Sri Lanka has witnessed a significant increase in internet subscriptions, including mobile connections, which reached 26 million units by the end of the second quarter of 2024, according to data from local analytics platform Charts.lk. This marks a 19% year-on-year growth, highlighting the rising demand for digital connectivity and services across the country.
Charts.lk noted that the initial surge in internet subscriptions was driven not by economic growth but by restricted physical movement during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, which shifted many activities online.
Network Coverage and Penetration:
- 3G coverage: Expected to cover 97.8% of the country in 2024.
- 4G coverage: Projected to achieve 100% nationwide availability.
- Internet penetration: Forecasted to reach 61.48% of the population by year-end.
Digital Infrastructure and Usage:
- 5.29 million households are expected to have internet access in 2024.
- The average broadband connection speed is estimated at 22.67 kbit/s.
- Consumer spending on ICT equipment is projected to reach USD 41.78 million within the year.
The continued expansion of internet coverage and penetration underscores the growing importance of digital infrastructure in driving connectivity and economic activity in Sri Lanka.
