📈 Sri Lanka PMI: Manufacturing and Services Expand in Feb

Sri Lanka’s industrial and service sectors maintained growth momentum in February 2026, driven by pre-festive preparations and robust domestic demand, according to the Central Bank. • Manufacturing Sector: The index rose to 56.8 (from 56.1 in Jan), reflecting a faster rate of expansion. Growth was broad-based across all sub-indices, specifically in Production and New Orders. • Services Sector: Recorded an index value of 54.4, indicating continued but slower growth compared to the high of 64.5 in January. Key drivers included professional services, personal services, and the accommodation, food & beverage sectors. • Employment & Inventory: Both sectors reported workforce expansions to meet rising consumer demand. Manufacturers engaged in pre-emptive stocking of raw materials to mitigate potential supply chain pressures. • Supply Chain & Risks: Suppliers’ delivery times lengthened due to global logistics strain. Firms expressed caution over downside risks linked to Middle East conflicts and global economic uncertainty. • Outlook: The 3-month outlook remains positive across both sectors, underpinned by anticipated demand for the upcoming festive season and planned business expansions. _Source: Central Bank of Sri Lanka (Provisional Data)_