Apparel exports in August down, up YoY

Saturday, 27 September 2025 01:31 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF) yesterday said export performance in August 2025 suffered a marginal decline compared to the same period last year, alongside a steady cumulative growth across the first eight months of the year.

Sri Lanka’s apparel exports in August 2025 stood at $ 479.14 million, reflecting a 1.33% year-on-year (YoY) decrease.

Exports to the US recorded a modest gain of 0.92%, while shipments to the EU and UK saw declines of 4.83% and 2.6%respectively. Exports to other destinations remained unchanged YoY.

Despite the August dip, JAAF said cumulative exports for the period January to August 2025 grew, by 7.48% to $ 3.39 billion, compared with $ 3.16 billion during the same period in 2024. This growth was underpinned by strong demand from the EU (excluding UK) saw the most significant growth at 14.66%, supported by gains in the US 2.58%, the UK 4.54% and other markets 9.45%.

The month of August reflects the volatility in global markets, with pressure on exports to the EU and UK. However, our year-to-date performance demonstrates resilience, particularly with strong growth into the EU. The industry continues to face challenges, but remains focused on competitiveness, diversification, and sustained engagement with key trading partners, JAAF said.

JAAF also reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with policymakers and stakeholders to ensure Sri Lanka’s apparel industry maintains stability and captures emerging opportunities in an uncertain global environment.