Sri Lanka’s total exports for the first 5 months of 2025 rose to US$ 6.93 billion, marking a 7.14% increase compared to the same period in 2024, according to the Export Development Board (EDB).

In May alone, total exports reached US$ 1.39 billion, a 6.35% year-on-year rise. Merchandise exports contributed US$ 1.03 billion, showing a modest growth of 1.70%, while services exports surged with a 13.20% increase during the January–May period, totaling US$ 1.59 billion.

Tea exports showed notable performance, climbing 14.58% to US$ 131.81 million in May. Exports to Iraq, Libya, and Iran recorded sharp increases. Meanwhile, diamonds, gems, and jewellery also saw a 5.53% growth.

However, earnings from apparel and textiles dipped slightly by 0.38%, while rubber-based exports and seafood exports declined by 9.33% and 22.11% respectively.