Exports hit all-time high of $ 8.3 b in 1H, post strongest June on record

1H merchandise exports up 5.86% YoY to $ 6.5 b, services by 9.78% to $ 1.83 b

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DESPITE global uncertainties, Sri Lanka's export sector continues to show strong recovery and resilience, recording an all-time high of $ 8.3 billion in total exports during the first half of 2025—a 6.7% year-on-year (YoY) growth—alongside the strongest performance recorded for the month of June.

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.

"This is the highest export performance ever recorded for both the month of June and first half of the year," EDB Chairman and CEO Mangala Wijesinghe said, commending the export community for their remarkable resilience and adaptability in global markets.

June 2025 marked a notable performance, with total exports, including both merchandise and services, climbing to over $ 1.46 billion, registering a significant 8.73% YoY increase and a 5.79% rise compared to May 2025, reflecting the resilience of Sri Lanka's export sector and the positive impact of strategic efforts to diversify markets and enhance competitiveness.

This was also the first time that June recorded the highest revenue during the month and the highest cumulative during the first half.

Merchandise exports for June 2025 reached over $ 1.15 billion a 6.85% YoY increase, including estimated earnings from key sectors such as gems and jewellery and petroleum products.

During the period from January to June, merchandise exports for the first half of 2025 amounted to over $ 6.5 billion, reflecting a 5.86% growth compared to the same period last year.

Services exports in June 2025 are estimated at $ 309.61 million, up 22.39% YoY. During the first half of 2025, services exports reached an estimated $ 1.83 billion-a robust 9.78% increase over the same period in 2024.