Sri Lanka’s internet subscriptions, including mobile connections, have risen to 26 million by the end of the second quarter of 2024, according to local analytics platform Charts.lk. This marks a 19% increase from the same period last year, indicating a growing demand for internet connectivity and digital services across the nation.
The platform notes that the rise in internet subscriptions began not due to economic growth but as a result of restricted physical movement during the initial stages of the Covid pandemic. This shift highlighted the increased reliance on digital services for communication and daily activities.
Global analytical platforms predict that 3G coverage in Sri Lanka will reach 97.80% by 2024, while 4G network coverage is expected to achieve full national coverage. Additionally, by 2024, 5.29 million households are expected to have internet access, with the average broadband connection speed estimated at 22.67 kbps.
Internet penetration is projected to reach 61.48% of the population, and consumer spending on ICT equipment is expected to reach US$ 41.78 million in 2024.