Sri Lanka’s goods and services exports expanded by more than 18 percent in May 2026, reaching US$ 1.57 billion, according to data from the Export Development Board (EDB).
The robust growth rate marks a significant acceleration in the country’s external sector, suggesting that demand for Sri Lankan products is recovering strongly after a period of economic volatility.
In neighboring Thailand, exports also posted double-digit growth in May, while Malaysia reported a record trade surplus for the first five months of 2026.
The surge in export revenue provides a positive signal for the island’s balance of payments and foreign currency reserves, which have been critical focus areas for policymakers and investors following the nation’s recent economic restructuring.
A sustained uptick in export earnings can help stabilize the rupee and reduce reliance on external borrowing, offering some relief to domestic liquidity conditions.
This development mirrors a broader regional trend of export resilience.
In neighboring Thailand, exports also posted double-digit growth in May, while Malaysia reported a record trade surplus for the first five months of 2026.