Namal blames Govt for BOI apparel factory closure

Colombo, May 22 (Daily Mirror) - Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) Parliamentarian Namal Rajapaksa criticized the government over the recent closure of an international apparel factory operating under the Board of Investment (BOI), citing it as yet another example of the administration’s failure to maintain a stable and supportive business environment. 

Taking to X, Rajapaksa said the factory’s closure reflects growing discontent among investors, both local and foreign, due to rising operational challenges. 

“High taxes, soaring energy costs, the removal of the SVAT system — which once facilitated faster VAT refunds for exporters — policy inconsistency, and ongoing trade union disruptions have severely damaged investor confidence,” he stated.

He also questioned the credibility of the National People's Power (NPP) government’s promises to boost foreign direct investment. 

“Despite grand pledges, the government has not only failed to attract new investors but is now struggling to retain long-standing ones,” Rajapaksa added.