Sri Lanka, Sept. 1 -- Sri Lanka's construction sector expanded at a faster pace in July, supported by a steady flow of projects, although the shortages of key inputs and elevated material prices continued to constrain the industry.

The Purchasing Managers' Index for Construction rose to 61.4 in July, from 60.0 in June, remaining firmly above the 50-point threshold that separates expansion from contraction, the Central Bank said yesterday.

The surveyed companies reported a sustained flow of construction work during the month, despite the input constraints, particularly a shortage of bitumen.

New orders increased at a faster rate, with the sub-index rising to 57.1, from 54.3 in June, reflecting a steady inflow of projects.

Employment a...