📈 Apparel Exports Decline 4.7% in April Amid Weak Major Market Demand

Sri Lanka’s apparel & textiles sector faced ongoing pressure in April 2026, driven by a slowdown in traditional Western markets, though non-traditional destinations showed resilience. Overall Figures • April 2026 earnings fell 4.72% YoY to US$ 328.15 Mn (from US$ 344.4 Mn). • Cumulative Jan-April 2026 exports declined 7.47% YoY to US$ 1.53 Bn, reflecting tough global demand. Traditional Market Breakdowns • US: Remained the largest market but dropped 3.46% YoY to US$ 117.67 Mn. • EU: Declined by 8.78% YoY to US$ 103.04 Mn. • UK: Saw the sharpest contraction, falling 16.91% YoY to US$ 44.82 Mn. Emerging Markets & Diversification • Non-traditional markets grew 12.61% YoY to US$ 62.62 Mn, signaling vital room for geographical diversification to reduce reliance on Western buyers. Industry Outlook & National Context • The Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF) notes that the industry’s long-term fundamentals remain strong. • As Sri Lanka’s largest merchandise export and a critical pillar for national employment and foreign exchange, JAAF stresses that achieving the US$ 5 Bn milestone requires coordinated national support. • Requested interventions include policy consistency, energy cost reforms, trade facilitation, and a faster shift into higher-value apparel products.