Sri Lanka’s apparel and made-up articles exports declined 0.05% last month compared to October 2024. Credit: Leon Concept/Shutterstock.com.

Sri Lanka’s October shipments to the US and UK fell by 1.92% and 11.99% respectively, compared to the same period last year. These figures are based on data from the Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF), the apex body of Sri Lanka’s apparel industry.

Exports to other markets outside of the EU dropped by 9.84% year-over-year.

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In October 2025, exports to the EU rose by 12.53% compared to the same month in the previous year.

Overall, Sri Lanka’s apparel and made-up articles exports decreased by 0.05% in October 2025 versus October 2024.

From January to October 2025, total Sri Lanka apparel exports grew by 6.12% year-on-year.

During this period, exports to the EU increased by 14.05% compared with the same time last year.

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Exports to the US rose by 1.37%, while those to the UK and other destinations grew by 0.98% and 8.31%, respectively, over the corresponding period in 2024.

JAAF said: “Sri Lanka’s apparel sector continues to hold steady despite challenging global conditions. The strong growth in EU markets and the positive cumulative performance reflect the industry’s resilience, ongoing investments in competitiveness, and our commitment to meeting the needs of international buyers. Sustained market diversification and consistent policy support will be essential as we work to build on this momentum in the months ahead.”

In September 2025, the country’s apparel exports registered a year-on-year increase of 1.58%, reaching just over $403m.

Last month, JAAF urged the Sri Lankan government to delay removing the simplified value added tax (SVAT) system until effective VAT refund mechanisms are implemented, emphasising that a smooth transition is important for supporting exporters in the apparel sector.

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