Sri Lanka, March 3 -- Sri Lanka's apparel exports fell 2.66 percent in January 2026 to US $ 425.44 million, from US $ 437.07 million a year earlier, reflecting the persistent pressure across key markets.

Exports to the United States dropped 2.73 percent to US $ 165.11 million, while shipments to the European Union, excluding the UK, declined 1.93 percent to US $ 126.99 million. The UK market, however, showed stability, rising slightly by 0.23 percent to US $ 61.71 million. Exports to other markets fell 6.07 percent to US $ 71.63 million.

The UK's modest growth coincides with the revised Duty Credit Trading Scheme, effective from January 1, 2026, which is expected to improve sourcing flexibility and competitiveness. Additionally, the mov...