang=en

Source 1: https://www.indepthnews.net/index.php/opinion/3518-sri-lanka-has-been-successful-in-countering-covid-19 Source 2: https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-coronavirus-contact-tracing-gaps-plugged-as-incubation-of-sars-cov-2-suspected-to-top-20-days-64717/

https://www.newsfirst.lk/2020/04/18/intelligence-units-to-trace-contacts-of-covid-19-patients/ https://www.indepthnews.net/index.php/opinion/3518-sri-lanka-has-been-successful-in-countering-covid-19 https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-coronavirus-contact-tracing-gaps-plugged-as-incubation-of-sars-cov-2-suspected-to-top-20-days-64717/

On May 26 hotels and restaurants in Sri Lanka reopened, following a two-month coronavirus lockdown and island-wide curfew. On May 28 the Ministry of Health published a set of regulations for each type of commercial activity. Link: http://www.health.gov.lk/moh_final/english/article_read_more.php?id=874 https://www.ttgasia.com/2020/05/27/sri-lanka-restarts-economic-engine/ https://economynext.com/sri-lankas-new-normal-explained-70428/ http://www.health.gov.lk/moh_final/english/public/elfinder/files/feturesArtical/2020/46/english/35.Clothing%20shops.pdf http://www.health.gov.lk/moh_final/english/public/elfinder/files/feturesArtical/2020/46/english/33.Restaurants.pdf http://www.health.gov.lk/moh_final/english/public/elfinder/files/feturesArtical/2020/46/english/32.Groceries%20%20Small%20boutiques.pdf http://www.health.gov.lk/moh_final/english/public/elfinder/files/feturesArtical/2020/46/english/12.CommunicationsElectronic%20Shops.pdf

On May 26, curfew and lockdown measures were relaxed. On May 27-28 the Ministry of Health published regulation regarding gatherings stating that social gatherings (Social/ political/cultural gatherings/functions/ exhibitions/ cinemas/ fairs) of more than 10 people not permitted until further notice Government should declare the restrictions until further notice on relaxing this. Link: https://www.republicworld.com/world-news/rest-of-the-world-news/sri-lanka-selective-lockdown-restrictions-reimposed.html http://dailynews.lk/2020/05/26/local/219372/%E2%80%98strictly-follow-health-guidelines-gatherings%E2%80%99 http://www.dailynews.lk/2020/05/27/local/219496/fresh-guidelines-issued-%E2%80%98new-normal%E2%80%99 MOH Links: http://www.health.gov.lk/moh_final/english/public/elfinder/files/feturesArtical/2020/46/Advocacy%20brief_Final_28052020-compressed.pdf http://www.health.gov.lk/moh_final/english/public/elfinder/files/feturesArtical/2020/46/Annexure%20II_Final_28052020_compressed.pdf

Following the end of strict lockdown restrictions in place over the Eid al-Fitr holiday period on Tuesday, May 26, Sri Lankan authorities have announced that curfew measures and domestic travel restrictions will be eased. Inter-provincial and inter-district travel will once more be permitted, except in Colombo and Gampaha, where travel will still be restricted. Individuals must continue to socially distance and wear face masks in public. Those who violate the guidelines will face fines or arrest. Link: https://www.garda.com/crisis24/news-alerts/345906/sri-lanka-authorities-ease-curfew-measures-and-domestic-travel-restrictions-from-may-26-update-17 https://economynext.com/inter-district-public-transport-services-recommence-today-excluding-colombo-and-gampaha-70371/

Schools continue closed. On June 9th, the Minister of Education announced that all government schools will reopen from June 29 in four stages. Link: https://www.lankabusinessonline.com/no-school-no-meals-sri-lankas-battle-against-malnutrition-amidst-covid/ http://www.colombopage.com/archive_20A/Jun09_1591724490CH.php

Resumption of civilian life and state and private sector activities will begin from May 11 while the curfew is in force in high risk districts of Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara and Puttalam, the President’s Media Division (PMD) said in a statement issued today. In order to ensure return to normalcy in civilian life and to revive the economy including continuous provision of essential services in these districts, both public and private sector entities should resume their work from Monday, 11th May. Source 1: https://www.arabnews.com/node/1672851/world Source 2: http://www.colombopage.com/archive_20A/May01_1588349980CH.php

Sri Lankan authorities said that the a curfew in capital Colombo and the outskirts of Gampaha, which was imposed on March 24, to prevent the spread of COVID-19, will be relaxed on May 26 A statement from the President's Office said that curfew will now be effective in all districts of the country including Colombo for a shorter period of time daily, from 10 pm to 4 am, as there had been no new patients detected among the public within the past 2 weeks. The spread of the virus had been contained within one cluster and at the quarantine centers only. Link: http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2020-06/08/c_139124137.htm https://www.wionews.com/sri-lanka/sri-lanka-to-ease-coronavirus-restrictions-from-may-26-300643

Sri Lanka has announced it is reopening its borders to foreign tourists from August 1. The country has said it will welcome tourists from all countries but has put strict regulations in place. The Telegraph reports that Sri Lanka’s tourism ministry says visitors must carry a certificate issued less than 72 hours before their trip stating that they are coronavirus-free and travelers will also be required to take a free test on arrival, with a further test taken four to five days later. Link: https://www.standard.co.uk/lifestyle/travel/travel-news/when-can-i-travel-to-sri-lanka-a4464926.html https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/news/sri-lanka-tourist-restrictions-four-covid-tests/

No measure to date. Link: https://www.imf.org/en/Topics/imf-and-covid19/Policy-Responses-to-COVID-19

No new measure. Note for reviewers: coding from June 1 backwards is incorrect, from my understanding. Link: https://www.imf.org/en/Topics/imf-and-covid19/Policy-Responses-to-COVID-19

The Epidemiology Unit of the Ministry of Health continues publishing daily situation reports on the outbreak. Link: http://www.epid.gov.lk/web/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=225&Itemid=487&lang=en

The approach to testing did not follow the dictum of ‘test, test, test’. “Testing is being conducted on a targeted algorithm and policy and not just on a whim at every junction,”Director General of Health Services Dr Anil Jasinghe is reported as saying. “Those who are tested are in the highly-vulnerable group like those in Intensive Care Units (ICUs), those having Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI), those whom the clinicians want tested, those in quarantine centres and other vulnerable groups such as those living in congested areas, substance abusers, municipal workers, trishaw drivers, fish vendors etc.” Link: http://www.dailymirror.lk/opinion/Sri-Lankas-Covid-19-response-and-the-challenge-ahead/172-189816

Contact tracing efforts are in place. May 25 - Sri Lanka has made strong progress in containing the spread of Coronavirus and has been aggressively contact tracing and is only behind only a few countries such Vietnam, which appears to be the global leader in containing Covid-19. May 29 - Contact tracing applied to navy personeel after 1 positive case: Lt. Commander Sooriyabandara said after one person from the Gaffor Building tested positive for COVID-19 on Thursday all personnel detected via contact tracing were moved into immediate quarantine. Link: https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-curfews-relaxed-amid-progress-in-coronavirus-battle-foreign-returnee-dies-70329/ https://www.newsfirst.lk/2020/05/29/navy-personnel-at-gaffor-building-never-had-contact-with-outsiders-sri-lanka-navy/ http://www.dailymirror.lk/opinion/Sri-Lankas-Covid-19-response-and-the-challenge-ahead/172-189816

Sri Lanka's Transport Ministry announced on June 9 had resumed public transport services in capital Colombo and the outskirts of Gampaha which had remained forbidden until now after over two months of no reported public transmission of COVID-19. Public transport in other districts was already allowed. The measure has been in place since June 8. Link: http://www.colombopage.com/archive_20A/Jun07_1591547671CH.php https://menafn.com/1100285729/Sri-Lanka-Inter-district-public-transport-to-resume-tomorrow https://www.outlookindia.com/newsscroll/sri-lanka-resumes-public-transport-in-capital/1860308

All trains except for a few will operate on a regular schedule from June 8, Sri Lanka Railways department announced. Accordingly, all office trains, long-distance services, night mail trains, intercity express trains, except few intercity express trains including Denuwara Manike from Colombo Fort to Badulla, Air-conditioned intercity express from Mount Lavinia to Kankesanthurai and Pulathisi express from Colombo to Polonnaruwa, will operate as before. The Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Transport Services Management have instructed that passengers should be transported according to the number of seats on the train and commuters will not be allowed to overcrowd or stand inside trains, therefore the public is advised to use trains only for essential travel. Link: http://www.sundayobserver.lk/2020/06/07/news/trains-track-tomorrow

Schools continue closed. On June 9th, the Minister of Education announced that all government schools will reopen from June 29 in four stages. Link: https://www.lankabusinessonline.com/no-school-no-meals-sri-lankas-battle-against-malnutrition-amidst-covid/ http://www.colombopage.com/archive_20A/Jun09_1591724490CH.php

State institutions and big businesses have been opened, with up to one-third of the workforce called back to work. The government had already allowed major exporting businesses to resume production about two weeks ago. https://www.wsws.org/en/articles/2020/05/13/slco-m13.html

Resumption of civilian life and state and private sector activities will begin from May 11 while the curfew is in force in high risk districts of Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara and Puttalam, the President’s Media Division (PMD) said in a statement issued today. In order to ensure return to normalcy in civilian life and to revive the economy including continuous provision of essential services in these districts, both public and private sector entities should resume their work from Monday, 11th May. Source 1: https://www.arabnews.com/node/1672851/world Source 2: http://www.colombopage.com/archive_20A/May01_1588349980CH.php

Sri Lanka's Transport Ministry announced on June 9 had resumed public transport services in capital Colombo and the outskirts of Gampaha which had remained forbidden until now after over two months of no reported public transmission of COVID-19. Public transport in other districts was already allowed. The measure has been in place since June 8. Link: http://www.colombopage.com/archive_20A/Jun07_1591547671CH.php https://menafn.com/1100285729/Sri-Lanka-Inter-district-public-transport-to-resume-tomorrow https://www.outlookindia.com/newsscroll/sri-lanka-resumes-public-transport-in-capital/1860308

According to a statement from the President's Media Division, a nationwide curfew will be imposed on May 31, June 4 and June 5 to avoid people from leaving their homes unnecessarily. Sri Lanka will commemorate a holiday on June 5 in view of the Poson Full Moon day, an important event in the Buddhist calendar. but due to the COVID-19 pandemic this year, all devotees have been urged to stay at home and avoid visiting the temples. The statement said from June 1 to June 3, curfew will be imposed in all districts of the country from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. local time while from June 6 onwards, curfew will be imposed from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. local time daily until further notice.. http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2020-05/28/c_139096679.htm

All trains except for a few will operate on a regular schedule from June 8, Sri Lanka Railways department announced. Accordingly, all office trains, long-distance services, night mail trains, intercity express trains, except few intercity express trains including Denuwara Manike from Colombo Fort to Badulla, Air-conditioned intercity express from Mount Lavinia to Kankesanthurai and Pulathisi express from Colombo to Polonnaruwa, will operate as before. The Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Transport Services Management have instructed that passengers should be transported according to the number of seats on the train and commuters will not be allowed to overcrowd or stand inside trains, therefore the public is advised to use trains only for essential travel. Link: http://www.sundayobserver.lk/2020/06/07/news/trains-track-tomorrow

Government plans to resume operation of international airports from August 1. https://www.wionews.com/sri-lanka/sri-lanka-further-relaxes-covid-19-curfew-305660

MONETARY AND MACRO-FINANCIAL The Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) has reduced monetary policy rates by 100 basis points since March. The required reserve ratio on domestic currency deposits of commercial banks has been lowered by one percentage point, the liquidity coverage ratio and net stable funding ratios have been reduced to 90 percent and the rate at which CBSL grants advances to commercial banks has been lowered by 500 basis points. Commercial banks cannot declare dividends, share buy backs or increase payments to directors until end-2020. The President announced a debt repayment moratorium, which includes a six month moratorium on bank loans for the tourism, garment, plantation and IT sectors, and small & medium industries, with reduced rate working capital loans and investment-purpose loans for these sectors. There will also be a three-month moratorium on small-value personal banking and leasing loans. The interest rate on credit cards will be capped, for transactions up to a certain amount, with a reduction in the minimum monthly repayment. Financial institutions are also requested to reschedule non-performing loans. Lower capital conservation buffer requirements and a relaxation of loan classification rules have been announced. In addition, state-owned institutions will invest in treasury securities to stabilize the money market rate at 7 percent. http://archive.fo/nKJdw

http://www.epid.gov.lk/web/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=225&Itemid=518&lang=en

Source 1: https://www.indepthnews.net/index.php/opinion/3518-sri-lanka-has-been-successful-in-countering-covid-19 Source 2: https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-coronavirus-contact-tracing-gaps-plugged-as-incubation-of-sars-cov-2-suspected-to-top-20-days-64717/

https://www.newsfirst.lk/2020/04/18/intelligence-units-to-trace-contacts-of-covid-19-patients/ https://www.indepthnews.net/index.php/opinion/3518-sri-lanka-has-been-successful-in-countering-covid-19 https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-coronavirus-contact-tracing-gaps-plugged-as-incubation-of-sars-cov-2-suspected-to-top-20-days-64717/

Sri Lanka’s government on Sunday lifted a curfew imposed to contain the spreading of the coronavirus. http://archive.fo/w0GQP

cipals, teachers and other staff in Sri Lanka returned to schools on Monday after three months of lockdown imposed in the country to contain the spread of the coronavirus. Education Minister Dullas Alahapperuma said the students will return to schools next week under four phases. http://archive.fo/jKOMa

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/south-asia/schools-to-reopen-in-sri-lanka-from-monday-after-over-3-month-long-covid-19-lockdown/articleshow/76800491.cms Sri Lanka begins phased opening of schools by grade.

After a spike in cases, schools close again from 13 to 17 of July http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2020-07/12/c_139207466.htm

Schools closure extended till July 24. All Schools will be open for Grade 11, 12 & 13 on July 27. Other grades will be open after the election and date will be on August 10. A crucial discussion over schools reopening, held on July 18 with the participation of Education Minister. Sri Lanka Education Ministry decided to reopen schools from July 27 and August 10 under two stages. Schools re-opening dates, Grade 5 scholarship exams date, A/L Exam dates to announce at the meeting. Meanwhile Daily Mirror reports that schools to remain closed till General Election on August 5. According to the newspaper, Health Ministry had recommended the Education Ministry to keep schools closed at least till August 5. Meanwhile some sources say schools will reopen on July 20. Final decision will be taken today at the meeting. July 13, Schools closed as a precautionary measure. http://archive.fo/IDOMZ

Sri Lanka plans to reopen its shores to foreign visitors in August after several months of an international travel ban due to the coronavirus pandemic. Airports in Sri Lanka have been closed and visas and electronic travel authorizations (ETAs) have been suspended since April as the country, like many others, has closed itself off from the rest of the world. As the number of cases of COVID-19 around the world fall and summer approaches, Sri Lanka has announced a plan to slowly lift travel restrictions. http://archive.fo/QECk5

According to the Ministry of Education, Grade 11, 12 and 13 of all government schools in Sri Lanka are opened as of 27 July, 2020, and will be open from 7:30-15:30. All other grades in government schools will be opened on 10 August. See the Ministry of Education website, archived: http://archive.vn/3F798 The Lanka Education site reiterates the information above, but also states that school for certain grades will not be daily, or for five days a week. However, the information is a bit difficult to understand. See Lanka Education, archived: http://archive.vn/qqFFz

On 28 July, 2020, the Ministry of Education announced that Grade 1 and 2 classes as well as all pre-schools in the country that were closed since March will re-open on 10 August. See Lanka Education, archived: https://www.lankaeducation.com/sri-lanka-pre-schools-to-be-brought-under-a-ministry/

On 30 July, 2020, the state-owned power supplier, Ceylon Electricity Board, announced that it would provide Rs.3 billion (approximately US$16,162,223) relief to electricity consumers for the months of March, April and May due to the imposed curfew in response to the pandemic. See the news, archived: http://archive.vn/uFU1V

The Sri Lanka Ministry of Education has announced that all government schools which have been given an extended vacation due to the Coronavirus pandemic will resume activity for all grades from August 10. For schools with more than 200 children, grades will return on a staggered timetable. See the news on Lanka Education, archived: http://archive.vn/27ehh It has been decided to bring students back to school based on the number of students in the schools. All grades will begin on August 10 for schools with less than 200 students.

The Sri Lanka University Grant Commission (UGC) has decided to reopen universities from 17 August for all years. See the information online at Lanka Education, archived: http://archive.vn/e1IgT