EDB says exports gaining momentum; targets $ 20 b milestone

Saturday, 6 December 2025 02:01 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Sri Lanka’s export sector is showing renewed momentum with structural reforms, wider product development, and expanded support for small and medium exporters, the Export Development Board (EDB) informed the Committee on Ways and Means during its meeting in Parliament on 26 November 2025.

Presenting the latest sector overview, the EDB Chairman Mangala Wijesinghe noted that Sri Lanka’s exports had remained stagnant between $ 13–15 billion for nearly a decade.

However, recent policy reforms, revived advisory structures, and performance-based targets for industries and overseas missions are now driving a stronger growth trajectory.

Despite global economic uncertainty, the EDB stated that Sri Lanka is on course to surpass $ 16–17 billion in exports this year, one of the strongest performances in recent years. The Board emphasised that continued reforms, enhanced market access, and deeper collaboration between government and industry will be critical as the country advances toward its next milestone of $ 20 billion in export earnings.

Wijesinghe said the EDB is working across all districts to enhance product competitiveness and market access while providing more targeted assistance for SMEs, who represent 78% of exporters but contribute only a limited share to total export revenue. Strengthening their participation is considered a national priority, with regional development programs and improved support services set to significantly increase their contribution.

The meeting also revealed that Sri Lanka is preparing to host a major international industrial exhibition aimed at attracting high-value global buyers and investors. Officials expressed confidence that such initiatives would further elevate the country’s export presence.

Deputy Minister Prof. Ruwan Ranasinghe, along with MPs Sujeewa Senasinghe, K. Sujith Sanjaya Perera, Chathura Galappaththi, Dr. Sellaththamby Thilaganathan, Chaminda Hettiarachchi, Nishantha Jayaweera, Chandana Sooriyaarachchi, Thilina Samarakoon and EDB officials, took part in the discussions.