Sri Lanka has recorded a notable drop in marriages, live births, and overall population growth, according to the latest statistics released by the Department of Population and Statistics.

Only 139,290 marriages were registered in 2024, a 5.54% decrease from 2023, continuing the downward trend seen since the pandemic and economic crisis. 

The country’s total population in 2024 stands at 21,763,170.

Birth rates have also fallen sharply. Sri Lanka recorded 220,761 live births in 2024, a steep drop from 301,706 in 2020 and 247,900 in 2023. 

Death rates increased, with 220,761 deaths in 2024, up from 181,239 in 2023, further narrowing the gap between births and deaths.

Adding to concern, migration has accelerated. 

Net migration remained negative, with 176,932 more people leaving than entering between July 2023 and June 2024. As a result, the mid-year population declined by 120,555 in 2024.

Population experts warn that the combined decline in marriages, low birth rates, rising deaths, and increased outward migration will pose long-term challenges to Sri Lanka’s labour force, economy, and aging population management.