Sri Lanka’s corporate sector is regaining momentum in 2025, buoyed by a strong resurgence in exports and a thriving technology industry. Key data from the Export Development Board (EDB) highlights a 7.14% year-on-year rise in total exports during the first five months of 2025, reaching US$ 6.93 billion—a notable improvement from the US$ 6.47 billion recorded in the same period last year.
This growth is driven by both merchandise and service exports, with the latter contributing significantly to the upward trend. Merchandise exports saw a 5.46% increase, totaling US$ 5.34 billion, while service exports surged by 13.2% to US$ 1.59 billion between January and May.
Sectors such as spices, food and beverages, electrical components, and coconut-based products have played a major role in this export performance. Notably, export-oriented companies producing coconut kernel and fibre products—such as coconut oil, milk powder, cream, coco peat, and fibre pith—posted strong gains. The apparel sector also showed signs of a robust recovery, with exports to the European Union (excluding the UK) growing by an impressive 27.04%.
Among the standout performers in the corporate space are Teejay Lanka PLC and Hayleys PLC. Teejay, a major textile exporter, is poised to benefit from expanded trade agreements and improved export facilitation, while Hayleys continues to maintain a strong presence across sectors like activated carbon, textiles, and rubber. Ex-Pack Corrugated Cartons PLC, which supports packaging for export goods, and Kelani Tyres PLC, a rubber-based manufacturer, also recorded improved performance amid rising global demand.
Adding to this optimistic outlook is renewed investor confidence, particularly among Japanese companies operating in Sri Lanka. A majority of these firms expect profit growth in 2025, reflecting an improved economic environment and growing business confidence.
Meanwhile, the technology sector continues to thrive, not only in performance but also in workplace satisfaction. According to a recent study by Great Place to Work, the top 10 companies in Sri Lanka’s tech industry reported an average 91% positive employee perception. These companies include Adapt Information Technologies, Altrium Ltd., BoardPAC, Dijital Team, EGUARDIAN Lanka, Huawei Technologies Lanka, ITX360, Stelacom, SYNERGEN Health, and SYNERGEN Technology Labs.
The EDB expects the manufacturing sector, particularly textiles and garments, to lead the industrial recovery, supported by a rise in new orders. Overall, the corporate outlook for 2025 remains positive, as exports and tech continue to be key drivers of economic resurgence.
