Sri Lanka’s Exports Show Resilience as Earnings Reach US$ 15.8 Billion

Sri Lanka’s export sector sustained its upward momentum, recording a. 5.8% year-on-year growth during the January–November period, according to the Export Development Board. Based on Sri Lanka Customs data and estimated figures for gems and jewellery, petroleum products, and services, total exports reached US$ 15,776.36 million during the eleven months. In November alone, combined merchandise and services exports amounted to US$ 1,364.52 million, reflecting a 5.56% y-o-y increase compared to November 2024.

Commenting on the performance, EDB Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer Mangala Wijesinghe said the results highlight the resilience and competitiveness of Sri Lanka’s export sector, supported by recovering key markets, sustained production capacity, and the effective execution of export development strategies. He added that the growth also signals deeper integration into global trade, alongside continued efforts to strengthen competitiveness and diversify markets amid evolving global challenges. Notably, export earnings by end-November have already achieved over 86.3% of the annual export target, underscoring the commitment of the country’s export community.

On a sectoral basis, merchandise exports grew 5.95% y-o-y in November to US$ 1,053.22 million, while cumulative merchandise exports for January–November rose 6.41% to US$ 12,417.98 million. Services exports in November increased an estimated 4.27% to US$ 311.3 million, and for the eleven-month period expanded 3.63% to US$ 3,358.38 million, further reinforcing the overall growth trajectory.