The Cabinet of Ministers granted approval to expedite the finalisation of a draft bill to establish the Sri Lanka Institute of Food Science and Technology (SLIFST) as a statutory body through an Act of Parliament.

Originally formed in 2004 as a voluntary body of food technologists and scientists, SLIFST is currently registered as a company limited by guarantee. 

Accordingly, the proposed legislation will provide state sponsorship and elevate the Institute’s standing at both national and international levels.

The draft bill, previously approved in principle in June 2024, is yet to be tabled in Parliament. The latest decision authorises the completion of the Bill with amendments proposed by the Attorney General (AG).