Exports exceed $ 11.5 b in first eight months

SRI Lanka’s export sector continues to show strong resilience, registering over $ 11.54 billion in total exports during the first eight months of 2025, a 6.61% year-on-year (YoY) growth, alongside the strongest performance recorded for the month of August.

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The latest figures, released by the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB), underscore a steady upward trajectory in both merchandise and services exports, despite growing competitiveness and uncertainties in the global markets.

SRI Lanka’s tea export earnings in the first eight months of 2025 has reached its highest level since 2014, according to Customs data analysed by Asia Siyaka Research.

"This encouraging growth highlights Sri Lanka's increasing integration into global trade and the success of our continued efforts to strengthen export competitiveness, while diversifying market opportunities. Our exporters have once again proven their resilience and adaptability in navigating evolving global challenges," EDB Chairman and CEO Mangala Wijesinghe said.

Noting that total exports exceeded $1.6 billion in August alone, with cumulative earnings to over $11.6 billion during the first eight months of 2025, he said these results reflect the strength, determination, and innovation of our exporters despite global uncertainties.

"While we celebrate this progress, we remain mindful of the challenges ahead. With sustained efforts to enhance competitiveness and expand market opportunities, we are confident of reaching the export target set for 2025," Wijesinghe added.

August 2025 marked a notable performance, with total exports, including both merchandise and services, climbing to over $1.6 billion, registering a 2.57% YoY increase.

However, it shows a 2.5% decline compared to July 2025, reflecting the challenges of Sri Lanka's export sector and the impact of uncertainties in markets and enhanced competitiveness.

This was the first time that August recorded the highest revenue during the month and the highest cumulative during the first eight months.