Sri Lanka, Jan. 29 -- Sri Lanka's apparel export sector recorded improved returns in 2025, but industry leaders caution that the performance is far from satisfactory, citing intensifying regional competition and mounting cost pressures.

The Export Development Board (EDB) announced that total apparel exports increased by 4.93 % year-on-year, rising from 5.05 billion US dollars in 2024 to 5.3 billion US dollars in 2025.

However, Yohan Lawrence, Secretary General of the Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF), said the figures were "not anything to be particularly happy about", especially when compared to growth achieved by regional rivals.

While Sri Lanka's exports to the United States - its largest export market - grew by around 6%, he n...