1.3 Million Sri Lankans at Risk of Food Insecurity: World Food Programme

09-Jun-2026

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The United Nations World Food Programme has warned that 1.3 million people in Sri Lanka are at risk of being unable to meet their basic food requirements due to global conflict-driven economic pressures.

According to its report, rising tensions in the Middle East are expected to further intensify impacts on food and energy prices, trade disruptions, and economic instability in vulnerable countries.

The report notes that Sri Lanka remains particularly exposed due to its dependence on Middle Eastern energy imports, remittances, and export markets such as tea.

It further highlights that rising food, fuel, and fertiliser prices are significantly reducing household purchasing power, increasing the risk of food insecurity.

The report also identifies Somalia, Afghanistan, Sudan, Gaza, South Lebanon, Yemen, and Haiti among the regions facing severe food insecurity, with millions already unable to meet basic nutritional needs.