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Sri Lanka Sets New Record with 312,836 Migrant Workers in 2024

The year 2024 has marked a historic milestone for Sri Lanka, with 312,836 individuals migrating for overseas employment—the highest annual figure ever recorded. This surpasses the previous peak set in 2022, reflecting a significant trend in labor migration in recent years.

Migration Statistics:

  • Total Migrants (2019–2024): 1.3 million Sri Lankans pursued employment abroad during this period.
  • 2024 Breakdown:
    • Male Workers: 185,162
    • Female Workers: 127,674

Top Destinations in 2024:

  1. Kuwait: 77,546 workers
  2. United Arab Emirates: 51,550 workers
  3. South Korea: 7,098 workers
  4. Israel: 9,665 workers
  5. Japan: 8,665 workers

The growing preference for employment in countries like South Korea, Israel, and Japan demonstrates a shift in destination trends, as highlighted by the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment.

Economic Impact:

By November 2024, remittances from Sri Lankan expatriates reached USD 6,462 million, showcasing the vital contribution of migrant workers to the national economy.

Comparison with 2023:

In 2023, 297,584 Sri Lankans sought overseas employment:

  • Male Workers: 164,680
  • Female Workers: 132,904

The continued rise in labor migration underscores its growing importance to Sri Lanka’s economic resilience and foreign exchange earnings.

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