25/05/2026
Sri Lanka’s export landscape is evolving.
For years, tea and apparel stood at the center of the country’s global trade identity. While those industries continue to play a major role, technology and service-based exports are now becoming a powerful part of Sri Lanka’s economic story.
According to the Export Development Board, Sri Lanka recorded US$ 5.78 billion in exports during the first four months of 2026, reflecting a 4.3% increase compared to the same period last year. Apparel and textiles remained the country’s leading export sector, generating US$ 1.62 billion in revenue.
However, the most notable momentum is coming from the ICT/BPM sector. In April 2026, ICT/BPM exports reached US$ 146.09 million, overtaking tea exports, which stood at US$ 100.02 million during the same month.
At a time when traditional sectors such as apparel and tea experienced declines in April, technology-driven and service industries showed strong growth. Electrical and electronic component exports increased by 41.51% year-on-year, while financial services exports surged by 119.41%.
The direction is becoming clear. Sri Lanka is gradually transforming beyond its traditional export identity and positioning itself as a rising hub for technology, innovation, and global services — backed by skilled talent, engineering expertise, and growing international demand.
