Sri Lanka apparel exports grow in September amid strategic shifts

Sri Lanka’s apparel exports recorded growth in September 2026, reaching US$ 416.99 million, a 3.47% increase compared to the same month in 2025. This growth was primarily driven by the United States and the European Union, with exports to the US rising 7.17% and the EU (excluding the UK) increasing 6.5%. However, exports to the UK fell by 5.92%.

Despite the monthly gain, the year-to-date performance remains cautious. Between January and September 2026, total apparel exports amounted to US$ 3,588.46 million, representing a 5.52% decline from the previous year. This cumulative shortfall is approximately US$ 210 million.

In a separate strategic development, Sri Lankan officials have engaged with Sweden’s textile innovation hub in Borås. Discussions with entities such as the Swedish School of Textiles and Science Park Borås aim to explore cooperation in sustainable production, advanced materials, and circular fashion to enhance the long-term competitiveness of Sri Lanka’s apparel sector.