Sri Lanka’s total exports surpassed the US$12 billion mark during the first eight months of 2026, reaching an estimated US$12.01 billion, the Export Development Board (EDB) said.
The figure represents a 4.26% increase compared with the US$11.52 billion recorded during the corresponding period in 2025, with both merchandise and services exports recording positive growth.
According to the EDB, merchandise exports increased by 3.63% to US$9.41 billion, while services exports grew by 6.59% to US$2.60 billion.
The Board said the continued growth in services exports was strengthening the overall export base and contributing to the diversification of Sri Lanka’s export earnings.
In August 2026, total exports reached an estimated US$1.60 billion, recording a 1.77% year-on-year increase.
Services exports recorded particularly strong growth during the month, increasing by 13.97% to US$331.87 million, while merchandise exports amounted to US$1.27 billion.
According to provisional data released by Sri Lanka Customs, together with estimated export values for gems and jewellery and petroleum products, merchandise exports in August amounted to US$1.27 billion, representing a 1% decline compared with August 2025.
Meanwhile, services exports generated an estimated US$331.87 million during the month, reflecting a 13.97% increase compared with the corresponding period last year.
The EDB said the January-August performance demonstrated the continued resilience of Sri Lanka’s external sector, with total exports surpassing the US$12 billion milestone.
The Board said the positive performance of both merchandise and services exports reflected continued progress towards developing a more diversified, competitive and export-oriented economy, in line with Sri Lanka’s long-term economic development objectives.
