By: Staff Writer
December 02, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s apparel industry continues to demonstrate steady performance despite challenging global conditions, according to the Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF). Exports of apparel and made-up articles for January to October 2025 grew by 6.12% year-on-year (YoY), maintaining a positive trajectory despite weaker monthly results in October.
October 2025 saw a marginal 0.05% decline compared with the same month last year, reflecting uneven demand across key international markets. Exports to the European Union rose 12.53%, underscoring robust demand in the region. Conversely, shipments to the United States fell by 1.92%, the United Kingdom by 11.99%, and other markets by 9.84%. While these declines indicate volatility, they were an improvement over September, when US exports had dropped 4.71% and UK shipments fell 15.06%.
Cumulative figures for the first ten months indicate sustained growth in key markets: US exports rose 1.37%, EU shipments surged 14.05%, UK exports inched up 0.98%, and other destinations recorded an 8.31% increase compared with 2024. JAAF highlighted that the apparel sector’s resilience is largely driven by strong EU demand, continued investment in competitiveness, and the ability to adapt to changing market conditions.
Industry analysts note that global uncertainties, including rising costs, currency fluctuations, and shifting consumer preferences, continue to impact Sri Lanka’s apparel exports. The slowdown in traditional markets such as the US and UK suggests that sustained market diversification will be crucial. JAAF emphasized the importance of consistent policy support and strategic initiatives to maintain growth momentum, particularly as the sector navigates pressures from international competition and geopolitical disruptions.
The apparel industry remains a cornerstone of Sri Lanka’s economy, providing significant employment and contributing to foreign exchange earnings. Experts argue that leveraging technology, improving supply chain efficiency, and expanding into emerging markets could further strengthen the sector. Despite temporary setbacks in certain destinations, the consistent performance in the EU demonstrates the industry’s adaptability and potential to recover from short-term volatility.
As Sri Lanka’s apparel exporters continue to navigate complex global trade dynamics, the sector’s steady growth underscores its resilience and the need for proactive strategies to sustain competitiveness, diversify markets, and safeguard long-term industry sustainability
