Sri Lanka’s Exports Surpass US$12 Billion in First Eight Months of 2026

Sri Lanka’s export sector has surpassed the US$12 billion mark during the first eight months of 2026, with total exports reaching US$12.01 billion, according to the Export Development Board of Sri Lanka (EDB).

The figure represents a 4.26% increase compared with the US$11.52 billion recorded during the corresponding period in 2025. Both merchandise and services exports contributed to the growth.

Merchandise exports increased by 3.63% to US$9.41 billion, while services exports recorded stronger growth of 6.59%, reaching US$2.60 billion.

The positive performance continued in August, with total exports reaching US$1.60 billion, up 1.77% year-on-year. Services exports rose 13.97% during the month to US$331.87 million, while merchandise exports stood at US$1.27 billion.

According to provisional data from Sri Lanka Customs, including estimated values for Gems & Jewellery and Petroleum Products, merchandise exports in August amounted to US$1.269 billion, representing a 1.0% year-on-year decline compared with August 2025.

The EDB said the US$12 billion milestone highlights continued momentum in Sri Lanka’s export sector, while the growing contribution from services is supporting efforts to diversify the country’s export earnings and strengthen its presence in international markets.