Sector-Specific Committees Aim to Close Longstanding Industry Policy Gaps

The Cabinet’s approval to set up seven new Industry Consultancy Committees reflects a broader shift towards sector-specific policymaking, addressing long-standing gaps that have limited the growth potential of several niche but economically significant industries.

Rather than focusing solely on post-crisis recovery, the initiative aims to correct structural weaknesses that have persisted for years.

Sri Lanka already operates 20 Consultancy Boards across major production industries, but many traditional, creative and service-oriented sectors have remained outside formal advisory frameworks.

Industries such as indigenous medicine, creative crafts, confectionery production and event management often fall between multiple ministries, resulting in fragmented regulation, unclear standards and weak institutional support.

By introducing dedicated committees for these sectors, the Government is attempting to streamline policy coordination and give industry stakeholders a clearer voice. The inclusion of representatives from State agencies, commercial boards, universities and research institutions is particularly significant, as it opens the door for innovation-driven policy rather than reactive regulation.

For example, the indigenous medicine sector has strong export potential but faces challenges related to quality assurance, intellectual property protection and sustainable sourcing of raw materials. A focused consultancy committee can help align health regulations, export standards and research funding, reducing uncertainty for producers and investors alike.

Similarly, the event management sector severely disrupted during recent economic downturns has lacked formal recognition as an industry. This has limited access to finance, training and social security mechanisms. A dedicated advisory body can help define industry standards, professional certification pathways and targeted incentives, supporting long-term formalisation and growth.

Another critical advantage of sector-specific committees is their ability to track emerging market trends. Creative craft industries and confectionery producers, for instance, are increasingly influenced by changing consumer preferences, sustainability requirements and digital marketing channels. Regular consultation with policymakers can ensure that regulations and support schemes evolve in step with these trends rather than lag behind them.

The Cabinet Spokesman Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa has emphasised evidence-based policymaking as a key objective. If implemented effectively, the committees could serve as early-warning systems, identifying bottlenecks before they escalate into sector-wide crises.

This proactive approach is especially important in a volatile economic environment where policy misalignment can quickly erode competitiveness.

Nevertheless, expectations must be managed. Consultancy committees are advisory by nature, and their success will depend on political will, administrative follow-through and transparency. Clear reporting mechanisms and timelines for acting on recommendations will be essential to avoid these bodies becoming symbolic rather than transformative.

Overall, the expansion of the consultancy framework signals recognition that diverse industries require tailored solutions. By closing policy gaps and improving coordination, the new committees have the potential to strengthen industrial governance and support more balanced, inclusive economic growth.