A distinguished 30-member delegation from the China National Garment Association (CNGA) recently visited Sri Lanka to explore new avenues for collaboration and investment in the country's burgeoning apparel industry.
The delegation, led by CNGA's Executive Vice President Xie Qing and Ningbo Garment Association Vice President and Secretary General Mao Yihua, engaged in a series of high-level meetings and activities aimed at strengthening trade relations between the two nations.
On May 9, 2024, the delegation met with key figures in Sri Lanka's economic and apparel sectors, including the Chairman of the Export Development Board (EDB), the Executive Director of the Board of Investment (BOI), and members of the Joint Apparel Association Forum Sri Lanka (JAAF). These meetings were designed to bolster existing trade ties and explore fresh collaboration opportunities within Sri Lanka's apparel industry.
The CNGA, a leading industry association with over 1,400 major members encompassing most of China's original apparel brands, expressed strong interest in the potential for investment and partnership in Sri Lanka. The delegation's visit included a series of pivotal engagements, such as business-to-business (B2B) meetings, factory visits, and discussions with key governmental institutions.
During their stay, the delegation participated in a significant business session at the EDB premises, engaging directly with 12 leading Sri Lankan apparel companies. These B2B meetings facilitated direct dialogue and the exploration of potential synergies between the Chinese representatives and their Sri Lankan counterparts.
Dr. Kingsley Bernard, Chief of the EDB, warmly welcomed the delegation, emphasizing the importance of such exchanges in strengthening bilateral ties and fostering economic growth. "The collaboration between our nations in the apparel sector is vital for our mutual economic prosperity," Dr. Bernard stated. "We are committed to deepening our cooperation and exploring new opportunities together."
The CNGA delegation's itinerary also included insightful factory visits, which provided a comprehensive understanding of Sri Lanka's apparel manufacturing capabilities. These visits, coupled with constructive dialogues with key governmental institutions, were strategically designed to enhance mutual understanding, facilitate knowledge sharing, and lay the groundwork for future investment opportunities and mutually beneficial partnerships.
Further engagements with prominent individuals and institutions in Sri Lanka's economic sector highlighted the commitment of both sides to deepening cooperation. The visit underscored the potential for significant growth in bilateral trade and investment, particularly in the apparel industry, which is a cornerstone of Sri Lanka's economy.
