Prabakharan was keener on Sri Lankan Mineral Sands than past Sri Lankan governments. He commanded the LTTE not to attack Mineral Sands of Sri Lanka. He blocked the water supply to the mineral sand and also caused difficulties for shipping activities. China, too, was keen on Sri Lanka Mineral Sands, as Prabakaran was. With the end of the war, they planned to purchase Sri Lankan Mineral Sands and eventually became the number one buyer. China got Mahinda’s government’s backing, and 2023 was the year the largest quantity of mineral sand was exported to China. Pulmoddai bears the largest mineral sand reserve in Sri Lanka. India took a while to realize onset of Chinese interest in Pulmoddai Mineral Sands. Long before Trump attempted to deal with Ukraine mineral sands, India was making a move to establish a deal with Sri Lanka Mineral Sand.
Anura’s government in 2024 facilitated India, thus placing China behind in this mineral sand race. Industries Minister Sunil Handunneththi visited India in February 2025 and discussed an MOU with the minister of mining of India. Last week a few representatives from reputed Indian mining firms visited Sri Lanka’s mining sites. While Anura’s government was opening the doors for India to explore Sri Lankan mineral sands, China had the expectation to dominate Pulmuddai mineral sand mines once the NPP government secured the north and east political power. However, at present, India is in the lead in this race for supremacy of Sri Lankan mineral sands, but it is too early to assert who will end victorious. Nonetheless, it is clear this battle for mineral sand supremacy would place Sri Lankan government in difficulty.
