Sri Lanka’s apparel exports recorded weaker performance in April 2026, with shipments declining by 4.72 per cent year-on-year to $328.15 million from $344.40 million in April 2025, according to the Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF).

The decline was mainly driven by lower exports to major traditional markets. Apparel exports to the UK fell by 16.91 per cent during the month, while exports to the European Union (EU) declined by 8.78 per cent and shipments to the United States decreased by 3.46 per cent.

However, exports to other markets grew by 12.61 per cent in April, indicating opportunities for Sri Lanka to strengthen market diversification and reduce dependence on conventional destinations.

During the January-April 2026 period, Sri Lanka’s total apparel exports declined by 7.47 per cent year-on-year to $1.53 billion, reflecting continued pressure on demand across key global markets.

JAAF said the current performance underscores the need for Sri Lanka’s apparel sector to improve competitiveness, optimise cost structures, strengthen market access, and accelerate movement into higher-value product segments.

The industry body reaffirmed confidence in the long-term strength of Sri Lanka’s apparel industry but stressed that achieving future growth would require a coordinated national effort.

According to JAAF, policy consistency, energy cost reforms, trade facilitation, skills development, and stronger positioning in both traditional and emerging markets will be essential for the sector to move beyond current export levels and work towards surpassing the $5 billion export milestone.

JAAF also noted that the apparel industry remains one of Sri Lanka’s most important foreign exchange earners, and that its recovery and growth will play a crucial role in supporting the country’s broader export economy.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (KUL)