Sri Lanka’s export sector closed 2025 on a strong note, with total export earnings exceeding US$ 17.2 billion, according to a press release issued by the Export Development Board (EDB). The performance reflects steady growth in both merchandise and services exports amid improving global demand and sustained domestic production.
Based on Sri Lanka Customs data and estimated figures for Gems and Jewellery, Petroleum Products, and services, total export earnings reached US$ 17,252.15 million in 2025, marking a 5.6 per cent year-on-year increase. The EDB said the results demonstrate the resilience of the export sector and the impact of policy measures aimed at strengthening competitiveness and expanding access to international markets.
In December alone, total exports amounted to US$ 1,490.49 million, up 3.95 per cent compared to the same month in 2024. Merchandise exports recorded a 5.88 per cent year-on-year increase in December, reaching US$ 1,166.60 million, according to provisional Sri Lanka Customs data, including estimates for Gems and Jewellery and Petroleum Products.
For the full year, merchandise export earnings stood at US$ 13,579.38 million, reflecting a 6.32 per cent rise over 2024. Meanwhile, services exports, though showing a slight decline of 2.47 per cent in December to US$ 323.89 million, posted an estimated 2.79 per cent growth for the year, totaling US$ 3,672.77 million.
Commenting on the performance, EDB Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Mangala Wijesinghe said Sri Lanka had achieved over 94.79 per cent of its national export target for 2025. He attributed the outcome to the recovery of key export markets, sustained production capacity, and the effective implementation of export development strategies.
The EDB noted that services such as ICT/BPM, construction, financial services, and transport and logistics are playing an increasingly important role in diversifying the country’s export base. These sectors are also generating high-value employment and strengthening Sri Lanka’s transition toward a more knowledge-based economy.
With both traditional and emerging sectors contributing to growth, the EDB said Sri Lanka’s export performance in 2025 underscores the country’s improving position in global trade and its potential for further expansion in the years ahead.
