JAAF welcomes Govt.’s stance on securing long-term access to EU market

Monday, 9 November 2026 05:39 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF) yesterday said it appreciates the Government’s commitment to submitting a fresh application for the EU’s Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+) scheme under the new 10-year trade framework.

“For Sri Lanka’s apparel industry, GSP+ is more than a tariff concession. It supports the competitiveness of our exporters in our largest market and sustains the livelihoods of hundreds of thousands of workers and their families. Continued access is vital to the industry and to the wider economy,” the JAAF said in a

statement.

The JAAF also welcomed the Government’s two-pronged approach: securing continued GSP+ benefits under the revised framework, while examining alternative arrangements that could offer more sustainable, long-term access to the European market. This balance of immediate protection and forward planning is what the sector needs, and it gives exporters and investors the confidence to plan ahead.

The JAAF recognises that Sri Lanka’s ability to complete the reapplication process and meet the updated eligibility and compliance requirements will be crucial to maintaining its preferential position in the EU in the years ahead. The industry stands ready to play its part.

“We will continue to uphold high standards of labour practice, environmental stewardship, and good governance, which are the values at the heart of the scheme and of our industry’s reputation with global buyers,” the JAAF said.

Apparel remains Sri Lanka’s largest export earner. In 2025, the sector’s exports crossed $ 5 billion, contributing about 32% of the country’s total export earnings of $ 17.25 billion and over half of its industrial exports. The EU, which takes up 24% of Sri Lanka’s merchandise exports, is central to this performance. Continued GSP+ access therefore matters greatly to the industry, its workforce, and the national economy.

“The JAAF looks forward to working closely with the Government and all relevant stakeholders to ensure a smooth and timely application, and to strengthening Sri Lanka’s long-term partnership with the EU,” it said.