The Sri Lankan apparel sector is currently experiencing a downturn, but there are positive prospects for a turnaround by the year’s end, according to Arti Bhagat, the Executive Director of World India Exhibition and Promotion Pvt. Ltd (WORLDEX).
Bhagat attributes Sri Lanka’s apparel sector dip to global issues like the Ukraine-Russia war and European recession, but sees a positive turnaround and plans to host INTEX South Asia in Sri Lanka on 10th-12th August this year.
She mentioned that both Bangladesh and Sri Lanka experienced this crisis because of their limited domestic market, unlike India, whose apparel exports are nearly double. Their company witnessed significant growth in Sri Lanka’s apparel industry, initiating its first exhibition there in 2015 and subsequently hosting regular events in Bangladesh and India. “We have conducted five INTEX exhibitions in Sri Lanka, three in Bangladesh, and two in India,” she stated.
The exhibition receives support from Apparel-related associations and Ministries. Moreover, this year, companies will showcase modern apparel sector technology to be implemented in Sri Lanka. “Intex South Asia provides an excellent platform for textile and apparel SMEs in search of international business opportunities, featuring a diverse array of global and regional exhibitors.” The Expo aims to boost textile and clothing exports to both EU and non-EU markets. Additionally, various technical seminars related to the apparel sector will be held during the event.”
