Sri Lanka’s economy has made a remarkable recovery in 2024, surpassing growth expectations by recording 5 percent growth, compared to the projected 4.4 percent, says the World Bank. This growth has been driven by strong performances in industry and services, particularly in construction and tourism-related services. In 2025, growth is expected to moderate to 3.5 percent reflecting scarring effects of the crisis and structural impediments to growth, amid global headwinds and unprecedented trade policy uncertainty.
Released today, the World Bank’s bi-annual Sri Lanka Development Update, titled Staying on Track, highlights that despite the positive growth and fiscal performance, significant challenges remain. While the economy is recovering, many Sri Lankans are still struggling. Household incomes, employment, and overall welfare are still well below pre-crisis levels, and the poverty rate remained alarmingly high at 24.5 percent in 2024. The labor market continues to struggle, leading to increased emigration as people look for opportunities abroad.
“While Sri Lanka’s economy is bouncing back stronger than expected, a significant portion of the population—about a third—remains in poverty or is at risk of falling back into poverty,” said David Sislen, World Bank Division Director for Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. “To ensure this recovery works for everyone, especially those who have been hit hardest, Sri Lanka can focus on policies that create jobs and support the poor.”