By: Staff Writer
May 27, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s export sector posted strong growth in the first four months of 2025, with total earnings reaching $5.58 billion, a 6.9% increase compared to the same period last year, according to the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB). This growth reflects the sector’s resilience, strategic diversification, and adaptability in a dynamic global trade environment.
In April 2025, total exports—comprising both merchandise and services—stood at $1.29 billion, up 8.74% year-on-year (YoY). Merchandise exports alone surged 12.05% YoY to $983.3 million, driven by higher earnings from key product categories, while services exports were estimated at $309.3 million, reflecting a 7.06% rise over April 2024.
EDB Chairman and CEO Mangala Wijesinghe credited the growth to continued efforts to improve market access and strengthen competitiveness, noting Sri Lankan exporters’ ability to adapt to shifting global market conditions.
Sectoral Highlights:
Apparel and Textiles: Export earnings jumped 13.52% YoY in April to $364.5 million. Cumulative earnings reached $1.49 billion from January to April, with exports to the US and UK up 10.25% and 6.41%, respectively.
Tea: Earnings increased 12.45% to $107.3 million in April, mainly driven by a 27.6% rise in Tea Packet exports. Notable growth in exports to Iraq (46.7%), Libya (292.3%), and Iran (115.96%) was recorded.
Coconut-Based Products: Earnings soared 21.54% YoY in April, with significant increases across sub-categories such as Coconut Kernel Products (36.23%) and Fibre Products (49.66%). Cumulative earnings rose 25.3% to $331.3 million in the four-month period.
Spices and Essential Oils: April earnings rose 32.83% to $23.95 million, with strong performances from Pepper (185.77%) and Cloves (106.98%). Year-to-date growth stood at 63.44%.Food and Beverages: Up 34.53% in April to $43.5 million, boosted by Processed Food exports, which rose 77.5%.
Boat Building: Noteworthy growth in April earnings to $15.05 million, driven by a large shipment to Norway.ICT/BPM and Logistics: ICT/BPM services brought in an estimated $492.7 million (up 4.91%), while Logistics and Transport services grew 20.69% to $648.7 million in the first four months.
However, not all sectors performed equally well. Rubber and Rubber Finished Products fell 6.74% YoY to $312.4 million, and Seafood exports declined 17.34% to $74.96 million. Electrical and Electronic Components also saw a 6.29% drop in earnings.
Despite these setbacks, Sri Lanka’s export sector shows strong signs of momentum in 2025, led by diversified industries and sustained global demand across key markets.
