Sri Lanka’s apparel manufacturers showcase products in London

Sri Lanka’s apparel industry made a strong presence at Source Fashion London 2026, from January 13-15 at Olympia London, United Kingdom.

The Sri Lanka Pavilion, comprising 20 stalls, featured leading apparel manufacturers, including 12 Small and Medium-scale Enterprises (SMEs).

The pavilion was organised by the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) in collaboration with the Sri Lanka High Commission in the United Kingdom, with the primary objective of identifying new buyers and strengthening Sri Lanka’s apparel exports to the UK market.

This participation carried added significance as Sri Lankan garment exports gained duty free access to the UK market from January 1, 2026. Under the newly liberalised trade framework, Sri Lankan manufacturers are now permitted to source up to 100% of inputs from any country worldwide while continuing to enjoy duty free entry into the UK.

The revised rules remove earlier constraints, including the requirement for two substantial manufacturing processes to be carried out locally, thereby enhancing flexibility, competitiveness, and cost efficiency for exporters.

The exhibition was opened on January 13, 2026.

Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner in London, Nimal Senadheera, the UKs Trade Envoy to Sri Lanka, Lord Hannett of Everton and Director, EDB, Binupa Liyanage, Sri Lanka exhibitors, officials of the High Commission and EDB representatives were present. The Sri Lanka Pavilion showcased exhibitors from the apparel, textile, and accessories sectors.

A stall to promote “Creative Sri Lanka 2030” was also organised at the Sri Lanka Pavilion, providing a dedicated platform to showcase the country’s vibrant creative industry. Five Sri Lankan brands representing the creative sector displayed their products at the exhibition, highlighting Sri Lanka’s innovation, craftsmanship, and design excellence.

A highlight of the event was the unveiling of Sri Lanka’s National Export Brand, “Your Vital Island,” on the opening day of the exhibition. Built on the core values of sustainability, competence, and authenticity, the brand represents the essence of Sri Lanka’s export offerings.

Several parallel events, including catwalk sessions, panel discussions, and guest speaker forums, added further vibrancy to the platform. Selected products from Sri Lankan companies were featured during the catwalk shows.

Source: Sunday Observer