Sri Lanka’s apparel exports rose by 9.84% in July 2025, reaching US$ 455.16 million compared with US$ 414.38 million in July 2024. The European Union (excluding the UK) was the strongest-performing market with a 26.69% increase, while exports to “Other” destinations climbed by 24.24%. The UK market recorded a marginal gain of 0.72%, while shipments to the USA fell by 2.7%.

For the cumulative period from January to July 2025, total apparel exports amounted to US$ 2,916.10 million, up 9.09% from US$ 2,673.19 million in the same period of 2024. Growth was seen across all major regions, with exports to the EU (excluding the UK) up 18.2%, to “Other” markets by 11.02%, to the UK by 5.65%, and to the USA by 2.91%.

A spokesperson for the Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF) said: “The growth seen in July and over the first seven months of 2025 highlights the adaptability of Sri Lanka’s apparel industry and its firm position in key markets such as the EU. This performance reflects manufacturers’ ongoing efforts to meet buyer expectations on speed, quality, and compliance. Sustaining momentum will require expanded trade opportunities, supportive policies, and a stronger focus on value addition across the supply chain.”

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