Sri Lanka’s exports top US$ 9 bn in 1H-2026
by strong growth in both merchandise and services exports, according to the latest figures released by the Export Development Board (EDB).
Combined merchandise and services exports reached an estimated US$ 9.01 billion during January-June 2026, recording an 8% year-on-year increase compared with the corresponding period last year. Merchandise exports grew by 8.95% to US$ 7.07 billion, while services exports rose 4.49% to US$ 1.94 billion, reflecting the continued expansion of Sri Lanka’s knowledge-based economy. In June alone, total exports climbed 12.53% year-on-year to US$ 1.66 billion, comprising US$ 1.31 billion in merchandise exports, up 15.09%, and US$ 344.52 million in services exports, an increase of 3.75%.
Commenting on the performance, EDB Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Mangala Wijesinghe said the results demonstrated the resilience and competitiveness of Sri Lankan exporters despite evolving global market conditions. He said the EDB would continue working with exporters and stakeholders to strengthen Sri Lanka’s global market position through innovation, market diversification, value addition and trade facilitation under the National Export Development Plan (NEDP) 2026-2030.
Among the best-performing sectors during the first half of the year were Electrical and Electronic Components, which surged 123.48% to US$ 450.2 million, while ICT/BPM exports increased 17.63% to US$ 885.42 million, highlighting the growing contribution of the country’s digital economy.
Other sectors recording notable growth included Coconut-based Products, up 14.59% to US$ 614.93 million, Food and Beverages, which grew 24.45% to US$ 347.13 million, Seafood, up 17.61% to US$ 122.51 million, and Rubber and Rubber-based Products, which rose 5.24% to US$ 92.32 million. However, traditional export sectors continued to face headwinds. Apparel and textile exports declined 6.07% to US$ 2.44 billion, while tea exports fell 5.69% to US$ 700.8 million amid weaker demand in key markets. Exports of spices and essential oils also edged down 0.1% to US$ 208.32 million. The United States remained Sri Lanka’s largest export market, accounting for about 22% of merchandise exports, with shipments reaching US$ 1.44 billion during the six-month period. India strengthened its position as the second-largest export destination after exports surged 36.16% to US$ 688.47 million, overtaking the United Kingdom. Exports to Turkey and China also posted strong growth, increasing 98.36% and 19.56%, respectively.
The EDB said the strong first-half performance reflects the country’s progress towards a more diversified, competitive and export-oriented economy, with services and high-value manufacturing continuing to play an increasingly important role in generating foreign exchange and supporting long-term economic growth.
Source: Daily News
