Despite Sri Lankan apparel exports seeing a 13.83% decline in export earnings to the UK and a 19.44% decline in earnings in “other markets” during November, cumulative export earnings saw a 5.42% increase over the same period last year, data released today by the Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF) said.
The data noted that earnings from the United Kingdom decreased to $ 43.63 million in November, from $ 50.63 million, and “other markets”, which exclude the main export destinations in the Western Hemisphere, decreased to $ 52.04 million, from $ 64.60 million.
“Sri Lanka’s apparel industry delivered a robust performance during the first eleven months of this year, with cumulative exports reaching $ 4,571.99 million, marking a 5.42% increase over the same period last year,” a statement released by the body said.
Meanwhile, Sri Lanka’s total apparel exports for November saw a slight decrease of 1.96% with $ 367.60 million in earnings, compared to the $ 374.94 million earned in November 2024.
The monthly performance showed mixed results across key markets: United States: $ 152.32 million (up 5.79% from $ 143.98 million), European Union (excluding UK): $ 119.61 million (up 3.35% from $ 115.73 million), United Kingdom: $ 43.63 million (down 13.83% from $ 50.63 million), other markets: $ 52.04 million (down 19.44% from $ 64.60 million).
Commenting on the export data, JAAF stated: “The 5.42% growth in our cumulative exports for the first eleven months of 2025 reflects the resilience and adaptability of Sri Lanka’s apparel sector in navigating a challenging global environment. While we experienced a modest 1.96% decline in November, this should be viewed within the broader context of our strong year-to-date performance.
“Particularly encouraging is our 13.07% growth in the European Union market, which demonstrates the success of our strategic focus on strengthening relationships with EU buyers and meeting their increasingly stringent sustainability and compliance requirements. Similarly, our continued growth in the US market, despite tighter margins, shows that Sri Lankan manufacturers remain competitive on quality, delivery, and ethical manufacturing standards.”