Over 140,000 Sri Lankans migrate for work amid male worker surge
Tuesday, 15 July 2025 - 8:36 pm
A total of 144,379 Sri Lankans have migrated overseas for employment between January and June 2025, with male workers making up a significantly higher proportion, the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE) said.
Of the total migrant workforce during this period, 88,684 were men, while 55,695 were women. The highest number of workers—38,806—departed in a single month during the period, highlighting continued demand for foreign employment opportunities.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) attracted 28,973 Sri Lankan workers, followed closely by Qatar with 21,958. While Middle Easte nations remain top destinations, officials noted a rising trend in migration to East Asian countries. Japan received 6,073 Sri Lankan workers, and South Korea welcomed 3,134.
In tandem with the rise in departures, foreign remittances have seen a notable increase. Sri Lankan migrant workers sent home US$ 3.73 billion during the first half of 2025, marking an 18.9% rise compared to the US$ 3.14 billion received during the same period last year. Remittances for June alone stood at US$ 635.7 million.
The SLBFE expressed confidence that remittances will surpass US$ 7 billion by the end of 2025, providing a crucial boost to the national economy.
