Sri Lanka’s export sector surpasses US$ 9 billion in the first half of 2026, marking a significant milestone in the country’s external trade performance. According to the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB), combined merchandise and services exports reached US$ 9,012.24 million between January and June 2026, reflecting an 8% year‑on‑year increase compared to the same period in 2025.
This strong performance underscores the resilience and adaptability of Sri Lankan exporters amid evolving global market conditions.
The sustained expansion of services exports highlights the growing importance of Sri Lanka’s knowledge‑based economy. High‑value service industries such as ICT/BPM, construction, financial services, and logistics continue to diversify the export basket, enhance foreign exchange inflows, and create skilled employment opportunities.
Commenting on the achievement, Mangala Wijesinghe, Chairman & CEO of the EDB, stated:
“Sri Lanka’s export performance during the first half of 2026 demonstrates the resilience and competitiveness of our exporters, with total exports surpassing the US$ 9 billion milestone. The continued growth across both merchandise and services exports reflects the sector’s ability to adapt to evolving global market conditions while strengthening its contribution to economic recovery and foreign exchange earnings.”
He further emphasized that the National Export Development Plan (NEDP) 2026–2030 will provide a strategic framework to enhance competitiveness, promote global value chain integration, and drive sustainable export‑led growth.
