Apparel exports rise in February despite declines in key markets

Monday, 24 March 2025 04:26 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Sri Lanka’s apparel industry posted a 2.3% export growth in February, reaching $ 407.93 million compared to the same period in 2024.

As per provisional data of the Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF), although overall numbers show an upward trend, performance varied across key markets such as the US and UK, which experienced significant declines.

Exports to the US dropped by 7.43%, amounting to $ 153.11 million, while shipments to the UK saw a sharper fall of 14.58%, bringing in

$ 54.85 million in February 2025.

In contrast, apparel exports to the European Union (excluding the UK) grew by 7.54%, reaching $ 120.69 million, while exports to other countries surged by 39.85%, totalling $ 79.28 million.

During the first two months of 2025, total apparel exports rose by 12% to $ 845 million, compared to the same period in 2024.

The US market recorded an 8.12% increase in total exports for January and February, amounting to $ 322.86 million, while exports to the EU (excluding the UK) grew by 17% to $ 250.18 million. Meanwhile, the UK market remained sluggish, with a slight decline of 0.21%, bringing total exports to $ 116.42 million for the two-month period.

Exports to other countries recorded the highest growth, rising 23.16% to $ 155.54 million from January to February 2025 compared to the same period in 2024.

Although overall apparel export figures reflect resilience, the decline in the US and UK markets highlights ongoing challenges, prompting industry stakeholders to explore alternative markets and strategies for sustained growth.

Exports to other countries recorded the highest growth, rising 23.16% to $ 155.54 million from January to February 2025 compared to the same period in 2024.

Last year, Sri Lanka’s export earnings from apparel reached $ 4.7 billion, recording a year-on-year growth of nearly 5%.

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