Construction & Real Estate

While the construction sector witnessed substantial growth in the 24 months leading up to 2018, domestic market forces including a falling rupee, warnings of an asset bubble and political instability have stymied growth of late. However, despite market disruptions, a number of key projects forged ahead in 2018, including Port City Colombo and the Hambantota Industrial Zone. Impressive economic growth since 2009 has bolstered Sri Lanka’s property market. More employment opportunities, rising salaries and rapid rural-urban migration have all played a part in the expansion of housing and commercial properties. In recent years, increased investor appetite and a maturing economy have transformed Colombo into a dynamic modern city that still retains a sense of its past. This chapter contains an interview with Arun Pathak, Managing Director, WelcomHotels Lanka.