The Sri Lanka Purchasing Managers' Index for Construction (PMI - Construction), as reflected by the Total Activity Index, recorded 59.4 in August 2026, indicating continued expansion in construction activities, albeit at a slower rate than in the previous month. Many survey respondents highlighted the ongoing bitumen shortage, which continued to constrain road construction progress, limiting the overall growth momentum of the construction industry.
The New Orders Index increased further in August, mainly driven by the government-funded projects. Meanwhile, the Employment and Quantity of Purchases Indices remained in expansion territory during the month. Many survey respondents continued to highlight persistent shortages of skilled labour and raw materials as key constraints to sectoral growth. Meanwhile, the Suppliers’ Delivery Times Index remained extended in August, reflecting prevailing workloads among suppliers.
Expectations for construction activities over the next three months remained positive, supported by newly awarded projects, though bitumen shortages and fluctuations in material prices continued to pose challenges.
