Sri Lanka, Feb. 13 -- By Dr Manoj Thibbotuwawa and Dr Lakmini Fernando
Public expenditure on agriculture as a share of total government spending has decreased from 6.4% to 2% between 2014 and 2023.
The irrigation subsector receives most of the agricultural spending (41%), with subsidies accounting for a high 26%.
Change to funding priorities necessary to address critical concerns.
The agricultural sector in Sri Lanka has long been a pillar of the nation's economy, yet its decline reflects a complex interplay of economic shifts, policy decisions, and underutilised potential. Agriculture's contribution to the overall economy in Sri Lanka has gradually diminished over time, while the agricultural labour force has shrunk at a slower rate. T...