Sri Lanka's official poverty line rises to Rs 17,592 in June

Sri Lanka’s official poverty line reached Rs 17,592 per person in June, reflecting a Rs 277 increase from the previous month, according to new data from the Department of Census and Statistics.

The baseline measure calculates the minimum monthly expenditure required for an individual to meet basic food and non-food needs, with adjustments made every month to account for price fluctuations.

The latest statistics reveal marked disparities across regions. Colombo recorded the highest district-level threshold at Rs 18,973, followed by Gampaha at Rs 18,876. In contrast, Monaragala registered the lowest poverty line at Rs 16,821.

The upward movement in the national figure comes as household expenditure continues to be impacted by price shifts in food and essential goods.

The official poverty line serves as a key benchmark for policymakers and researchers tracking changes in living standards, poverty levels, and the broader cost of living across Sri Lanka.