Private-public partnership in handloom sector sees quality enhancement

By Gamini Warushamana

The 22nd national handloom textile and apparel exhibition and awards ceremony was held at the BMICH last week. The chief guest was Minister of Economic Development, Basil Rajapaksa. The event was organised by the Department of Textiles and the Ministry of Industries and Commerce.Handlooms, textiles, fabrics and the apparel sector were included in this year's exhibition. A handloom fashion show was also held to showcase latest designs. Handloom producers from many provinces participated.

The exhibition during the festive season was a good opportunity to sell products and find new markets.Minister of Industries and Commerce, Rishad Bathiudeen said that the Government is encouraging private-public partnership in the handloom sector and it has improved the quality of products.

The demand for Sri Lankan handlooms is increasing in the European market.

This year is a milestone for Sri Lanka's textiles and apparel industries. Up to September Sri Lanka's apparel exports reached $ 2,789 m. In 2011 textile and apparel exports recorded $ 4.17 b while Lankan woven fabric exports in the same year hit $ 98.18 m.

"The initiatives of the Economic Development Minister, Basil Rajapaksa and the Government of India for enhanced market access for Sri Lankan apparel are commendable. This national event, will become a regional event in the future", Bathiudeen said.

Winners of the competition in handloom designing and weaving received trophies and cash awards. P.B.S. Kanthi and M.M.A. Murine of the Western Province secured first place in the export sector and Udeni Kumari and G.N.I Kumari received gold awards.