Sri Lanka - TextilesSri Lanka - Textiles
Overview
Sri Lanka’s apparel export industry is one of the largest contributors to the economy. The industry has recorded substantial growth levels over the past four decades and is currently the country’s leading export, accounting for approximately 44 percent of total exports, and providing about 33 percent of the manufacturing employment in the country. Earnings from apparel exports in 2018 was $ 4.9 billion, a 3.6 percent increase compared to the previous year.
Sri Lanka has built its competitive edge on value-addition rather than cheap production cost, with greater emphasis on product quality and its ability to manufacture niche products. Despite increased international competition, exporters seem to be faring quite well. Apparel exports to EU increased following the restoration of the EU GSP+ facility in 2017.
Sri Lanka has built its competitive edge on value-addition rather than cheap production cost, with greater emphasis on product quality and its ability to manufacture niche products. Despite increased international competition, exporters seem to be faring quite well. Apparel exports to EU increased following the restoration of the EU GSP+ facility in 2017.
Leading Sub-Sectors
Establishing textile-manufacturing facilities
Providing technological equipment
Warehousing hub for U.S. yarn
Providing technological equipment
Warehousing hub for U.S. yarn
Opportunities
The apparel industry is a key sector that needs continuous upgrading and acquisition of new technology and equipment.
There are prospects to supply grey fabric, denim, polyester yarn, and specialized fabric used for lingerie and sportswear.
Many Sri Lankan apparel companies manufacture for top U.S. apparel brands.
Attractive incentives are available for U.S. manufacturers to establish textile-manufacturing facilities. U.S. suppliers who want to compete in this market need to be flexible in negotiating payment terms.
There are prospects to supply grey fabric, denim, polyester yarn, and specialized fabric used for lingerie and sportswear.
Many Sri Lankan apparel companies manufacture for top U.S. apparel brands.
Attractive incentives are available for U.S. manufacturers to establish textile-manufacturing facilities. U.S. suppliers who want to compete in this market need to be flexible in negotiating payment terms.