Interviews
Sri Lanka - a global apparel destination like no other: JAAF
09 Sep '09
2 min read
Srilanka - a small island economy of just 21 million people and a GDP of $42 billion supplies over 1% of the clothing needs of the European and American consumers. A look at Sri Lanka's industry structure, human capital, enterprising nature of the private sector and government support suggests that Sri Lankan garments exports are moving along a path of sustained growth. From USD 3.2 Billion in 2007, the industry's growth is projected to be in the region of USD 5 Billion by 2010, states JAAF (also known as Sri lanka Apparel) – an apex body of all Textile and Apparel Associations that was set out in the 'Five Year Strategic Plan'.
“Sri Lanka Apparel had its modest beginnings in the early 70's and grew rapidly enjoying the benefits of the MFA assured guaranteed market access. In the last three and a half decades, with exposure to sophisticated customers and retailers and focused reinvestment back into the industry, Sri Lankan entrepreneurs transformed themselves from mere tailors to total solutions specialists,” describes Mr Mirchandani, in an interview talk with Face2Face team at Fibre2Fashion.
“The country's apparel exports in 2008 was at US$ 3.3 billion, approximately 270 factories employing about 1 million people directly and indirectly and contributing nearly 10% to the GDP. In approximate terms the industry value addition now stands at 60%. Industry is also the second largest foreign exchange earner for the country,” he further divulges.
Besides, Srilanka has also earned accolades for Garments without Guilt- a global campaign well received by global apparel industry, partner buyers, international media, and international consumers at large. It is championing for the cause of ethical apparel manufacturing and sourcing. To know about this vital industry at length, read an exclusive interview with Mr Kumar Mirchandani, Chairman Sub-committee on Image Building – Sri Lanka Apparel (JAAF).
“Sri Lanka Apparel had its modest beginnings in the early 70's and grew rapidly enjoying the benefits of the MFA assured guaranteed market access. In the last three and a half decades, with exposure to sophisticated customers and retailers and focused reinvestment back into the industry, Sri Lankan entrepreneurs transformed themselves from mere tailors to total solutions specialists,” describes Mr Mirchandani, in an interview talk with Face2Face team at Fibre2Fashion.
“The country's apparel exports in 2008 was at US$ 3.3 billion, approximately 270 factories employing about 1 million people directly and indirectly and contributing nearly 10% to the GDP. In approximate terms the industry value addition now stands at 60%. Industry is also the second largest foreign exchange earner for the country,” he further divulges.
Besides, Srilanka has also earned accolades for Garments without Guilt- a global campaign well received by global apparel industry, partner buyers, international media, and international consumers at large. It is championing for the cause of ethical apparel manufacturing and sourcing. To know about this vital industry at length, read an exclusive interview with Mr Kumar Mirchandani, Chairman Sub-committee on Image Building – Sri Lanka Apparel (JAAF).
Sri Lanka Apparel
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