Sri Lanka has announced the creation of a National AI Fund with an initial investment of Rs 100 million (US$ 333,000) to foster local innovation and contribute significantly to the country’s ambition of building a US$ 15 billion digital economy by 2030.
The initiative is part of a strategy to achieve fivefold growth in the digital economy over the next five years, with artificial intelligence expected to generate between US$ 1.5 to US$ 1.8 billion—representing 10–12% of the total digital economy—according to Dr. Mothilal de Silva, Chairman of Sri Lanka Telecom (SLT). He spoke at the launch of Sri Lanka’s first AI Expo & Conference 2025 in Colombo, organized in partnership with the Ministry of Digital Economy and Huawei.
Dr. de Silva highlighted SLT-Mobitel’s transformation from a traditional telecom provider into a technology enabler, leveraging nationwide fiber networks, a 5G-ready mobile network, AI-upgradable data centers, and cloud solutions to support real-time AI applications and scalable innovation. “The question is not whether AI will transform the world, but if Sri Lanka will lead or follow,” he said.
The AI Expo, set for September 29–30, will host international experts from major technology companies and showcase live AI applications in healthcare, education, and agriculture. To broaden access, mini expos will be held in Jaffna, Anuradhapura, Galle, and Kandy.
Dr. de Silva urged stronger collaboration between government, the private sector, and academia to position Sri Lanka as an innovative and responsible AI leader.
Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya, Chief Advisor to the President on Digital Economy, said a draft national AI policy is underway, with an advisory committee focusing on strategy, regulation, infrastructure, citizen rights, and safeguards. He emphasized that AI, when applied responsibly with inclusion at its core, can accelerate digital transformation and enhance public service delivery.
