Beyond numbers: Where is real plan to rebuild Sri Lanka?

The 2027 Budget presentation in Sri Lanka has garnered attention for its ambitious promises and substantial financial allocations, yet it fails to address critical concerns regarding job creation, rising living costs, investment, and the nation's long-term economic prospects. Prof. Ranjith Bandara, Emeritus Professor of Economics at the University of Colombo, questions whether the budget is a genuine effort to transform Sri Lanka's economy or a mere exercise in presenting attractive numbers and political promises.

While governments are expected to present a comprehensive overview of income and expenditure, the 2027 Budget falls short in providing a clear roadmap for the country's economic future. The fiscal deficit is projected at approximately Rs. 1.75 trillion, with interest payments alone amounting to Rs. 2.64 trillion. These figures highlight the ongoing pressure on government finances.

Economic recovery in Sri Lanka has shown progress, with manageable inflation, improved revenue collection, and increased fiscal discipline. However, the budget does not offer a convincing strategy to achieve the government's target of at least 7% economic growth in the medium term. Investment, productivity improvements, and institutional reforms are essential to bridge the gap between projected growth and actual outcomes.

For ordinary families, economic recovery is measured by the cost of living, including food, electricity, transport, medicine, and education. Although the budget proposes tax concessions and social assistance, such as increased income-tax-free thresholds and social protection programmes, these measures do not fully address the underlying issue of inadequate income and high living costs.

Millions of low-income workers do not benefit directly from income tax reductions, as their primary challenge lies in earning sufficient wages and affording essential goods.

Youth unemployment remains a significant challenge in Sri Lanka, with young people aged 15-24 facing a 17.8% unemployment rate, compared to 4% for the overall population. The budget mentions training, digital development, and public-sector recruitment, but these initiatives alone are insufficient to generate employment. A comprehensive strategy is needed to create well-paid jobs in various sectors, including manufacturing, technology, modern agriculture, logistics, and professional services.

Without clear answers to these questions, young people may continue to seek opportunities overseas, weakening the country's long-term development prospects.

Another major concern is the unequal distribution of economic opportunities. Despite poverty remaining at 16.9% in 2025, rural households, estate communities, and low-income urban families continue to face significant difficulties. Economic growth does not automatically improve their lives, and the budget's welfare payments, housing support, and regional development allocations fail to create lasting economic opportunities.

While social assistance is essential for vulnerable households, it cannot replace income-generating opportunities. The true measure of development success lies not in the number of people receiving assistance, but in the creation of sustainable economic growth that benefits all segments of society.