In December 2025, Sri Lanka’s apparel and textile exports rose by 5.43% year-on-year, totaling $447.21 million. This increase was propelled by higher shipments to key markets such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and the European Union.
Data from the Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF) indicates that these three destinations were pivotal in driving the monthly gains, offsetting a decline in shipments to other regions.
Exports to the U.S. rose by 6.49%, amounting to $178.29 million compared to December 2024. Shipments to the EU grew by 6.76%, reaching $141 million, while the UK saw a significant increase of 12.95%, totaling $55.12 million.
However, shipments to other markets declined by 4.06%, reaching $72.8 million. Overall, exports in December were $23.03 million higher than in the same month in the previous year.
For the complete year from January to December 2025, Sri Lanka’s total apparel and textile exports amounted to $5.02 billion, reflecting a 5.42% increase from the $4.76 billion recorded in 2024. This represents a year-on-year growth of $258.18 million. When fabric exports of $526.33 million are included, the total export value for the sector in 2025 reached $5.51 billion.
Throughout the twelve-month period, the EU demonstrated the strongest annual growth, with exports increasing by 12.48% to $1.58 billion from $1.40 billion in the prior year. Shipments to the U.S. climbed by 2.15%, reaching $1.95 billion, while exports to the UK were relatively stable at $679.66 million, a rise of 0.74% compared to the previous year. Shipments to other destinations increased by 4.80% to $815.78 million.
JAAF stated, “Closing the year above US$5.0 billion reflects the industry’s consistency across core markets, with the EU delivering the strongest momentum over the year. The December uplift in the UK and continued growth in the USA and EU are encouraging. At the same time, the dip in ‘other’ markets in December is a reminder that diversifying demand and strengthening non-traditional markets must remain a priority.
“These numbers also set the agenda for the months ahead. To sustain growth, the industry will stay focused on improving competitiveness, protecting delivery reliability, and expanding buyer confidence through consistent quality and responsible production. Strengthening access in new and emerging markets will be a key part of that effort.”