📈 Record Highs: Sri Lanka Workers' Remittances Hit Over US$ 4.6 Bn in 1H 2026

Sri Lanka’s workers' remittances reached historic levels in the first half of 2026 based on official data from the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL), providing essential support to external reserves and macroeconomic stability. • Overall Performance: Cumulative inflows for Jan-June 2026 rose by 23.2% YoY to over US$ 4.6 Bn, recording the strongest first-half performance in history. • June Inflow Trends: June inflows grew 9.3% YoY to US$ 695 Mn, marking the sixth consecutive month of robust growth. However, inflows registered an 18% month-on-month dip compared to May, making it the lowest monthly figure recorded so far in 2026. • National Context & Recovery: Remittances reinforce their position as Sri Lanka’s single largest and most reliable source of foreign exchange, especially as export earnings and tourism face external pressures. The 2026 momentum follows an all-time annual high in 2025 of US$ 8.07 Bn (up 23% YoY), reflecting a sustained post-crisis recovery since the 2022 low of US$ 3.78 Bn.