President Anura Kumara Dissanayake today (22) met with leading figures and investors in Sri Lanka’s garment industry to discuss measures aimed at strengthening the country’s export economy and addressing key challenges facing the sector.
According to the President’s Media Division (PMD), the discussions focused on identifying practical and immediate solutions to issues affecting the apparel industry, which remains one of Sri Lanka’s largest sources of export earnings.
Special attention was given to facilitating the successful implementation of the Export Development Board’s (EDB) new export strategy. Participants also discussed regulatory reforms and support mechanisms required to improve the competitiveness of the sector.
During the meeting, President Dissanayake emphasized the importance of expanding manufacturing operations into rural areas, noting that such initiatives could contribute significantly to strengthening the export economy while creating employment opportunities outside major urban centres.
The President also reviewed concerns raised by local raw material suppliers regarding challenges arising from the Value Added Tax (VAT) system. He requested industry representatives to submit proposals on alternative relief measures that could be considered by the government.
The discussion further explored opportunities to expand free trade agreements and increase market access through higher quota allocations and other trade facilitation measures.
In addition, President Dissanayake highlighted the importance of strengthening legal and technological mechanisms to prevent the illicit outflow of funds earned within the country.
The meeting forms part of the government’s broader efforts to support export-oriented industries and enhance foreign exchange earnings through sustainable economic growth.
