Sri Lanka’s Official Reserve Assets Fall 1.1% to US$6.85 Billion in September
COLOMBO, October 8, 2026 — Sri Lanka’s official reserve assets declined by 1.1% in September 2026, falling to US$6.851 billion from US$6.929 billion recorded in August, according to the latest data from the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL).
The latest figures represent a decline of approximately US$78 million month-on-month, indicating a modest reduction in the country’s official external reserve position during September.
Sri Lanka’s official reserve assets include proceeds under the People’s Bank of China (PBOC) swap arrangement, which form part of the reported reserve position.
However, the CBSL has highlighted that the usability of the funds associated with the swap arrangement is subject to the applicable conditionalities under the agreement. This distinction is important when assessing the portion of reported reserves that can be readily utilised for external payments and other balance-of-payments requirements.
Despite the monthly decline, the official reserve position remained above the US$6.8 billion level at the end of September, providing an important buffer for Sri Lanka’s external sector as the country continues to manage its foreign exchange requirements.
The movement in reserves remains a key indicator for assessing Sri Lanka’s external financial position, particularly in relation to import financing, foreign exchange liquidity and the country’s broader economic stabilisation process.
