The Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF), Sri Lanka’s leading apparel industry body, has thrown its full support behind the government’s efforts to secure more equitable tariff terms in ongoing trade discussions with the United States, calling the move a “positive development” for the country’s export-driven economy.
The Sri Lankan Government is currently engaged in high-level talks with the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) in Washington D.C., with the aim of improving market access and securing fairer, reciprocal trade conditions. JAAF applauded the government’s commitment to addressing trade barriers and positioning the apparel sector to remain globally competitive.
Representing key segments of the country’s textile and apparel industry—including the Sri Lanka Apparel Exporters Association and the Fabric and Apparel Accessory Manufacturers Association—JAAF underscored the importance of the US as a longstanding and vital trading partner. The apparel sector, a pillar of the Sri Lankan economy, directly employs over 350,000 workers and supports approximately 700,000 more through indirect jobs.
“We remain confident that Sri Lanka’s value proposition as a responsible sourcing destination is both credible and competitive. We look forward to continued dialogue between the two governments and express our full support for a future-oriented agreement that will enhance trade, attract investment, and contribute to shared prosperity,” JAAF stated.
JAAF has been particularly vocal following the US’ imposition of a 44% tariff on certain imported goods, which has affected parts of Sri Lanka’s fashion export industry. In response, a joint working group was established earlier this month to assess the impact of these duties and explore strategic responses.
Despite these challenges, Sri Lanka’s apparel export performance has shown resilience. Provisional data from JAAF indicates that shipments surged by 11.65% in March, reaching $467 million, and first-quarter exports rose by 11.7% to hit $1.3 billion. Exports to the US alone grew by 16.5% in March to $172 million, while first-quarter exports to the US increased by 11% to $494.6 million.
This rebound is especially noteworthy after February’s 7.4% decline in shipments, which totaled $153 million. The March growth signals strong recovery and underscores the importance of securing favorable trade terms to sustain momentum.
JAAF reiterated that Sri Lanka’s apparel industry adheres to globally recognized standards of sustainability, transparency, and ethical manufacturing, calling for such commitments to be factored into any preferential tariff considerations.
