Canberra to Colombo : Reforms that work

This discussion explores the utility of an independent Productivity Commission to drive evidence-based microeconomic reform in Sri Lanka, drawing parallels with the Australian model. Anushka explains that the Australian Productivity Commission, established under the Productivity Commission Act 1998, functions as a permanent, independent advisory body rather than a temporary inquiry committee. Unlike typical commissions, it can be commissioned by the Treasurer or self-initiate research based on economic needs. Key characteristics include: Statutory independence to prevent political interference. A mandate to investigate sector-specific barriers, regulatory efficiency, and market contestability. An advisory role where the government may accept or reject recommendations, though high-quality research serves to shape public policy discourse. Anushka notes that a similar attempt in Sri Lanka occurred in 2016–2018 via a Trade and Productivity Commission, but it lacked the legislative permanence of its Australian counterpart. The current Economic Transformation Act includes provisions for a National Productivity Commission accountable to Parliament.