New Regulations to be Introduced to Streamline the Private
Security Services Sector
February 26, 2026
The Cabinet has approved a comprehensive set of measures to strengthen the regulatory framework governing the private security sector, aimed at improving professionalism, service quality, and efficiency in line with national priorities. Under the new framework, initiated by the Ministry of Defence, private security institutions will be subject to stricter registration and licensing procedures, clearer categorisation of services, and enhanced supervision to ensure accountability. The importance of introducing recognized training standards, competency requirements, and professional codes of conduct has also been emphasized to elevate the overall standards of the industry.
The private security sector, currently governed by the Regulation of Private Security Agencies Act No. 45 of 1998, will now see companies categorized according to the nature of their services, replacing the existing uniform registration system. Personnel will receive training tailored to the specific demands of their work and will have access to nationally recognized vocational qualifications through programmes coordinated with the Ministry of Education, higher education institutions, and vocational training. Uniform regulations, ethical guidelines, and competency certification will further ensure professional conduct, while salaries will be paid in accordance with the Wages Boards Ordinance and the National Minimum Wage of Workers (Amendment) Act, No. 11 of 2025.
At present, approximately 150,000 personnel are employed across 1,050 registered private security service providers. The Cabinet approved these reforms following a proposal submitted by the President in his capacity as Defence Minister. The new measures are expected to streamline operations, enhance service delivery, create opportunities for local and foreign employment, and align the sector with contemporary national and international standards.