The Sri Lankan rupee has depreciated by approximately 8% against the US dollar so far in 2026, according to the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL).
Central Bank data shows that at the close of trading on Friday (26), the buying rate for one US dollar stood at Rs. 332.22, while the selling rate was quoted at Rs. 341.87.
Despite the weakening of the rupee, Central Bank Governor Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe has stressed that the current depreciation differs significantly from the sharp currency collapse experienced in 2022.
Speaking last month, the Governor explained that the ongoing decline in the rupee is largely being driven by global economic conditions rather than domestic economic instability.
He noted that during March and April 2022, while many regional currencies remained relatively stable, the Sri Lankan rupee plunged to around Rs. 370 per US dollar due to internal economic factors.
The Governor’s remarks suggest that the current exchange rate movement reflects broader international market trends rather than the structural economic pressures that led to Sri Lanka’s currency crisis in 2022.
Exchange rate fluctuations remain closely monitored by businesses, investors and consumers due to their impact on import costs, exports and the overall economy.
