Sri Lanka construction activity PMI eases in Sept amid bitumen shortage

ECONOMYNEXT – Sri Lanka’s construction sector activity expanded at a slower rate in September 2026 due to an ongoing bitumen shortage, with a Purchasing Managers Index compiled by the central bank registering a value of 57.8 compared to 59.4 in August.

“The shortage of bitumen remained a major constraint, delaying several road construction projects,” the central bank said.

The New Orders Index expanded at a higher pace, registering 65.6 in September from 62.5 in August, “primarily underpinned by government-funded projects” the central bank said.

The Employment Index grew at a moderate rate registering 58.1, from the previous month’s 59.7, “reflecting ongoing recruitments supported by steady project availability, although many firms continued to cite shortages of skilled workers.”

The Quantity of Purchases Index rose at a higher rate, registering 62.5 from 59.4 in August, “reflecting procurement requirements for ongoing and newly awarded projects.”

The Suppliers’ Delivery Time lengthened further, reflecting sustained supply-side pressures, registering an index value of 65.6 from 59.4 in August.

Expectations for construction activity over the next three months remained positive, underpinned by newly awarded projects, despite ongoing challenges with material and skilled labor availability, CBSL said. (Colombo/Oct31/2026)