Sri Lanka’s total export earnings surpassed US$7.3 billion during the first five months of 2026, according to Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Export Development Board (EDB), Mangala Wijesinghe.
Speaking at a media briefing held today (24) at the Department of Government Information, Wijesinghe said the country’s export sector recorded steady growth, with merchandise exports increasing by 18.3 percent and services exports by 18.6 percent in May 2026 compared to the same month last year.
According to provisional data released by Sri Lanka Customs and estimated figures for gems, jewellery and petroleum products, Sri Lanka’s total merchandise and services export earnings from January to May 2026 are estimated at US$7,393.39 million. This represents a 7.5 percent increase compared to the corresponding period in 2025.
During the five-month period, merchandise export earnings reached US$5,758.44 million, reflecting a 7.63 percent growth, while services exports generated US$1,634.95 million, recording a 7.31 percent increase.
In May 2026 alone, Sri Lanka’s export earnings climbed to US$1,570.64 million, marking a notable year-on-year growth of 18.34 percent compared to May 2025.
The EDB Chairman noted that the continued growth in both merchandise and services exports highlights the resilience and strengthening performance of Sri Lanka’s export sector.


