Digitalization of Wholesale Markets in Sri Lanka: Opportunities, Threats, and Strategic Directions

perera, chavindu (2026): Digitalization of Wholesale Markets in Sri Lanka: Opportunities, Threats, and Strategic Directions.

Abstract

—The wholesale market in Sri Lanka plays a key role in the national economy by linking primary goods producers and wholesalers directly with retail networks (Central Bank of Sri Lanka, 2025). Recently, this ecosystem has begun a gradual transition toward digital frameworks (ResearchGate, 2026). This study examines the current extent of digitalization across major wholesale hubs, focusing on the newly expanded Manning Market in Peliyagoda (Ministry of Trade, 2025). It analyzes the key systemic catalysts driving this evolutionary shift, including macro GovTech policies, rising local internet penetration, and collaborative B2B platforms (World Bank, 2025). Concurrently, significant structural challenges are evaluated, such as distributed infrastructure deficits, digital literacy gaps among traditional traders, and deeply rooted institutional resistance to emerging technologies (Fernando, 2024). Based on empirical data and trend projections, this paper outlines critical strategic recommendations to close the digital divide, minimize post-harvest inefficiencies, and unlock long-term economic growth across the country’s wholesale supply chain (McKinsey & Company, 2026)

• Item Type: MPRA Paper
• Language: English
• Keywords: Wholesale Markets, Supply Chain Modernization, Sri Lanka Economy
• Subjects: O - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth > O3 - Innovation ; Research and Development ; Technological Change ; Intellectual Property Rights; O - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth > O3 - Innovation ; Research and Development ; Technological Change ; Intellectual Property Rights > O31 - Innovation and Invention: Processes and Incentives; O - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth > O3 - Innovation ; Research and Development ; Technological Change ; Intellectual Property Rights > O33 - Technological Change: Choices and Consequences ; Diffusion Processes; Q - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics ; Environmental and Ecological Economics > Q1 - Agriculture

References

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