Purchasing Managers’ Indices indicate expansions in both Manufacturing and Services activities in September 2026.
Sri Lanka Purchasing Managers’ Index for Manufacturing (PMI – Manufacturing) recorded an index value of 53.0 in September 2026, remaining unchanged compared to the previous month. This indicates that manufacturing activities continued to expand at a similar pace during the month.
The expansion in New Orders and Production was largely attributed to positive developments in both the food and beverages and textiles and wearing apparel manufacturing sectors. Meanwhile, Employment continued to expand, albeit at a slower pace, in September. However, the Stock of Purchases moderated towards the neutral threshold, indicating broadly unchanged inventory levels during the month. Further, Suppliers' Delivery Time remained lengthened during the month.
The outlook for manufacturing activities over the next three months remains positive, driven largely by optimism on year-end seasonal demand.
Sri Lanka Purchasing Managers’ Index for Services (PMI – Services) recorded an index value of 60.5 in September 2026, indicating an expansion in services activities at a slower rate compared to the previous month.
Business Activity increased in September 2026, reflecting improvements across several sub-sectors, led by financial services, with notable contributions from education and professional services.
New Businesses increased in September 2026, primarily driven by the expansion in the financial services, with positive contributions from the insurance, education, professional, and other personal services sub-sectors.
Employment increased in September 2026, as firms across several sectors increased recruitment to meet operational needs and support business expansion. Meanwhile, Backlogs of Work decline, although at a slower rate compared to the previous month.
Expectations for Business Activity over the next three months continued to improve, supported by favourable macroeconomic conditions, increased tourist arrivals, and the upcoming festive season. However, broader global uncertainties continued to pose risks to the outlook.
