SLABA to boost apparel exports

The Sri Lanka Apparel Brands Association (SLABA) was launched at the Cinnamon Lakeside recently.

Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa and a large gathering of key apparel industry players were present.

Formerly known as the Domestic Garment Manufacturers Association, one of SLABA's primary objectives is to gain local and international recognition as the hub of Sri Lanka's apparel brands.

"Sri Lanka's retail apparel market today is estimated to be in the region of US$ 2 billion. 40% of this market share is contributed by Sri Lankan brands. We thus felt that the time was opportune to re-brand ourselves.

We have re-branded to gain greater recognition as we assert ourselves in the industry and market-place as an Association which encourages branded quality products for the consumer," said SLABA Chairman Indradatta Dharmawardane.

"With a membership of over 60 working diligently towards the sustainable growth of the industry, the continuous growth of Sri Lanka's apparel industry is a testament to the dedication, commitment and passion of many industry stakeholders," he said.

"SLABA is privileged to have many dedicated and passionate people as members," Dharmawardane said. SLABA represents professional industry companies consisting of apparel manufacturers, accessory and fabric manufacturers, support services, buying offices and buyers' representative and other ancillary apparel related businesses.

This combined effort provides an ideal single window of opportunity for buyers and investors who seek high-end ethical manufacturing solutions with complete backward integration to complement their supply chain.

SLABA's aims and objectives are manifold. While operating as a facilitator to develop the apparel brands segment among newcomers to the industry, it also seeks to take Sri Lankan brands to the international arena and establish them as globally recognised brands.

It will provide a common forum for the diverse product portfolio of branded apparel representing casual wear, tailoring and formal wear, fashion wear, uniform and work wear, lingerie and other products such as socks, head wear and bags.