SriLanka, Oct. 4 -- Sri Lanka spent USD 4,072.1 million on fuel imports during the first eight months of 2026, marking a 61.6% increase compared to the corresponding period last year, according to the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL).

The country spent USD 2,520.6 million on fuel imports from January to August 2025. Accordingly, fuel import expenditure increased by USD 1,551.5 million during the first eight months of this year.

Meanwhile, fuel import expenditure in August 2026 alone rose to USD 450.6 million, up 76.5% from USD 255.2 million recorded in August 2025.

This represents an increase of USD 195.4 million compared to the corresponding month last year.

In addition, Sri Lanka spent USD 321.9 million on refined petroleum imports ...