Sri Lanka PMI: Manufacturing Steady & Services Slows Growth in Sept 📈

Sri Lanka’s manufacturing and services sectors maintained expansion in September 2026, driven by domestic activity, recruitment, and seasonal demand expectations. • Manufacturing PMI: Stood at 53.0 (unchanged from August), signalling steady expansion. - Driven by gains in food & beverages and textiles & wearing apparel. - Employment grew at a slower pace; inventory stock moderated to near neutral levels. - 3-month outlook remains positive on year-end festive demand expectations. • Services PMI: Eased to 60.5 in September from 65.6 in August, indicating growth at a moderate pace. - Growth led by financial services, with key contributions from education, insurance, and professional services. - Employment expanded as companies added staff to support operations. - Business outlook strengthened on favorable macro conditions, tourist arrivals, and upcoming holidays, despite global uncertainties.