Sri Lanka's expenditure on fuel imports has increased by 51.5% during the first nine months of 2026, reaching USD 4,487.2 million, compared to the corresponding period in the previous year.

According to the latest government figures, the country spent USD 2,961.3 million on fuel imports between January and September 2025. This indicates an increase of USD 1,525.9 million in import expenditure during the corresponding period this year.

However, fuel import expenditure for September 2026 recorded a decline compared to the same month in 2025.

Expenditure on fuel imports in September this year amounted to USD 415.1 million, compared to USD 440.7 million in September 2025, representing a reduction of USD 25.6 million, or 5.8%.

Meanwhile, the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) recorded a 40.4% increase in net sales revenue during the first six months of 2026.

Accordingly, the CPC’s net sales revenue rose to Rs. 576.6 billion during the January–June period this year, compared to Rs. 410.7 billion recorded during the corresponding period in 2025.

The increase in revenue has been recorded amid higher domestic fuel prices following the escalation of tensions in the Middle East towards the end of the first quarter of 2026.

The geopolitical situation has also contributed to significant disruptions in global energy supply chains, including restrictions on petroleum transportation through the Strait of Hormuz.

Therefore, global crude oil and petroleum product prices, alongside shipping and insurance costs, have experienced substantial increases, placing additional pressure on international energy markets.