Sri Lanka’s Foreign Reserves Reach USD 6.8 Billion by End of 2025, Deputy Minister Confirms

Sri Lanka’s foreign reserves have risen to USD 6.8 billion as of December 31, 2025, Deputy Minister of Economic Development Nishantha Jayaweera announced in Parliament today. The statement came during a session where the Deputy Minister was responding to a query raised by MP Dayasiri Jayasekara regarding the country’s foreign currency holdings.

MP Jayasekara highlighted concerns over the nation’s reserves, noting that when the National People’s Power (NPP) government assumed office, the foreign reserves were around USD 6 billion and suggesting that the figure had since declined below that level.

Deputy Minister Jayaweera firmly rejected the claim, emphasizing that the reserves had, in fact, grown. “As of December 31, 2025, the foreign reserves of Sri Lanka have increased to USD 6.8 billion,” he stated, underscoring the government’s efforts to stabilize and strengthen the country’s economic position.

Economic analysts say that foreign reserves play a crucial role in maintaining a country’s financial stability, as they are used to support imports, manage external debt, and stabilize the national currency. An increase in reserves often reflects improved fiscal management, higher export revenues, or effective foreign investment inflows.

The Deputy Minister’s announcement is likely to reassure both international investors and the general public, as higher reserves indicate a buffer against external shocks and economic volatility.

It also reflects the government’s focus on enhancing foreign exchange stability and ensuring that essential imports, such as fuel, medicine, and food, are not disrupted.

Jayaweera called on Parliament to view the growth in reserves as a positive outcome of ongoing economic policies, which he said include boosting exports, attracting foreign investment, and managing government spending prudently.

With foreign reserves now at USD 6.8 billion, Sri Lanka is in a stronger position to navigate global economic challenges in 2026, analysts note, while maintaining confidence in the national currency and financial system.