JAAF welcomes Sirisena-Ranil Govt.; expresses confidence in improved export performance

• Stresses establishment of Rule of Law, good governance, strengthened independent democratic institutions, will pave the way for an equitable and just society

The Chairman and Executive Committee of the Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF) and its members in a statement yesterday extend their sincere warm wishes to President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on their appointments. The forum pledged its fullest support and cooperation in order to improve export centric business environment in the country in partnership with the Government as had been done since the inception of the organisation in 2002. JAAF in letters to the President and Premier has stated that membership is extremely conscious, mindful and confident that the 100-day program enunciated by the new Government will establish rule of law, good governance and, deepen and strengthen independent democratic institutions, which will pave the way for an equitable and just society. “There is no doubt that such reforms will immensely benefit the export-centric economic activities, and on their part as the stakeholders of that agenda, they would be able to significantly contribute to the economic development of the country,” JAAF added. Jointly signed by the Forum Chairman Azeem Ismail and Secretary-General Tuli Cooray, the letter further states: “We note in particular that the 100-day program has focused on improving international market access in that action will be taken to restore the withdrawn GSP+ facility which will boost our exports to the European Union and create more trade and employment opportunities. Further we note with delight that in the policy pronouncement of the Government, it clearly indicates that enhanced market access in existing, new and emerging markets would be vigorously pursued. It is with a sense of satisfaction, we note that the Government has already initiated trade and political dialogue with the United States of America, India, European Union and China, which are essential markets that the exporters in this country wish to access.” JAAF stated that Sri Lanka apparel is confident the industry would perform well going beyond the present top line of $ 4.3 b and generate revenue that could surpass the current forecasts through exports to existing, new and emerging markets and with the additional prospects of securing GSP plus concessions from the EU. Buoyant with the new administration’s approach to tap lucrative markets such as the US, India and China, the apparel sector will go full throttle to meet buyer demands in terms of competitive pricing and timely delivery and consumer expectations such as quality and product innovations, JAAF asserted. The JAAF membership comprises all of the leading garment manufacturers and exporters and has played a major role in safeguarding and promoting the interests of its corporate membership as well as the employees. From time to time the JAAF had voiced its concerns and shared its opinion with the state agencies in shaping the apparel sector’s forward march and placing the industry in the place it enjoys today.