Sri Lanka’s Export Sector Shows Steady Growth in First Five Months of 2025

The upward trend was particularly evident in May 2025, with total export earnings from both merchandise and services amounting to USD 1,386.66 million, representing a 6.35% year-on-year growth from May 2024.

Merchandise exports in May 2025 rose by 1.70% year-on-year to USD 1,028.52 million, based on provisional data from Sri Lanka Customs. This figure includes estimated revenue from gems and jewelry, as well as mineral oil products. Cumulatively, merchandise exports for the first five months stood at USD 5,344.23 million, reflecting a 5.46% increase compared to the same period last year.

Meanwhile, service exports have emerged as a key driver of Sri Lanka’s export growth. In May 2025 alone, service export earnings totaled USD 358.14 million. For the January–May period, service exports surged by 13.20%, reaching USD 1,589.12 million. This impressive performance underscores the rapid development of Sri Lanka’s knowledge-based economy.

The service export sector—encompassing Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Business Process Management (BPM), construction, financial services, and transport and logistics—continues to reshape the country's export portfolio. It not only strengthens Sri Lanka’s international trade position but also contributes to high-value job creation across the island.

Analysts and industry stakeholders attribute this positive momentum to the implementation of strategic export promotion policies, market diversification efforts, and the growing global demand for digital and professional services.

As Sri Lanka continues to expand its presence in both traditional and emerging export markets, the country’s export sector appears well-positioned for sustained growth in the months ahead.