Sri Lanka to launch export plan targeting $ 36 billion by 2030
EconomyNext: Sri Lanka is set to launch its strategic export roadmap for the next five years with the primary objective to achieve an export revenue target of 36 billion dollars by 2030, the country’s export development board said.
The National Export Development Plan (NEDP) 2026–2030 was developed by the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) with technical assistance from the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
“The national plan is structured around two main pillars, the first of which is the Horizontals, which provide the essential foundational support required to drive growth across all priority sectors,” EDB said.
These include trade facilitation, trade finance and investment ecosystem development, trade promotion and market access, supply chain management and consolidation centre operations, and quality infrastructure, standards, and ESG compliance.
Skills development, innovation, and entrepreneurship are also under this pillar.
As the second pillar, 8 priority sectors, or Verticals, have been identified, targeting enhanced export diversification and value addition.
These are auto components, minerals-based industries, rubber-based industries, marine-based industries (including boat and shipbuilding), spices and concentrates, digital products and services, electrical and electronic components, and processed food and beverages.
The plan was developed after consultations and the participation of more than 300 contributors, including representatives from the public and private sectors, civil society organisations, and international partners, the EDB said.
OSL take:
Sri Lanka’s export sector is entering a new phase of expansion, presenting growing business/investment opportunities for foreign businesses/investors seeking access to emerging markets and globally connected supply chains. With the country targeting export earnings of US$ 36 billion by 2030 under its forthcoming five-year export roadmap, policymakers are focused on strengthening competitiveness, diversifying export products, and expanding international market access. The steady growth recorded by Sri Lankan exporters across sectors such as apparel, food and beverages, ICT services, manufacturing, rubber-based products, boat building, and value-added agriculture demonstrates the increasing commercial potential of the industry. As export-oriented businesses continue to expand operations and profitability, business/investment opportunities are emerging for foreign businesses/investors to establish joint ventures, manufacturing facilities, technology partnerships, and export-focused industrial operations. Sri Lanka’s strategic location at the heart of major Indian Ocean trade routes, combined with ongoing efforts to deepen trade relationships and secure greater market access through bilateral and regional partnerships, further enhances its appeal as an export hub. Foreign businesses/investors can benefit from access to skilled human capital, improving logistics infrastructure, and government initiatives aimed at supporting export-led growth. As the country advances its export development agenda, foreign businesses/investors that enter the market early stand to gain from participation in high-growth industries and a rapidly expanding export ecosystem positioned to serve global markets.