Sri Lanka has imported 120,272 metric tons more sugar in the first half of 2025 compared to last year, while domestic production has sharply declined, raising serious concerns about self-sufficiency and food security.
A report released by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka reveals that sugar imports surged to 343,416 metric tons during the first six months of 2025. This marks a steep rise from the 223,144 metric tons imported in the same period of 2024. The figures point to an alarming dependency on foreign markets at a time when the local economy is grappling with inflationary pressures and rising import costs.
Equally concerning is the significant drop in domestic sugar production. In the first six months of 2025, local production stood at only 26,792 metric tons. This is a sharp decline from the 42,605 metric tons produced during the same period in 2024, showing a shortfall of 15,813 metric tons. Experts warn that this decline not only undermines local farmers and producers but also exposes the country to greater risks from fluctuating global prices and supply chain disruptions.
Analysts suggest that the widening gap between imports and local production could signal deep-rooted structural issues in Sri Lanka’s agricultural and industrial policies. While imports may temporarily meet demand, over-reliance on them may weaken food security and increase the financial burden on the economy. The situation underscores the urgent need for targeted reforms to boost domestic sugar production, strengthen agro-industrial support, and create a sustainable path toward self-reliance.
Sri Lanka now stands at a crossroads: either continue down the path of heavy reliance on imports or invest strategically to empower local industries and ensure long-term stability.
