Beaming light on horizon for apparel industry - Prof. Lakdas Fernando

By Lalin FERNANDOPULLE

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Many foreign exhibitors pulled out from this year's Apparel Industry Suppliers Exhibition (AISEX) and the Fabric and Accessory Suppliers Exhibition (FASE) due to the global economic turmoil, said Chairman, Sri Lanka Apparel Institute, Prof. Lakdas Fernando.

He was speaking at the opening of the AISEX and FASE exhibitions at the BMICH recently.

Prof. Fernando said though Sri Lanka's apparel industry is facing turbulent times there is a beaming light on the horizon with manufacturers and exporters showing a keen interest to develop the industry.

"Apparel exports, one of Sri Lanka's largest foreign exchange earners have increased over the years and the industry is recognised for quality and compliance with ethical standards", he said.

This year's participation of many countries in the region will be a platform to discuss and exchange views on the rapidly changing nature of the apparel trade and how manufacturers and exporters should respond, consolidate and strengthen their share in the world market.

He said AISEX 2008, the seventh in the series of the biennial exhibition will be of interest to apparel manufacturers of the SAARC region to enhance their knowledge on the development of technology.

FASE will showcase a wide range of fabrics and accessories for the apparel exporter and the exhibition will be supported by a large number of Indian fabric manufacturers and suppliers.

The Sri Lankan apparel industry is in the fourth year of the quota free regime and we have weathered the storm unharmed compared to competitors. Advanced technology is an essential factor to be ahead of the competition", Prof. Fernando said.

Chairman, Joint Apparel Association Forum, Ajith Dias said Sri Lanka's garments which is a Rs. 3.2 billion industry has immense potential to expand and enhance revenue to the country.

"The apparel industry has moved from a bottom end to middle and high end exporter.The industry should make use of events of this nature to showcase its strength and attract more buyers from the region", he said.

Minister of Textile Industry and Development Mahinda Rathnathilake said the apparel industry is one of Sri Lanka's most vital and lucrative industries.

"The exhibition will offer an opportunity for local apparel manufacturers to build links with fabric and accessory suppliers", he said.