Sri Lanka Moves to Four-Day Workweek Amid Fuel Concerns Linked to Iran War
Colombo, Sri Lanka — Sri Lanka has announced a four-day workweek for government institutions as the country prepares for possible fuel shortages caused by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East involving Iran, the United States, and Israel. The decision is aimed at conserving fuel and ensuring that essential services can continue operating if global energy supplies are disrupted.
Under the new measure, the Sri Lankan government has declared every Wednesday a public holiday, effectively reducing the working week for state institutions to four days. The policy is expected to help reduce fuel consumption by limiting travel and lowering the overall demand for energy.
The move comes as the Middle East conflict disrupts global oil shipments, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy transit routes. Iranian actions in the region have affected maritime traffic, raising concerns about delays and shortages in fuel supplies for countries that rely heavily on imported oil.
Sri Lanka, which imports most of its energy from the Middle East, is considered especially vulnerable to these disruptions. Authorities fear that prolonged instability could strain the country’s fuel reserves and worsen economic pressures.
Officials said the four-day workweek will apply to government offices, schools, and universities, and authorities are also encouraging private companies to adopt a similar schedule wherever possible. Essential services such as hospitals, ports, and emergency response agencies will continue to function normally.
Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake reportedly chaired emergency discussions on the issue, stressing that the country must prepare for the possibility of prolonged disruptions while hoping for stability in global energy markets.
The government has also introduced other steps to manage fuel consumption, including fuel rationing systems and restrictions on weekly fuel purchases for motorists. These measures aim to ensure that limited supplies last longer if imports are affected by the ongoing geopolitical crisis.
Sri Lanka previously faced a severe economic crisis in 2022 that led to major fuel shortages and long queues at petrol stations, making the government particularly cautious about avoiding a similar situation.
The ripple effects of the Iran conflict are being felt across South Asia, with several countries exploring ways to manage energy supplies and maintain economic stability. Analysts warn that if disruptions in global oil shipments continue, more countries could introduce emergency measures to reduce fuel consumption.
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For Sri Lanka, the temporary shift to a four-day workweek is seen as a precautionary step to safeguard its energy reserves and reduce the economic impact of the ongoing geopolitical crisis.
Sri Lanka cuts workweek to four days as Iran war threatens fuel supplies: Wednesdays become public holidays in energy-saving move.
