Apparel exporters from Sri Lanka must try to further expand into emerging markets like India and China,A Sukumaran,former chairman of Joint Apparel Association Forum(JAAF)has said.
Speaking at the 9th Annual General Meeting of JAAF,Mr.Sukumaran said efforts should be made to increase exports to emerging markets,while not losing focus on raising the share of Sri Lankan garments in its traditional markets.
He termed increasing the share of Sri Lankan clothing items in its traditional markets as a major challenge.
He,however,added that the Sri Lankan garment sector is ethical and it is the right path for sustainability in global apparel market.
Mr.Sukumaran also noted that Sri Lanka currently lacks any preferential treatment from major markets,while its competitors,including Bangladesh,Cambodia,Pakistan,India and Vietnam,are at present negotiating for preferential trading agreements with those countries.
He explained that under the new EU Generalised System of Preferences(GSP),beneficiary country obligations have been tightened.The beneficiary countries have to report to various monitoring bodies and in the event of an investigation,it is the beneficiary country which will have to give evidence.
Hence,prior to deciding the future course of action on GSP Plus by the Sri Lankan officials,a thorough study of the new regulations and obligations needs to be done,Mr.Sukumaran added.
Source:
http://www.fibre2fashion.com/news/apparel-news/newsdetails.aspx?news_id=118740
