📈 Sri Lanka Posts Record Export Earnings in April and Jan-Apr 2026

Sri Lanka’s export sector achieved its highest-ever April performance, with total earnings rising 6% YoY to US$ 1.38 Bn. Cumulative earnings for the first four months also hit a record high, growing 4.3% YoY to US$ 5.78 Bn, driven by strong agricultural and industrial demand despite global headwinds. • Overall Figures • April total exports: US$ 1.38 Bn (+6% YoY), though down 9.87% MoM. • April merchandise: US$ 1.06 Bn (+9.87% YoY). • April services: US$ 317.16 Mn (-6.13% YoY). • Jan-Apr total: US$ 5.78 Bn (+4.3% YoY). The EDB has revised its monthly growth forecast from 10% to above 8% due to external shocks. • Sector Breakdowns (Jan-Apr 2026) • Apparel & textiles: Remained the dominant contributor but fell 7.4% YoY to US$ 1.61 Bn due to lower demand in the US and EU. • Tea: Declined 5.58% YoY to US$ 451.58 Mn, impacted by Middle East tensions and rising shipping costs. • Coconut products: Surged 21.38% YoY to US$ 406.28 Mn, led by shell products (+55.85%). • Electrical & electronic components: Increased sharply by 43.55% YoY to US$ 185.54 Mn. • Food & beverages: Grew 30.62% YoY to US$ 237.70 Mn. • ICT/BPM: Showed strong services growth, rising 22.63% YoY to US$ 581.7 Mn. • Top Markets • US: Remained the top market (22% share) but cumulative exports dipped 2.09% YoY to US$ 945.76 Mn. • India: Consolidated its spot as the 2nd largest destination, growing 8.9% YoY to US$ 364.15 Mn. • UK: Fell 7.96% YoY to US$ 298.13 Mn. • Emerging growth recorded in China, France, Australia, Mexico, and Japan. _Note: Figures are based on data released by the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB)._