Located 6 degrees North of the equator in the heart of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is an island of approximately 65,000 km2. Sri Lanka's diverse geography and natural beauty make it a fascinating destination for travellers and a unique country in terms of its landscapes. Sri Lanka's geography is divided into wet zones and dry zones, each with distinct climatic conditions. This variation in climate and terrain contributes to the country's rich biodiversity. The island is crisscrossed by numerous rivers and lakes with the Mahaweli River the longest and the most important river in Sri Lanka. The Mahaweli Development Program in turn borrows its name from this river and has been implemented in multiple phases over several decades, starting in the 1960s and continuing into the 21st century. It has played a crucial role in transforming the agricultural landscape of Sri Lanka and contributing to the country's agricultural self-sufficiency and energy production and drive towards the industrialisation of the economy.

Sri Lanka's industrial sector is very diverse and includes manufacturing, construction, mining, and energy production. The country is world-renowned for its textile and garment industry, which is a major contributor to its exports. Sri Lanka has a growing manufacturing sector, with products ranging from food and beverages to electronics, machinery and central textiles and apparel. The industrial sector provides employment to a considerable portion of the country's workforce. This manufacturing industry is a major source of jobs, especially for women in semi-urban and rural Sri Lanka.