AISEX projects Lanka's potential internationally

by Lalin Fernandopulle

Sri Lanka's apparel industry has made great progress despite difficulties after the phasing out of the Multi Fibre Agreement (MFA). The industry is focused to capture larger export markets and compete better with key exporters in the region, said Chairman, Sri Lanka Apparel Institute, Prof. Lakdas Fernando.

Speaking to the Sunday Observer on the Apparel Industry Suppliers Exhibition (AISEX) Prof. Fernando said apparel exhibitions of this nature will not only showcase the variety and innovations of Sri Lanka's apparel and fabric industry but also project its potential to emerge as a big player in the international market.

Apparel exports is one of the key foreign exchange earners to the country with a large market share in the US and Europe. Exports grew from US $ 2.3 million to $3.4 billion this year promising a reliable market in the future. Prof. Fernando said the apparel industry lacks modern technological facilities to keep pace with the growing demands from western buyers who look for attractive fabrics.

"Implementation of sound technology with state-of-the-art facilities at manufacturing plants will bring in better results.

Bridging the technological divide to meet global apparel standards needs to be urgently addressed", the Professor said. Today China's apparel industry is booming due to the application of advanced technology and the support of the government.

The SMEs of the apparel sector in Sri Lanka are backward due to lack of technology and financial support. The private and public sector partnership can play a bigger role to accelerate growth of the slow moving sectors in the country.

The Sri Lanka Apparel Institute has been holding the event since 1994 to bring the developments of the apparel and fabric industry to the doorsteps of buyers. The event is an occasion for those in the industry to come in contact with the latest technological innovations and key players to promote business opportunities", he said.

The sixth Apparel Industry Suppliers' Exhibition (AISEX) and Fabric Accessories Suppliers Exhibition (FASE) held at the BMICH from November 9 to 12 attracted over 6,000 local and international participants.

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