Intro: BLOOMY_SL_ASJ_43-copy

A vendor waits for customers at Galle Face Green in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka has to repay about $2 billion in foreign debts before the end of 2021. The shortage of foreign currency caused by a pandemic recession has hindered the ability of the government to import goods. Prices for essential items, including food and cooking gas, have soared. The government has asked India for a loan for petrol and diesel. Some analysts say that Sri Lanka may be forced to seek a bailout.

A vendor waits for customers at Galle Face Green in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka has to repay about $2 billion in foreign debts before the end of 2021. The shortage of foreign currency caused by a pandemic recession has hindered the ability of the government to import goods. Prices for essential items, including food and cooking gas, have soared. The government has asked India for a loan for petrol and diesel. Some analysts say that Sri Lanka may be forced to seek a bailout.