Digitalising the economy offers benefits including increased transparency, improved access and reduced transaction costs. Verité has done research on two e-governance tools: e-signatures and e-procurement. E-signatures and electronic documents play an important role in improving the competitiveness of Sri Lankan exports. The use of e-document processing platforms for trade will significantly reduce processing times at the border. Currently, the benefit of this technology is being hobbled by the non-acceptance of e-signatures, despite the Electronic Transaction Act being passed over a decade ago. Public procurement is another system that would greatly benefit businesses and the public if digitalised. Efficient and accountable public procurement enables greater transparency and better utilisation of public funds. Strengthening public procurement in Sri Lanka is vital for boosting the efficiency, cost-effectiveness and competitiveness of its exports.
