November remittances at US $ 673mn

• Brings 11-month tally to a record US $ 7.197bn

Sri Lankans working abroad remitted a solid US $ 673.4 million in November 2025, an increase from US $ 530.1 million recorded in the same month of the previous year. 

This performance signals that the country is on track to record its highest-ever annual remittance inflow this year. While the November inflows were slightly lower than US $ 712.0 million received in October 2025, such monthly volatility is considered normal.  Typically, towards the year-end, the expatriate workers repatriate larger portions of their earnings to support the families during the festive season as well as for the upcoming school term in January.

Analysts anticipate that the December inflows could surge even further. Beyond the usual seasonal trends, the migrant workers are expected to remit additional funds to support the families impacted by the floods that occurred two weeks ago.

With the inclusion of the November figures, Sri Lanka has now received a record US $ 7,197.1 million in the first 11 months of the year, marking a robust 20.1 percent growth compared to the corresponding period last year.

These record-high remittance flows provide a crucial cushion against the trade deficit, which has widened significantly this year compared to last. The surge in remittances correlates with the record number of Sri Lankans who have sought employment overseas since 2021, leaving the country in search of better economic prospects and financial stability.