Stitching through storms

Sri Lanka Apparel Exporters Association Chairperson Rajitha Jayasuriya affirms no mass order cancellations yet, but buyers act cautiously.

- BY CHARUMINI DE SILVA

Says forecasts and supply chains face growing disruptions Industry monitoring for signs of US economic slowdown as predicted by analysts Opines potential slowdown in US economy will dampen demand, order volumes, projected growth in upcoming quarters SLAEA and JAAF support Govt.'s diplomatic efforts Asserts focus remains on export stability and supply chain resilience Notes both SMEs and large exporters need support amid trade headwinds; urges improvements in ease of doing business.

THE country's apparel industry, the largest export sector and a cornerstone of foreign revenue, is bracing for heightened volatility following the US's recent imposition of a 44% reciprocal tariff. Although the blow was temporarily softened by a 90-day relief window, concerns among industry leaders are growing over the medium-term implications on order volumes, supply chain stability, and global competitiveness.

Sri Lanka Apparel Exporters Association (SLAEA) Chairperson Rajitha Jayasuriya affirmed the immediate fallout has not included mass cancellations of orders, though selective buyers have responded with caution.