Economy picks...

In the full year of 2024, the economy achieved a complete turnaround, posting 5.5% growth as against a contraction of 2.3% in 2023.

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Issuing a communiqué on the release of the National Accounts Estimates, the DCS said agricultural, industrial, and services activities recorded increases of 3.6%, 8.1%, and 3.5%, respectively.

The general price level in the economy began to rise early in 3Q 2025, alongside a largely stable but slightly declining exchange rate against major currencies, which incentivised entrepreneurs and exporters.

Imports and exports remained at elevated levels during 3Q 2025 compared to the corresponding period of the previous year. The expansion of domestic credit, mainly through cooperatives and the private sector, was instrumental in supporting the reported 5.4% growth in Sri Lanka’s economy, the DCS said.

This was further reflected in the growth of financial activities during 3Q 2025. In addition, increased tourist arrivals and a higher supply of investment goods, together with lower-cost imports of intermediate goods, were key contributors to the reported growth in certain manufacturing and construction activities, as well as in services activities, particularly accommodation services and goods and passenger transport services.

Primary economic activities such as agriculture and mining also played a significant role in the reported growth during the quarter. This was further supported by expansions in electricity and water supply and most services activities in 3Q 2025.

The DCS provided the following commentary on sectoral performance:

In 3Q 2025, agricultural activities recorded a 3.6% expansion, compared to the 3.7% growth reported in the same quarter of the previous year. With the exception of two sub-sectors, all other agricultural activities reported growth during the period.