The Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) anticipates continued economic growth in the second quarter of 2024, primarily driven by strong performances in the industry and services sectors. This follows a 5.3% growth in Q1-2024, with the robust first-half growth partly attributed to a low statistical base from the previous year. However, CBSL expects growth to slow down in the second half of 2024 due to a higher statistical base from the positive growth recorded in late 2023.
The CBSL report highlights that easing monetary conditions are expected to stimulate growth by encouraging investments, increasing consumer spending, and boosting aggregate demand. Additionally, the projected improvement in economic conditions of key trading partners is expected to benefit Sri Lanka's economy through increased exports and strong demand for tourism. However, fiscal constraints may limit the government's ability to promote economic activity, posing challenges to reducing the negative output gap sustainably.