National Export Development Plan Targets Global Markets: Minister Anil Jayantha

18-Jun-2026

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Sri Lanka is aiming for 7% economic growth as it continues to recover from the 2022 economic crisis, Industry Minister and Deputy Minister of Economic Planning Dr. Anil Jayantha said.

Speaking at the launch of the National Export Development Plan 2026-2030 in Colombo on June 17, he said government measures to stabilise the economy had helped achieve around 5% growth in 2025. However, sustaining long-term growth would require a stronger export sector.

He noted that Sri Lanka's export sector has remained largely unchanged since the 1990s and lacks sufficient diversification. The new plan focuses on expanding both products and export markets while integrating the country into global supply chains and technology-driven industries.

The Minister said Sri Lanka's greatest strength is its human capital. Through education reforms and skills development programmes, the country aims to build a competitive workforce capable of succeeding in international markets.

Digitalisation will also be promoted to reduce production costs and improve efficiency. Labour laws are expected to be modernised to create a more business-friendly environment, with a new labour bill likely to be introduced before the end of the year.

He emphasised that the plan is designed not only to boost export figures but also to ensure that economic benefits reach all citizens.