Sri Lanka’s exports top US$13.6 Bn in first nine months

Sri Lanka’s export earnings rose 5.04% year-on-year to US$13.61 billion in the first nine months of 2026, supported by growth in merchandise and services exports, with electrical and electronic components, spices and processed food among the strongest-performing sectors.

Total exports during January–September increased from US$12.96 billion in the corresponding period last year, according to the latest figures released by the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB). Merchandise exports grew 5.35% to US$10.76 billion, while services exports increased 3.88% to US$2.85 billion, reflecting continued expansion across both segments.

September recorded particularly strong growth, with total exports rising 17.23% year-on-year to US$1.69 billion. Merchandise exports surged 21.66% to US$1.39 billion, while services exports edged up 0.67% to US$306.17 million. Among the key sectors, electrical and electronic components recorded the strongest growth during the first nine months, with earnings increasing 61.05% to US$508.86 million. Exports of spices, essential oils and oleoresins rose 30.53% to US$430.53 million, while food and beverages grew 20.90% to US$526.31 million.

Rubber and rubber-based products generated US$773.88 million, up 8.44%, while coconut-based products increased 3.68% to US$942.5 million. ICT and business process management exports also expanded 3.69% to an estimated US$1.24 billion. However, apparel and textile exports declined 5.68% to US$3.78 billion, while tea exports fell 6.83% to US$1.08 billion. Seafood exports recorded a 2.03% contraction during the period. The United States remained Sri Lanka’s largest merchandise export destination, accounting for approximately 20.3% of total merchandise exports. India overtook the United Kingdom to become the second-largest destination, with exports rising 12.3% to US$889.84 million. EDB Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Mangala Wijesinghe said sustaining growth would require greater competitiveness, value addition, innovation, technology adoption and market diversification.

The National Export Development Plan 2026–2030 targets annual export earnings of US$36 billion by 2030, providing a framework to expand market access, promote investment and strengthen the country’s export sector.

Source : Daily News