Sri Lanka’s Exports Kick Off 2026 with a Bang, Climb to US$ 1.53Bn as Services Take Off
Sri Lanka’s export sector has kicked off 2026 on a high note, with total earnings climbing to US$ 1.53 billion in January — marking a strong 13.71% year-on-year growth. The performance shows how the country is steadily bouncing back in global trade.
Merchandise exports picked up by 10.66%, driven by tea, coconut-based products, rubber goods, electronics, and seafood. Coconut exports especially shot up, while electrical components and seafood exports also ramped up sharply, reflecting stronger global demand.
Services exports truly stood out, jumping up 24.59% as ICT/BPM earnings took off, reinforcing Sri Lanka’s shift toward a knowledge-driven economy. The services sector continues to step up and drive forward overall export growth.
On the market front, exports to India surged ahead, while EU markets held up well. Although apparel, spices, and gems & jewellery slipped back slightly, the broader export sector has clearly geared up for sustained growth in 2026.
Overall, Sri Lanka’s export industry is building up momentum and setting itself up for a strong year ahead.
