Cumulative export earnings record strong growth in 1H-2026

Cumulative export earnings from several key sectors recorded strong growth during the first half of 2026, with coconut-based products, rubber-based products, processed food & beverages, electrical & electronic components, and seafood recording year-on-year increases of 14.59%, 5.24%, 24.45%, 123.48%, and 17.61%, respectively, compared to the corresponding period in 2025.

The broad-based growth across these sectors highlights the resilience of Sri Lanka’s export industries, supported by rising demand for value-added products and improved competitiveness in international markets. Export earnings from coconut-based Products increased significantly by 14.59% year-on-year to reach US$ 614.93 million during the first half of 2026, supported by broad-based growth across all major product categories, including Coconut Kernel-based Products (4.57%), Fibre-based Products (12.45%), and Shell-based Products (50.74%). The strong performance was driven by increased exports of products such as coconut oil (15.19%), desiccated coconut (12.81%), liquid coconut milk (4.33%), and activated carbon (44.59%), reflecting sustained global demand and enhanced value addition within the sector.

The rubber and rubber-based products sector generated export earnings of  US$ 492.32 million, recording a 5.24% year-on-year growth, mainly supported by improved performance in pneumatic and retreaded rubber tyres and tubes, which increased by 6.49% during the period. The positive performance reflects the continued competitiveness of Sri Lanka’s rubber-based manufacturing sector in global markets. Export earnings from the food  beverages sector increased by 24.45% year-on-year to reach US$ 347.13 million during January–June 2026, primarily driven by the strong performance of processed food exports, which grew by 44.07% to reach US$ 164.61 Mn. This growth highlights the rising international demand for Sri Lanka’s value-added food products.

Meanwhile, exports of Electrical and Electronic Components (EEC) recorded exceptional growth, increasing by 123.48% to reach US$ 450.20 million during the first half of 2026. This performance was supported by significant growth in key product categories, including electrical transformers (36.99%), insulated wires and cables (72.91%), and switches, boards and panels (19.18%). In addition, exports of boilers, piston engines, pumps and vacuum pumps increased substantially, reaching US$ 171.39 Mn during January–June 2026. Seafood exports also recorded a positive performance, increasing by 17.61% to reach US$ 122.51 million, supported by higher exports of Frozen Fish (7.60%) and Fresh Fish (50.06%).

The growth reflects improved export volumes and strengthening demand in international markets.

Source: Daily News