Minister of Development Strategies and International Trade Malik Samarawickrema has revised down the export target of 2019 to $ 18.5 billion from the initial $ 20 billion. During a seminar in Colombo this morning (02), Minister set the new target of $ 18.5 billion, which he expressed confidence in achieving despite multiple setbacks throughout the year. This was a downward revision from his earlier target of $ 20 billion which he expressed confidence in achieving as recently as July with the export earnings in the first 6 months of 2019 surpassing US$ 8 billion. “The target set for 2019 is to achieve US $ 20 billion exports which I’m confident, with the Public and Private Collaboration and strong commitment, is possible. My Ministry is totally committed towards working closely with the relevant Ministries, Departments, Chambers and Associations,” he said, addressing an event held at the Export Development Board (EDB) on 23^rd July. However, EDB Chairman Indira Malwatte at the same event stated that US$ 18.5 billion was a more realistic revenue target for the year based on the performance in the first half of the year. From January to June 2019 Sri Lanka earned revenue of US$ 8.45 billion, a growth of 11.4% from US$ 7,588.4 earned during the corresponding period in 2018. For the first time, over US$ 1 billion monthly merchandise export earnings were recorded in three months during the first half of 2019, specifically in January with US$ 1,030 Mn, in March with US$ 1,137 Mn. and June with US$ 1,099.3 Mn. He said the ultimate objective is to increase the country’s exports to US $ 28 billion by the year 2022. The Export Sector contributed approximately 18% to the Gross Domestic Product [GDP] of the country in 2018.