Sri Lanka’s apparel sector records 5.42% growth for January-November 2025: November slight dip

Sri Lanka’s apparel industry demonstrated a strong performance during the first eleven months of 2025, with cumulative exports reaching US$4,571.99 million. This marks a 5.42% increase compared to the same period last year, according to data released today by the Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF).

In November 2025, Sri Lanka’s total apparel exports amounted to US$367.60 million, showing a slight decrease of 1.96% from US$374.94 million in November 2024.

The monthly performance revealed mixed results across key markets: The United States saw exports of US$152.32 million, a rise of 5.79% from US$143.98 million. The European Union (excluding the UK) recorded US$119.61 million, up 3.35% from US$115.73 million. The United Kingdom experienced a decline, with exports at US$43.63 million, down 13.83% from US$50.63 million. Other markets also saw a decrease, with exports at US$52.04 million, down 19.44% from US$64.60 million.

Strong Cumulative Performance: January-November 2025

Despite the softness in November, cumulative apparel exports from January to November 2025 showed solid growth, reaching US$4,571.99 million, a 5.42% increase over the same period in 2024, which stood at US$4,336.84 million.

Year-to-Date Performance by Market:

• European Union (excluding UK): US$1,435.39 million (up 13.07%)
• Other Markets: US$742.98 million (up 5.75%)
• United States: US$1,769.08 million (up 1.73%)
• United Kingdom: US$624.54 million (down 0.22%)

Commenting on the export data, JAAF remarked, “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.”