External sector performance in the first half of 2024 remained positive, with higher inflows in the form of workers’ remittances and earnings from tourism, despite a slightly higher trade deficit.
Merchandise trade deficit ( Y-o-Y ) widened in June 2024, although it narrowed compared to May 2024.
Services sector inflows (excluding tourist earnings) amounted to USD 1,762 mn during Jan-Jun 2024 compared to USD 1,561 mn during the same period in 2023.
Workers’ Remittances increased to USD 3,144 mn in Jan-Jun 2024 compared to USD 2,823 mn in the corresponding period in 2023.
Tourist Earnings amounted to USD 1,557 mn during Jan-Jun 2024 compared to USD 875 mn during Jan-Jun 2023.
Foreign investment outflows from the government securities market continued in June 2024.
Gross Official Reserves stood at USD 5.7 bn at end June 2024.
The Sri Lanka rupee remained appreciated against the US dollar during the year up to end June 2024.
Foreign investments in CSE recorded a net inflow during Jan-Jun 2024