The Business of Professional Accountancy and Imperial Influence: Evidence From a Developing Country in South Asia

Abstract

This article examines the business of providing accountancy qualifications in South Asia and the extent of British influence on the accountancy market using the perceptions of the professional accountants in Sri Lanka. The analysis show that the British accountancy bodies have contributed to the development of accountancy in Sri Lanka and relatively equal contribution has been made by local body—the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka (ICASL). Results show evidence that the British influence is still substantial and continue their business as there is high demand for British accountancy qualifications irrespective of the local accounting qualifications of ICASL.

KEYWORDS:

• Sri Lanka
• accounting profession
• imperial influence
• British qualifications
• South Asia