Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development and the Industrial Development Board (IDB) launched the first phase of the Industry Revival Facilitation Programme (IRFP), to assist industries affected by the Ditwah cyclone that struck Sri Lanka in late November 2025 on March 10, under the patronage of Deputy Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, Chathuranga Abeysinghe.
The IRFP initiative, launched in December 2025 as a public–private partnership, brought together several leading private sector organisations to support 43 industries impacted by the disaster. In recognition of their timely and meaningful contribution during this challenging period, the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development honoured these organisations for their support.
Special appreciation was also extended to several individuals, who voluntarily contributed their expertise in establishing the Industry Disaster Support Centre (IDSC). Through their efforts, a centralized database and digital data collection system was developed to record and assess industries affected by the Ditwah cyclone.
According to preliminary assessments, the total economic loss to the manufacturing sector as a result of the disaster is estimated at Rs. 33.96 billion. The largest share of the damage has been recorded in raw materials and inventory losses, amounting to approximately Rs. 10.2 billion, while significant losses have also been reported in revenue disruptions and damage to machinery and equipment.
Flooding of factories led to machinery becoming inoperable, interruptions to production processes, and disruptions across supply chains, which were identified as key challenges faced by affected industries. Besides the IRFP initiative, the Ministry is also preparing to launch the Industry Development Foster Programme (IDFP), aimed at supporting the long-term recovery and development of the industries identified during the initial assessments.
The event was attended by the Secretary to the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, Thilaka Jayasundera, Additional Secretary Anoja Herath and representatives from leading private sector organisations.
Source : Daily News
