Saturday Feb 01, 2025
Saturday Feb 01, 2025
Saturday, 1 February 2025 00:37 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
 |
| Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Minister Sunil Handunneththi - Pic by Lasantha Kumara |
The Government this week reassured its commitment to taking all necessary steps to ensure the apparel industry remains a formidable player on the global stage.
Speaking at the 42nd Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Sri Lanka Apparel Exporters Association (SLAEA) on Monday, Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Minister Sunil Handunneththi pledged stronger support for innovation, technical assistance and regulatory improvements to help manufacturers compete in the global market.
“The Government remains committed to supporting the industry through technological advancements, supply chain and policy improvements to boost global competitiveness,” he added.
Handunneththi underscored the industry’s potential for a major transformation, positioning it as a cornerstone of the economic recovery.
Noting that President Anura Kumara Dissanayake on Monday (27) reactivated the long-dormant Export Development Council (EDCM) after four-year hibernation, he said some key decisions were taken at the meeting.
“A stand out decision was the installation of an automated scanning system at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake, funded by the Industries Ministry, replacing the outdated manual processes. This helps to address delays in export inspections. Issues related to the inspection of apparel exports were highlighted, and resolutions were formulated with the consensus of all stakeholders,” he explained.
Handunneththi said this initiative, which received Presidential backing, marks a significant step towards removing bureaucratic hurdles that have long plagued exporters including apparel manufacturers.
He also addressed the challenges posed by global market competition and supply chain disruptions, particularly in sourcing raw materials. The Minister assured that the Government is expediting the development of the Eravur Fabric Park to ease supply chain constraints that the apparel industry is facing.
The Minister emphasised that the apparel sector is more than just an economic driver and it is a global leader in ethical manufacturing.
Recalling that Sri Lankan apparel manufacturers were the first in the world to promote ethical labour practices and environmentally friendly garment production, championing the ‘garments without guilt’ campaign; he commended the industry for its leadership.
“As we progress, the industry must not only focus on improving final products but also revolutionise production processes, ensure alignment with international best practices and sustainability standards,” he noted.
Handunneththi stressed that as the sector navigates an increasingly competitive landscape, strategic reforms and enhanced Government-industry collaboration could pave the way for sustainable and long term success.
