Following the commencement of Parliament sittings at 1.30 pm today, the President is scheduled to deliver the second reading of the Appropriation Bill for the year 2027. Ahead of presenting the budget to Parliament, the President reviewed the final document containing the relevant proposals at the Presidential Secretariat.

Key Points
  • Estimated government expenditure for the 2027 budget exceeds Rs. 4,982 billion
  • This year's expenditure reflects an increase of Rs. 558 billion compared to 2026
  • The budget debate will take place over 26 days from today until December 14

Expectations of relief

The public has expressed high hopes that relief measures will be provided through this budget. In particular, reports suggest that public sector employees are set to receive several concessions, including salary increments. Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning Anil Jayantha also stated that there is reason to hope appropriate relief will be granted to sectors deserving of assistance.

Debate and voting schedule

The second reading debate on the Appropriation Bill, which was presented for its first reading on October 7, will proceed over seven days until November 20. The vote on the second reading is scheduled to be held at 6.00 pm on that day.

Subsequently, the Committee Stage debate, also known as the third reading debate, will be held over 19 days starting November 21, including four Saturdays.

What comes next?

The budget process is set to conclude following the final vote on the third reading, scheduled for 6.00 pm on December 14.

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