Purchasing Managers’ Indices indicate improvements in both Manufacturing and Services activities in May 2025.

Sri Lanka Purchasing Managers’ Index for Manufacturing  (PMI – Manufacturing) recorded an index value of 55.5 in May 2025, indicating an expansion in manufacturing activities. All sub-indices rebounded above the neutral threshold during the month, indicating a recovery from the seasonal slowdown recorded in April 2025.

The increases in the New Orders and Production sub-indices were mainly attributable to the manufacture of textiles & wearing apparel sector. Further, the Stock of Purchases remained the same as the previous month’s levels. Moreover, the Employment sub-index denoted a recovery during the month, particularly due to the manufacture of textiles & wearing apparel sector. Meanwhile, Suppliers’ Delivery Time remained lengthened during the period.

The industry expectations for the next three months remain positive, anticipating a gradual increase in demand. However, respondents are cautious about the upward revision in the electricity tariffs and the tense situation in the Middle East.