Political uncertainty has constrained FDIs, says LMD/TNS Poll

The latest islandwide poll conducted by TNS Lanka, for business magazine LMD, finds that a “whopping 95% of those polled agree that foreign investors are crucial to Sri Lanka. The strengthening of the economy, and creation of job opportunities and income generating ventures, is the main reason cited for this broad consensus,” the magazine reports.

LMD’s September edition notes: “Nine-in-10 respondents deem Sri Lanka to be attractive to foreign investors, with environmental factors, the facilities available in the island and the lack of a war supporting this point of view.”

So is enough is being done to attract quality FDIs?

A spokesperson for the pioneering magazine says that “a little over two-thirds of those consulted feel that the introduction profitable ventures and the creation of a healthier market environment will make a difference.”

A massive 84% majority of TNS Lanka’s survey sample state that political uncertainty is constraining FDI flows. “The lack of political stability is making new investors think twice before parting with finances,” LMD notes, adding that “the establishment of a strong government is imperative in this regard.”

“Almost the same number agree that corruption is stifling Sri Lanka’s FDI prospects, emphasising that this evil remains unabated,” the magazine observes.

LMD’s September Cover Story features the President of the Bar Association of Sri Lanka Geoffrey Alagaratnam, in a hard hitting interview on the anti-corruption drive (for full story, log on to www.LMD.lk). 

The latest edition of the pioneering business magazine has been released to supermarkets and bookstores in Colombo and the outstations.