Sri Lanka debt has crossed Rs. 30 trillion as the trade deficit reaches US$4.6 billion and import spending rises sharply.
Sri Lanka debt has exceeded Rs. 30 trillion as new Central Bank data warns of growing economic risks from a widening trade deficit, rising imports and renewed inflation pressure.
According to the Central Bank of Sri Lanka’s “Weekly Economic Indicators” report, several key sectors now show adverse developments. These trends point to fresh pressure on the country’s fragile recovery.
During the first five months of 2026, Sri Lanka’s trade deficit widened sharply to US$4,661 million. In the same period of 2025, the deficit stood at US$2,730 million.
Export income increased by only 7.6 percent. However, import expenditure rose by a steep 29.0 percent to US$10,420 million. This sharp import growth has become the main reason for the worsening external position.
Sri Lanka Debt Crosses Rs. 30 Trillion
By the end of March 2026, total central government debt had climbed to Rs. 30,193.18 billion, exceeding Rs. 30 trillion.
Of this amount, domestic debt stood at Rs. 18,762 billion. Foreign debt was recorded at Rs. 11,431 billion.
Meanwhile, during the period so far in 2026, the Sri Lankan rupee depreciated by 7.7 percent against the US dollar.
Although official foreign reserves stood at US$6,881 million by the end of May, rising import expenditure now creates a major challenge. Managing reserves while imports continue to climb will test the country’s economic stability in the months ahead.
