Sri Lanka’s export sector demonstrated remarkable resilience and steady progress during the first five months of 2025, with total exports reaching US$6,933.35 million, marking a robust 7.14% growth compared to the same period in 2024.
According to the Export Development Board (EDB), total exports, including both merchandise and services, reached US$1,386.66 million in May 2025. This shows an impressive year-on-year growth of 6.35% over May 2024, reflecting the resilience of Sri Lanka’s export sector and the positive impact of strategic efforts to diversify markets and enhance competitiveness.
In May 2025 alone, merchandise exports grew by 1.70 % year-on-year, reaching US$1,028.52 million, according to provisional data of Sri Lanka Customs, including the estimates for Gems & Jewellery and Petroleum Products. For the period January to May 2025, merchandise exports totalled US$5,344.23 million, reflecting a 5.46% increase compared to the same period in 2024.
Meanwhile, services exports have emerged as a key driver of overall export growth. In May 2025, earnings from services exports were estimated to be US$358.14 million. Over the first five months of the year, services exports are estimated to have increased by 13.20%, totalling US$1,589.12 million. This trend highlights the rising importance of Sri Lanka’s knowledge-based economy and its growing contribution to national export earnings.
The services export sector, comprising ICT/BPM, Construction, Financial services, and Transport & Logistics, continues to diversify Sri Lanka’s export portfolio and create high-value employment opportunities across the Island.