Deputy Minister of Finance Anil Jayantha Fernando told Parliament that the government is confident of achieving its target of USD 9 billion in foreign
reserves by the end of 2026, driven by the positive trend in foreign remittances.
He noted that in the first seven months of this year, Sri Lankan migrant workers had remitted more than USD 5 billion, underscoring the crucial role of overseas employment in strengthening the country’s external finances.
Responding to a question raised by MP Ravi Karunanayake in Parliament yesterday, the Deputy Minister stressed that the government is focusing on increasing net foreign exchange inflows through investments, exports, and remittances.
He added that measures are underway to diversify foreign exchange sources and attract greater Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), particularly in view of the large foreign debt repayments due in 2028.
Fernando further explained that Sri Lanka faces repayments of about USD 3.9 billion in April 2028, and financial strategies are being prepared to boost foreign income through non‑traditional sectors.
He said plans are also in place to direct Sri Lankan workers towards areas in the international labour market where higher earnings can be secured.
The Deputy Minister said that these measures are designed to ensure the country can meet future debt obligations while building a more resilient and diversified external sector.
