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The rupee, LKR, is the official unit of currency of Sri Lanka. The currency is subdivided into 100 cents. The currency is unique in that it is the only currency that is printed vertically on the back. Like most currencies, the Central Bank of Sri Lanka issues the Sri Lankan rupee.

Travel Notes:

Since most shopkeepers in Sri Lanka do not have change
   with them, it is worthwhile to break larger notes into the
   smaller coins.

The maximum local currency import and export is 1000
   rupees. The import of Indian and Pakistani currency is
   restricted. All other foreign currency imports are allowed,
   however amounts over 5000 US Dollars must be declared.

Sovereign Ratings for Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is not rated.

What does it look like?

Political Structure Sri Lanka's government is a republic. It consists of three branches: the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. The president, who is considered both the head of government and the chief of state, heads the executive branch. The cabinet is appointed by the president with the consent of the prime minister, who is also appointed by the president. The president is elected by popular vote for a six-year term. The legislative branch is a unicameral body that consists of the Parliament. The Parliament holds 225 seats, where its members are elected by popular vote on the basis of a proportional representation, to serve 6-year terms. The judicial branch consists of the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeals. The president appoints the judges for both courts.

Prominent Figures The current president of Sri Lanka is Mahinda Rajapaksa. The prime minister is Ratnasiri Wickremanayake.

Key Economic Factors

Trade: Sri Lanka's economy is very reliant on domestic trade. Making up about 21% of GDP, the largest single sector is wholesale and retail trade. Accounting for about 38% of total exports, those to the United States are Sri Lanka's most important market. While leading import suppliers to Sri Lanka include India and Japan, other chief contributors are Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, and South Korea.

Agriculture: Although the significance of the agricultural sector has declined somewhat, it is still an important portion of Sri Lanka GDP as it accounts for about one-fifth of national output and is the largest employer, with about one-third of the workforce. It's also contains an indirect significance because of the many connections between agriculture, manufacturing, and services.