Apparel exports reached $479.14m in during the month, marking a 1.33% drop compared to the same period a year ago, according to the Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF).

Sri Lanka’s textile and apparel shipments to the US in the sector witnessed a slight increase of 0.92%, whereas exports to the EU and the UK recorded declines of 4.83% and 2.6%, respectively.

Exports to other international markets remained consistent with the previous year's data.

Despite this monthly downturn, the industry has shown resilience over the first eight months of 2025. Total exports surged by 7.48% to $3.39bn, up from $3.16bn during the corresponding period in 2024.

The EU market has been a significant driver of growth with a substantial increase of 14.66%. Additional positive contributions came from the US at 2.58%, the UK at 4.54%, and other global markets at 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.

Meanwhile, JAAF has reiterated its commitment to collaborate with policymakers and industry stakeholders to ensure that Sri Lanka's apparel industry remains stable and poised to take advantage of emerging opportunities amidst global uncertainties.

Last month, the UK Government unveiled the Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS), which adopts a more lenient stance on rules of origin and is anticipated to deliver substantial advantages to the textile and apparel industry.

Scheduled for introduction at the start of 2026, this scheme has been received positively by Sri Lanka’s JAAF.