IT-BPM expert urges reforms in Sri Lanka labor laws
COLOMBO, SRI LANKA — Sri Lanka Association for Software Services Companies (SLASSCOM) Director Shanaka Fernando calls for reforms in Sri Lanka’s “outdated” labor laws to align with the country’s growing IT-BPM industry.
During a public consultation session initiated by Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Labour, Fernando suggests the adoption of a four-day working week, extending insurance coverage for work-from-home arrangements, and implementing measures to address poor performance.
The industry expert believes that reforms in these areas would enhance the competitiveness of the local IT-BPM market and create a favorable environment for investment and talent retention.
Changes in the country’s labor laws would also ultimately contribute to its goal of generating US$5 billion in revenue, creating 200,000 direct jobs, and establishing 1,000 IT/BPM startups by 2025.
The IT-BPM industry is Sri Lanka’s fourth-largest foreign revenue earner. In 2022, the sector brought US$2.1 billion to the country, employing around 150,000 people, with indirect employment opportunities reaching nearly 250,000.
