The Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF) has announced that Sri Lanka’s apparel exports recorded a modest year-on-year growth in September 2025, supported by stronger performance in the EU and other markets, despite declines in shipments to the United States and the United Kingdom. 

Issuing a statement, JAAF stated that whilst the numbers are down from last month, it warrants mentioning that September has historically been lower than August. 

In September 2025, total apparel exports amounted to US$ 403.01 million, reflecting a 1.58 per cent increase compared to US$ 396.73 million in September 2024. 

Exports to the USA and the UK declined by 4.71 per cent and 15.06 per cent respectively, while exports to the European Union rose by 10.75 per cent and shipments to other destinations grew by 19.49 per cent.

Despite mixed market trends during the month, the industry maintained steady progress over the first nine months of the year. Total apparel exports for the period January to September 2025 stood at US$ 3,798.25 million, marking a 6.83 per cent increase compared to US$ 3,555.54 million recorded during the same period in 2024.

Exports to the United States grew by 1.73 per cent to US$ 1,461.02 million, while the EU (excluding the UK) recorded a strong 14.24 per cent growth, reaching US$ 1,173.21 million. Exports to the United Kingdom rose by 2.31 per cent to US$ 533.73 million, and other markets expanded by 10.45 per cent to US$ 630.29 million.

“While demand from some traditional markets continues to fluctuate, our exporters have demonstrated remarkable adaptability through efficiency, innovation, and market diversification. The positive cumulative growth highlights the strength and competitiveness of Sri Lanka’s apparel sector even amid global headwinds,” JAAF said.

The Association reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the Government of Sri Lanka and industry stakeholders to ensure policy alignment, support small and medium manufacturers, and sustain the industry’s position as a reliable, ethical, and future-ready sourcing destination. (Newswire)

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Sri Lanka’s apparel exports in May 2025 remained relatively flat with a slight dip of 0.63% compared to the same month last year, totalling US$365.08 million, according to the Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF).

Issuing a statement, JAAF said that while shipments to the EU grew by 5.15% and exports to other markets rose sharply by 11.1%, this growth was offset by contractions in key markets. 

Exports to the USA and UK declined by 7.59% and 6.81% respectively, reflecting ongoing demand volatility in Western consumer markets.

Despite the dip in May, cumulative exports for the period January to May 2025 show a strong recovery trajectory, with total earnings increasing by 9.8% to reach US$2.02 billion. 

Exports to the EU (excluding the UK) saw the most significant growth at 15.36%, followed by 13.12% growth in non-traditional markets. Shipments to the USA and UK also recorded moderate gains of 6.52% and 3.74% respectively.

Commenting on the performance, JAAF says, “The industry’s year-to-date performance demonstrates resilience and adaptability, driven by strategic market shifts and continued investment in value-added products. We are encouraged by the momentum, particularly in emerging and EU markets.”

To sustain this progress, JAAF reiterates the importance of a stable and predictable trade policy environment that enables long-term competitiveness and supports exporters navigating global headwinds. (Newswire)

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