One of the biggest industries in Sri Lanka, the manufacture and export of garments and apparel plays a vital role in the country’s economy, employing over 15 per cent of the workforce and is one of the largest contributors to export revenue, accounting for nearly half of the country’s exports.
Sri Lanka is among the top apparel-producing countries in the world relative to its population and has established itself as a reliable supplier of quality garments at competitive prices, creating a reputation for upholding to ethical practices backed by legislation, thus being identified as a producer of ‘garments with no guilt.’ The country also categorises itself as being the world’s first ethical apparel sourcing destination.
One of the key advantages of sourcing from Sri Lanka is the island’s central and advantageous location which facilitates the shortest shipping time to Europe, which under normal circumstances takes less than 16 days.
It also prides itself on being one of the few Asian countries to ratify all fundamental conventions set forth by the International Labour Organization. The industry also employs many women in its factories, consisting of 85 per cent of the apparel sector.
The industry, after assembling garments together since taking off in the 1980s, is now moving towards positioning itself as a fashion industry.
Some of the largest manufacturers in Sri Lanka include MAS Holdings, Brandix Lanka Limited, Hayleys PLC, Hemas Garments, Hirdarmani Group and Jinadasa Holdings amongst others.
MAS Intimates, one of the largest firms in the industry, employing nearly 16,000 people, is a supplier to some prominent names in the fashion industry such as Gap, Marks & Spencer, Nike and Victoria’s Secret.