Private sector has over 400,000 vacancies; foreign workers may be recruited: Minister Sunil Handunnetti

03-Jul-2026

.

Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Sunil Handunnetti has said that more than 400,000 vacancies currently exist in Sri Lanka's private sector due to shortages of both skilled and unskilled workers, making it necessary to recruit employees from both local and foreign labour markets.

He made these remarks during a special discussion held at the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development on July 1.

The Minister said a new nationwide programme has been launched to protect young people from drug abuse and help them become productive members of society.

Under the programme, young men and women who have recovered from drug addiction after undergoing proper treatment and rehabilitation will be offered permanent employment opportunities in the private sector.

Handunnetti said that more than 400,000 vacancies currently exist in industries such as construction, tile manufacturing, spare parts production, motor vehicle component manufacturing and footwear production.

He said that due to the shortage of skilled and unskilled workers in the country, and in order to sustain economic growth, Sri Lanka may have to recruit workers from countries such as India and China.

The Minister added that, alongside foreign recruitment, rehabilitated Sri Lankan youth should also be provided with proper vocational training under the direct supervision of the Ministry so they can fill labour shortages in local industries.

He said this approach would provide a long-term solution to the country's workforce shortage while creating employment opportunities for rehabilitated youth.