Colombo – October 2025
Sri Lanka’s leading business and labor representatives convened for a roundtable discussion on introducing a national living wage framework. The initiative seeks to balance fair worker compensation with maintaining industry competitiveness.
Key Discussion Points:
- Cost of living alignment: Determining wage levels that reflect urban and rural economic realities.
- Sectoral implications: Especially in apparel, manufacturing, and export-oriented industries.
- Impact on supply chains: Ensuring wage increases do not disrupt competitiveness.
- Policy & Implementation: Collaboration between government, business, and labor groups for phased adoption.
Economic Implications:
The introduction of a living wage could improve worker productivity, retention, and satisfaction, while also enhancing Sri Lanka’s global reputation for ethical labor practices. However, businesses stress the need for gradual implementation to avoid inflationary pressures and market disruptions.
Expert View:
“Establishing a living wage is a critical step for Sri Lanka to align with global labor standards, improve brand image in export markets, and ensure sustainable economic growth,” commented a labor economist.
