US envoy underscores apparel industry’s role in boosting Sri Lanka-US trade ties

US Ambassador Julie J. Chung - Pic by Lasantha Kumara

•  Highlights apparel industry as a key driver of economic growth 
• Praises industry’s resilience, creativity and global impact
• Says US apparel market projected to generate $ 365 b in 2025, offers opportunities for investment and expansion 
• Asserts US is open for business, look forward to welcoming more ventures and investments 
• Cites Nike and MAS Holdings partnership as success story, urging firms to leverage ethical production and innovation for competitiveness 
• Stresses importance of transparency, good governance and fair investment policies to attract foreign investors 
• Reaffirms US commitment to supporting apparel industry

By Charumini de Silva 

US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung on Monday said the apparel industry, a sector that accounts for nearly half of the country’s export revenue, remains a key driver of economic growth and a cornerstone of Sri Lanka-US trade ties. 

Speaking at the 42nd Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Sri Lanka Apparel Exporters Association (SLAEA), she underscored the industry’s resilience, creativity and global impact, while encouraging deeper investment and collaboration with the US market.

Chung congratulated Rajitha Jayasuriya on becoming the first woman chair of the SLAEA, highlighting the sector’s growing emphasis on inclusivity and innovation. 

“The apparel industry not only shapes global consumer trends, but also fuels economic expansion, job creation and cross-border partnerships,” she remarked, acknowledging the industry’s significance beyond just exports. 

Noting that President Trump took office and outlined a clear set of priorities to make America safer, stronger, and more prosperous, she said the US apparel manufacturing is projected to generate $ 365 billion in revenue in 2025 while employing 83,000 Americans. 

“I want to really underscore that the United States is open for business, and we look forward to welcoming even more business and investments in the coming years,” she stated, adding that the US apparel manufacturing is vibrant and diverse and has shown remarkable strength and continuous growth in the last several years. 

Ambassador Chung said the US market is not only one of the largest and most lucrative in the world, but it also provides unparalleled access to advanced technology, skilled labour and a robust infrastructure that can significantly enhance your own production capabilities. 

She added that by establishing operations in the US, Sri Lankan companies can benefit from reduced shipping times, lower tariffs and the ability to respond swiftly to market demands. “Investing in the US is not just a strategic business move — it is a step toward building a more resilient and competitive future for your companies in the global marketplace,” she stressed.

Drawing parallels between Sri Lanka’s apparel industry and global success stories, Chung references Nike and MAS Holdings — two companies that have transformed humble beginnings into billion-dollar enterprises.

She outlined how Nike’s journey from selling shoes out of a car trunk in 1964 to becoming a $ 100 billion global giant reflects the power of determination and innovation, qualities she sees in Sri Lanka’s apparel sector. 

The Ambassador also paid tribute to Martin Trust, a US entrepreneur credited with introducing advanced manufacturing techniques to Sri Lanka in the 1980s. She acknowledged that Trust played a key role in MAS Holdings global expansion with the company now investing back into the US through its Cetwick Product Development Hub in North Carolina. 

“These success stories remind us that the apparel industry thrives on creativity, resilience and strategic vision,” she states, calling on Sri Lankan firms to leverage their strengths in ethical production and innovation to maintain a competitive edge in global markets.

“You all are an important part of the foundation on which Sri Lanka’s growth depends. In a world that is changing rapidly, I know that the road ahead will undoubtedly present some unique challenges and opportunities – all twists and turns that I trust you all will approach with the same tenacity, creativity and commitment to innovation,” she added.

As the Government redefines its trade and investment strategies, Chung emphasised that transparency, good governance and a level playing field for investors will be key to attracting foreign investors. 

“A clean and transparent procurement process, a level playing field for all investors, and the honouring of contracts will be watched keenly by foreign investors. The ability of the private sector to drive growth, unhindered by red tape and excessive regulation, is crucial for fostering economic progress and will be a key factor in the months ahead,” she added. 

The Ambassador reaffirmed the US’s commitment to supporting Sri Lanka’s apparel sector. “The US remains a friend and partner in Sri Lanka’s journey. Together, we can drive economic growth in both of our countries while setting new standards for excellence on the global stage,” she added.