First nationwide survey in over a decade to cover both agricultural and non-agricultural sectors
Sri Lanka is preparing to undertake a wide-ranging economic census over the next two years, marking the country’s first such effort in more than a decade. The Department of Census and Statistics (DCS) will spearhead the initiative, which will be rolled out in two distinct phases across 2025 and 2026, according to State Minister of Finance Nalinda Jayatissa.
“The Department has planned to conduct the economic census in 2025 and 2026, covering agricultural and non-agricultural economic activities in two separate phases,” Jayatissa told the media. He emphasized that updated, comprehensive economic data is vital for formulating evidence-based policy, promoting equitable growth, and ensuring effective allocation of national resources.
The first phase, scheduled for 2025, will focus on agricultural activities—capturing data from farmers, plantations, livestock operations, and fisheries. This data is expected to shed light on rural economic patterns, land use, productivity, and challenges faced by the agricultural sector.
The second phase, in 2026, will concentrate on non-agricultural sectors, including manufacturing, construction, services, and trade. This will involve collecting key metrics from both formal enterprises and informal economic activities, aiming to better understand the structure and performance of Sri Lanka’s broader economy.
Sri Lanka’s last economic census was conducted in 2013/14, and experts say a fresh census is long overdue. In the years since, the country has faced significant economic fluctuations—including the COVID-19 pandemic, political upheaval, and financial restructuring—highlighting the need for up-to-date, granular economic data.
The census will also aid in evaluating the impact of recent economic reforms and provide a factual basis for future national development strategies. Officials from the DCS noted that planning and pilot studies are already underway to ensure accuracy, efficiency, and wide coverage.