Sri Lanka’s exports top US$ 9 billion in first half of 2026

Sri Lanka’s total exports surpassed the US$9 billion mark during the first half of 2026, recording sustained growth across both merchandise and services exports, according to the Export Development Board (EDB).

Combined merchandise and services exports reached an estimated US$ 9,012.24 Mn between January and June 2026, an 8% increase compared to the same period last year.

Merchandise exports rose 8.95% year-on-year to US$ 7,073.31 Mn, while services exports increased 4.49% to US$ 1,938.94 Mn, reflecting continued growth in Sri Lanka’s external sector.

In June alone, merchandise exports climbed 15.09% year-on-year to US$ 1,314.10 Mn, while services exports grew 3.75% to US$ 344.52 million, bringing total exports for the month to US$ 1,658.62 Mn, up 12.53% from June 2025.

Commenting on the performance, EDB Chairman and CEO Mangala Wijesinghe said the figures demonstrated the resilience and competitiveness of Sri Lankan exporters despite evolving global market conditions.

Among sectors recording strong growth in June were electrical and electronic components, food and beverages, rubber-based products, spices and essential oils, seafood, mineral products, ornamental fish and ICT/BPM services.

However, exports of apparel and textiles, tea and coconut-based products declined during the month.

During the first six months of the year, electrical and electronic components, coconut-based products, rubber-based products, processed food and beverages, seafood and ICT/BPM services recorded notable growth, while apparel and textiles, tea, and spices and essential oils registered declines.

Among Sri Lanka’s major export markets, India, China, Turkey, Japan and Mexico recorded positive growth during both June and the January-June period. India overtook the United Kingdom to become Sri Lanka’s second-largest export destination, while exports to the United States remained broadly stable during the first half of the year. (Newswire)

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