In its March edition, business magazine LMD reports that the economic sentiment in Sri Lanka remains steady, with a positive outlook despite challenges in the investment climate. The latest survey reflects optimism in corporate circles, driven by an increase in business confidence, as shown in the LMD-PEPPERCUBE Business Confidence Index (BCI).
However, concerns about long-term growth and strategic planning persist, according to PepperCube Consultants. In the first week of February, 64% of survey participants expressed confidence in the economy’s improvement over the next 12 months, a six-point increase from January. Notably, only 8% of participants were optimistic about the economy before the presidential election in September.
A major shift in sentiment was observed among sales executives, with 90% of polled respondents expecting higher sales volumes over the next year, a 20% increase from January. Moreover, expectations of improved sales in the next three months surged to 79%, up from 51% in January. The latest edition of LMD also features a cover story on the export sector’s outlook, with industry leaders evaluating the nation’s plans to meet export targets.