Sri Lanka’s Manufacturing PMI climbed to 56.6 in May 2026, up sharply from 42.6 in April, indicating a clear recovery in manufacturing activity. All component indices moved back above the neutral 50 threshold.
Stocks of purchases rose to 52.6 from 44.0, broadly in line with stronger new orders (52.6 vs 36.4) and higher production (54.6 vs 30.5). The increase in new orders and output was driven mainly by the food and beverages and textiles and wearing apparel sectors. Production was further supported by a greater number of working days in May compared with April.
Suppliers’ delivery times remained extended, although the respective index eased to 66.3 from 68.7, indicating a slight improvement in supply conditions. Survey respondents continued to highlight the conflict in the Middle East as a key source of operational disruptions.