Govt’s role is not to run businesses, says Industries Minister

Sri Lanka’s Minister of Industries, Sunil Handunneththi, has underscored that the government’s primary responsibility is to facilitate business activities rather than directly engaging in commercial operations.

Speaking at a recent public event, Minister Handunneththi rejected calls for increased government involvement in running enterprises, describing such a model as impractical in today’s economic environment.

He emphasised that the government’s key functions should focus on creating a supportive business climate, including formulating tax policies, providing technical and financial assistance, and resolving issues faced by the private sector.