KARMANTHA -R VANIJAULA · K2 O 0.31% Na2O 0.14% CuO 0.12% Kahatagaha Graphite Lanka Limited, Mr. D....

Sri Lanka crosses the $ eight billion export markThe Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) the prime export arm for driving Sri Lanka’s exports to countries around the world, had a review of the export performance for the first half of the year at the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, chaired by Minister of Industry of Commerce Rishad Bathiudeen.

...the gold award won by the EDB at the Kunming Fair in China gave a head start to the activities of the EDB for 2011.

The Minister addressing the officials remarked that the E.D.B. has some of the best officers in the public service and should endeavour to extend greater cooperation to the private sector by facilitating buyer / seller meetings, promotional programmes and securing stalls at international fairs so that Sri Lanka could cross the eight billion dollar export target in 2010 thereby exceeding the last year’s performance.

The Minister urged the EDB to initiate specific activities based on the proposals spelt out in the mini budget for the next six months and thereafter to formulate a detailed plan for the next three years aimed at enhancing the exports thereby contributing to the narrowing down of the budget deficit to below 5% in the future, in keeping with the government strategy.

The officials of the Sri Lanka Export Development Board explained how the Board uses sophisticated forecasting models like “Export Prediction Models,” linking programmes with Commercial Attaches

functioning in Sri Lanka’s Missions overseas to boost the exports.The EDB officials also stated that they are focusing on the strategy of developing Agro zones to increase the production of key fruits and vegetables targeting tourists destinations like the Maldives.

...everyone ought to contribute to make Sri Lanka a wonder of Asia. -- Minister

“A robust buyer – seller partnership development programme has also been developed and rolled out since the beginning of the year,” they added.

It was also pointed out that the gold award won by the EDB at the Cuming Fair in China gave a head start to the activities of the EDB for 2010. The award was won by an integrated business approach adopted by the EDB. The Minister emphasized that this achievement should be repeated in the future too and that everyone ought to contribute to make Sri Lanka a wonder of Asia.

Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce Jayaratna Herath, Additional Secretary Mr. Janaka Sugathadasa, Chairman Export Development Board Mr. Janaka Ratnayake, Executive Director Export Development Board Dr. Marikkar, the new Board members Director-General Mrs. Sujatha Weerakoon and senior officials were also present at the review meeting.

“Export earnings must strengthen our economy, the Government is prepared to extend its fullest support.” -- Minister.

Export earnings January 2011 + 72.4% growth

Earnings from exports in January 2011 increased by 72.4 per cent year-on-year, to US dollars 813 million led by significant increases in exports of textile and garments and rubber products. In comparison to January 2008, exports have increased by 47.3 per cent. Expenditure on imports increased by 21.3 per cent to US dollars 1,501 million in January 2011, mainly due to increases in imports of motor vehicles, electrical equipment and transport equipment. Accordingly, the trade deficit in January 2011 narrowed by 10.2 per cent, year-on-year, to US dollars 688 million.

S r i L a n k a

April 2011, Vol. 01 Edition 01 www.industry.gov.lk

Sri Lanka Export Development Board

Department of Commerce

National Enterprise Development Authority

Sri Lanka Institute of Textile & Apparel

Department of the Registrar of Companies

National Intellectual Property Office

President Mahinda Rajapaksa focused on driving accelerated development of the economy in the area of industrial and commerce sectors of Sri Lanka is seen here officially handing over the subject Ministry to Minister Rishad Bathuideen in November 2010. The Minister with a strong working agenda based on RBA(results based activation) is implementing ground based tactical strategies under the guidance of Senior Advisor to the President and Minister of Economic Development, Hon. Basil Rajapaksa.

Minister calls upon officials to formulate a detailed plan for the next three years

Source Central Bank of Sri Lanka

Expenditure & Earnings 2010-2011

KIRULAMinistry of Industry & CommerceKARMANTHA - VANIJA-

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Email Karmantha-Vanija Kirula: [email protected] Telephone: 011 243 6124 Fax: 011 244 9402


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With the abundance of the Aluth Avurudda in the air, the brainchild ofSenior Advisor to President &Minister of Economic Development Hon. Basil Rajapaksa to establish one million home economic units in the country which was spearheaded on January 22 this year was received with tears of appreciation and gratitude as the unprecedented economic benefits were realized by the rural people.

The overwhelming response and appreciation of the general public to the Divi Neguma initiative validated the endorsement of the public to the government’s efforts to strengthen the rural population.

This life changing project was launched on January 22, 2011, after which the minister held discussions focusingon enhancing the living standards of the people and strengthening their economic level with the assistance of administrative bodies of the Government. The project involves home economic units which will be put into practice in the coming Yala and Maha seasons. It is learnt the identification of areas where these economic units are to be set up will be completed during the first part of the year 2011.

District level meetings with the participation of senior citizens, government officials, parliamentarians was held in several areas up to April 5 in an attempt to build awareness on healthy and wealthy lifestyle through the setting up of these one million domestic economic units. This national programme was initiated with peoples

participation in order to improve their nutrition level and livelihood.Pensioners, senior citizens, woman and clergy have expressed their support to the programme which involves greater participation of the people so that their own nutritional levels and livelihoods are improved.

Elaborating on this unique programme the MinisterBasil Rajapaksa said that four key government officials who will have direct contacts with the public will, under this programme, will be in charge of the project. Thus, Agrarian Research Officer, Samurdhi Officer, GramsewaNiladhari and family planning officers have been named as the co-coordinators of the entire project.

Beneficiary families will be directly supervised by these officials to ascertain the effectiveness of the programme. Several sectors including agriculture, industries, self-employments, fisheries, live-stocks, small crops exporters, animal husbandry, dairy industries and home garden will thus be strengthened with the direct support of the government.

Explaining further Minister Basil Rajapaksa said that the government will help the people to initiate the domestic economic units but maintaining them will be the responsibility of the people.

An awareness campaign on this project will be conducted island-wide and a special card will be issued to the people who will become the partners of this purpose.

Rishad Bathuideen Minister of Industry and Commerce, NimalSiripala De Silva, Minister of Irrigation and Water Resources Management, AnuraPriyadarshanaYapa, Minister of Environment, PavithraWanniarachchi, Minister of Technology and Research, MahindaYapaAbeywardena, Minister of Agriculture, SalindaDissanayake, Minister of Indigenous Medicine, Reginald Cooray, Minister of Small Export Crops Promotion, S.M Chandrasena, Minister of Agrarian Services and Wildlife, MuthuSivalingam, Deputy Minister of Economic Development, LakshmanYapaAbeywardena, Deputy Minister of Economic Development, H R Mithrapala, Deputy Minister of Livestock and Rural Community Development, WeerakumaraDissanayake, Deputy Minister of Traditional Industries and Small Enterprise Development, P B Jayasundara, Secretary t o the Ministry of Finance and Planning and W B Ganegala, Secretary to the Ministry of Mass Media and Information participated in this discussion

Awareness programmes were held by the Minister in Kalutara, Ratnapura, Kegalle. Kurunegala, Anuradhapura, Matale, Kandy, NuwaraEliya, Hambantota, Monaragala and Galle since the launch of this iconic programme in January this year.

Senior Presidential Advisor & Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa explaining the Divi Neguma concept to senior government officials at the launch meeting held recently

One million economic units aim to strengthen the rural population

Minister appoints task force to accelerateprogress of the Industrial SectorMinister of Industry and Commerce Rishad Bathiudeen has appointed a high level task force to recommend a new strategy to drive the Industrial Sector of Sri Lanka in order to exploit the new-found opportunities in the post-war economic landscape of Sri Lanka, said the Ministry.

The Ministry of Industry and Commerce is one of the stronger ministries that has been architechtured under the new government to give a new dimension to trade and commerce in the country.

The Minister advised the high powered committee to take into account the Mahinda Chintana – Ediri Dakme so that it gives the whole country the direction that it needs to work towards this vision.

The seven member committee is headed by Chairman of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce and former Unilever Director, Dr. Anura Ekanayake, former Chairman of Sri Lanka Export Development Board and Head of National Portfolio Development United Nations Office(UNOPS) Rohantha Athukorala, Engineering Design Specialist of the University of Moratuwa, Prof. Kapila Jayasinghe, Rubber strategist, Mr. Lakna Paranawitharana, the NEDA Consultant W.C. Dheerasekera,

Chairman of PASS Research and Consultancy, Samantha Pathirathneand the Director, Policy and Planning of EDB, Jayawickrama Silva.

...a high level task force to recommend a new strategy to drive the Industrial Sector of Sri Lanka so that it can exploit the new found opportunities in the post-war economic landscape of Sri Lanka.

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STANDARD PARTICLE SIZE

+10mm Lumps

1.7-5mm Bold Chips

0.5-1.7mm Fine Chips

-0.5 Chippy Dust

-10+60 mesh Flakes

-40+100 mesh Flakes Type Powder

-200 mesh Powder

ASH COMPOSITION OF +99%C GRAPHITE

SiO 49.30%

FeO 47.57%

MgO 0.69%

CaO 0.93%

Al2 O3 0.74%

K2 O 0.31%

Na2O 0.14%

CuO 0.12%

Kahatagaha Graphite Lanka Limited,Mr. D. Kalansooriya - ChairmanLady Lochore Loan Fund Building, 100, 1/3, Sir Chittampalam A Gardiner Mawatha,Colombo-2,Sri Lanka

Tel: +94112388662Fax: +94112388663Email: [email protected]

Kahatagaha Mines are located in North Western Province of Sri Lanka at Maduragoda, Dodangaslanda in the Kurunegala District, approximately 90 km. from the capital of Colombo, and managed by Kahatagaha Graphite Lanka Limited. (KGLL) It is a fully government owned public limited liability Company, under the Company Act No. 07 of 2007 purviewed by the Ministry of Industrial Development and the major share holder is Secretary to the Treasury. It is situated at an elevation of 25 meters in Hilly terrain and approximately 102 acres with free hold title, while Kahatagaha Graphite Lanka Ltd. is only occupying a few acres of the surface land. The mine extends as far as 500 meters at its widest point. Kahatagaha Graphite Mine is 2000 feet (610 meters) deep which makes it is the deepest mine in Sri Lanka and accessed by 2 shafts. The one at Kahatagaha is 1132 feet (345 meters) and Kolongaha goes up to 330 feet (101 meters). The below shaft bottom access is by series of winches up to 2000 feet (610 meters). Main winch is operated to send underground workers up to 1132 feet level to reach up to 2000 feet level.

KAHATAGAHA UNIQUE PRODUCT While having a world recognition, Sri Lanka is the only commercial Source of supply of high Carbon Natural Crystalline Vein Graphite and particularly Kahatagaha Mine is capable of mining high purity Natural Vein Graphite over 99% carbon in fully crystallized form. It is found as needles, lumps, rossets, and flakes, enjoying monopoly of high carbon crystalline vein graphite with low ash content having a proven reputation of world market acceptance as an unique product. WHAT IS GRAPHITEGraphite is the mineralogical of the naturally occurring crystalline forms of carbon. Graphite is soft, insoluble, tasteless, odorless, greasy to touch, and iron black to steel grey in color. Graphite can be divided mainly as natural graphite and synthetic graphite. Natural graphite is sub divided as amorphous, crystalline vein and crystalline flake. Amorphous is low carbon source of graphite. Vein and flake graphite are medium to high carbon source. Synthetic

Graphite which is produced by petroleum coke.As graphite was mined from the earth it was called “MIHIRAN” in Sinhala in the early which was later turned to “MINIRAN”. The properties of graphite, such as stability at high temperatures, chemical inertness, non-toxicity and lubricity have made it an important raw material for modern industry. PRINCIPAL USE OF GRAPHITEThe principal use of graphite is in the manufacture of refractories, which are used to line the surface of furnaces in the steel industry, crucibles and foundries. Over 30% of the world consumption of Graphite is in the form of refractories, crucibles, retorts, stoppers, Gaskets, Bearings, Dry Cell batteries, Varnishes & Paints, sleeves and nozzles for industrial purposes. Other major applications are in foundries (15%), lubricants (14%), brake linings (13%), and pencils (7%). GRAPHITE EXPORT COUNTRIESKGLL is a 100% export oriented Company, and its major export countries are U.S.A., U.K., JAPAN, AUSTRALIA, INDIA and PAKISTAN. New inquiries have been made for Kahatagaha Graphite from Brunel University of United Kingdom - to be used first in Boeing’s aero planes and also in future testing of NASA space rockets.

THE GRADES

KL +99%C

KHL 97-99%C

KBL 97-99%C

KL 97-99%C

KL 95-97%C

KL 92-95%C

KC 90-92%C

FLAKE 90-95%C

Discovering: Kahatagaha Graphite Mines to strike Gold

External trade performs well in December 2010A positive month for exports in December has propelled the country to conclude 2010 as the best for ‘Made in Sri Lanka’ in global markets.

The Central Bank said exports in December recorded the highest ever figure of $ 968 million, boosting the full year value to $ 8.3 billion, the best ever in the country’s history. December shipments recorded 34% growth whilst end 2010 performance reflected a 17.3% growth over 2009. The year 2010 also surpassed the previous highest in exports $ 8.11 billion achieved in 2008.

Exports soar to highest ever of

$ 968 m, boosting 2010 full total to a record $ 8.3 b, up 17.3% over 2009

Imports soar to $ 1.42 b bringing 2010 total to $ 13.5 b, up 34% from 2009

Trade deficit surpasses $ 5 b mark from $ 3 b in 2009

Imports had also amounted to its highest level in December with $ 1.42 billion, up by 31% over the corresponding month of 2009, whilst the total figure for the full year was $ 13.5 billion, up 32% over 2009.These twin developments saw the trade deficit expand to $ 5.2 billion in 2010 from $ 3.1 billion in 2009.

The largest contribution to the growth in exports in December was from the industrial sector, led by significant increases in exports of textiles and garments, food and beverages and rubber products.Earnings from garment exports to EU and USA increased by 33.9% and 31.4%, respectively, in December 2010.

Exports of food, beverages and tobacco products increased by 74.3%, year-on-year, mainly due to higher earnings recorded by exports of fruits, vegetables and animal fodder. Rubber product

exports consisted mainly of new pneumatic tyres and articles of apparel and clothing accessories (mainly gloves).

However, earnings from machinery and equipment and the diamonds and jewellery exports recorded year-on-year declines in December 2010. Earnings from agricultural exports increased in December 2010, reflecting a healthy growth in all major sub sectors, mainly due to higher prices recorded by major export crops in the international market.

Import expenditure on food and drink increased in December 2010 mainly due to higher food prices in the international market

The average export prices of tea and rubber continued to remain high at $ 4.56 per kg and $ 4.26 per kg, respectively, in December 2010. Earnings from minor agricultural exports increased by 28.8% to $ 30 million in December, 2010 mainly due to significant increases recorded in the export volumes of cocoa, essential oils, cashew nuts and cardamoms.

Expenditure on imports of intermediate goods increased in December 2010, led by higher expenditure incurred on petroleum imports. The average import price of crude oil increased by 16.5% to $ 90.37 per barrel in December 2010.

Textile imports also increased substantially in December 2010, indicating a better outlook for the garment industry. The expenditure on fertiliser imports increased by 119.4% to $ 29 million reflecting higher import volumes due to the extended acreage cultivated in the Northern and Eastern Provinces and extension of fertiliser support scheme to coconut cultivations.

Import expenditure on food and drink increased in December 2010 mainly due to higher food prices in the international market. Expenditure on non food consumer import category also increased mainly due to higher imports of motor vehicles. All categories of investment goods imports increased in December 2010.

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Disparity of infrastructure facilities between regions and the center is one of the main obstacles for industrial development in the country. Regional Industrial Development Programme is one of the main projects implemented by this Ministry to promote regional industrialization encouraging industrialists to invest at the regional level and provision of employment to the rural masses. Under this programme, industries which were located heavily in Western Province has shifted to regional level with the development of 24 industrial estates throughout the country, Under this programme lands are identified in the regions and developed with major infrastructure facilities such as roads, electricity, water supply etc. required by industrialists to setup their industries.

Currently, a total of 13,942 employment opportunities have been created in these industrial estates expecting 28,000 opportunities in full capacity.There are 24 industrial estates in operation and within those estates 252 industries are in commercial operation with an investment of approximately Rs. 26.9 billion and another 35 factories are under construction. Currently a total of 13,942 employment opportunities have been created in these industrial estates expecting 28,000 opportunities in full capacity.

Provision of infrastructure for industrial development through industrial estates has become important mainly due to the scarcity of suitable lands to locate industrial units with proper waste management system adhering to environmental norms & regulations. Availability of skilled labour in the vicinity is also considered in the selection of locations to cluster industries.

At present special emphasis is made in developing industrial estates in North and East. As the war has become to an end, the potential of these regions which had remained untapped for decades, would be renewed. Five industrial estates in the various parts of the North and East would be established and the industrial estates in Trincomalee (Stage1) and Ampara have been already completed. Figure 6 and figure 7 below provide an illustration of the industrial estates currently in operation and new industrial estates proposed, respectively.

Focused rural centric infrastructural development to promote local industry

Regional Industrial Development to generate 28,000 new jobs

For further inquiries:Mr. H.P. JayanandaDirectorRegional Industrial DevelopmentDivisionMinistry of Industry and Commerce73/1 Galle RoadColombo 03

Tel: 0112441490Fax: 0112423965E mail: [email protected]

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Sri Lanka Institute of Textile and Apparel Training aims to supply qualified manpower to the industryWith the mission to be an internationally renowned training and technical service provider for the textile and apparel industry, The Sri Lanka Institute of Textile and Apparel (SLITA) also hopes to facilitate Sustainable Development of Sri Lankan Textile and Apparel Industry by producing a competent workforce with specialized skill.

The Institute, with a modern Auditorium and a Seminar Hall equipped with all the latest audio/visual aids and other features to meet international requirements provides the infrastructure to give a sound education. The Library is equipped with a 4000 volume in textile, clothing and allied subjects.

The Library also has in place International Journals and magazines on all aspects of the textile and clothing industry. International Magazines related to Business and Commerce, Economics, Accounting , Management , Marketing facilitate an all round education.

The Sri Lanka Institute of textile & Apparel (SLITA) was established on July 01, 2009 under the provisioning Act No.12 of 2009 by merging the Clothing Industry Training Institute and the Textile Training and Services Centre which had jointly served the apparel industry for nearly 25 years.Today, the Sri Lanka Institute of textile and Apparel (SLITA) is a premier institute which is geared to better not just the whole facet of textile and apparel in the country but to give the manpower essential for the smooth running of the industry.

The Sri Lanka Institute of textile and Apparel (SLITA) has forged ahead with confidence and today emerges not just as a hallmark of textile and apparel but a training centre.

The Institute, with a modern Auditorium and a Seminar Hall equipped with all the latest audio/visual aids and other features to meet international requirements provides the infrastructure to give a sound education. The Library is equipped with a 4000 volume in textile,s clothing and allied subjects.The Sri Lanka Institute of textile & Apparel (SLITA) has confidently undertaken to offer short course, diploma courses and certificate courses which are on par with courses associated with textiles and apparel the world over.

The diploma courses include fulltime and part time courses for Diploma in Textile and Apparel Technology, Advanced Diploma in Coloration and Finishing Technology, which is a part time course and Diploma in Testing and Quality Assurance of Textile and Garment. Among the Certificate Courses are Certificate in Garment Washing, Dyeing and Finishing Technology a course that can be followed on

both a part time and full time basis; Certificate in Fabric Technology which is a part time course and a Certificate Course in Management for Executives in Textile and Apparel which can be followed on a part time basis. Certificate in Knitting Technology is another part time course that the SLITA offers. Short courses designed to educate in a minimum period of time include part time a course in the Technological Aspect of Fabrics for Textiles and Garment Industry, Full time courses in Dyeing of Garment Accessories, Socks Knitting, Batik Dyeing for Export and part time courses in Fabric Inspection, Management Skill Development for Supervisors, Circular Knitting Technology.

The Sri Lanka Institute of Textile and Apparel Training programme in the month of Jaunary included Deiploma in Textile and Apparel Technology, Certificate in Clothing Technology, Certificate in Work Study and Factory Management, Certificate in Merchandising Management, Certificate in Pattern Cutting, Grading and Styling Development, Sewing Machine Engineering and maintenance, Certificates in Pattern Cutting Grading and Styling Development, Sewing Machine Engineering and Maintenance,

In the month of February, the course programme included Fabric Inspection, Management Skill Development for Supervisors, Certificate in Garment Quality Management, Certificate in Merchandising Management, CAD DEveloploment (LECTRA), Children’s wear pattern cutting and Grading, Jigs and Attachment Technology.

Sri Lanka Institute of Textile & Apparel

Mr.Y.L.S. HameedDirector-General

Kandawala Estate, No.2,Gen. Sir John Kotalawela Mawatha,Ratmalana.Sri Lanka

T. 94-11-2632406 / 94-11-2622649 / 94-11-2636917F. 94-11-2636337 / 94-11-2636916E. [email protected]

website: http://www.textile-clothing.lk

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Sri Lanka Design Festival 2010 was recognised as an impressive platform to showcase Sri Lankan creativity and created new market linkages for the Apparel Industry and rural communities. implemented with the support of the Ministry of Industry and Commerce The festival this year is to take place in November 2011, with the key objective of exemplifying ‘Design’ as a driving force in Economic Development.

Academy of Design (main organizers of the festival) are conducting nationwide craft revival projects with a special focus on the North and East including Ampara, Batticloa, Mulativu, Mannar and Jaffna.

Sri Lanka Design Festival (SLDF) 2011 focuses on utilizing the power of creativity to foster social and economic development and showcasing the many ways of using design as a value addition and a responsible and sustainable problem solver fomenting economic leading to growth. Since its inauguration in 2009 SLDF has focused on promoting the local Apparel industry to international fashion retailers and design brands in order to aid the industry in the discovery of new markets and clientele. SLDF also takes a special interest in creating awareness of the unique aspects of the Sri Lankan apparel sector and takes the messages behind Sri Lanka Apparel’s ‘Garments without Guilt’ Campaign out to the world. ‘Garments without Guilt’ highlights the ethical manufacture and sustainable development ethos of the SL Apparel Industry and its dedication to prevent sweatshop conditions, child labour and other adverse working conditions. SLDF 2010 yielded many positive outcomes for the local Apparel Industry, resulting in several prestigious European retailers linking with Sri Lankan apparel makers while Lankan designers have also collaborated with big names of European fashion retail. SLDF 2011 is focused on demonstrating the results of the amalgamation of design and technology by highlighting the creative potential of the local apparel industry.

Sri Lanka Design Festival supports the traditional arts and crafts industry of Sri Lanka is a long-standing initiative. SLDF is committed to the renewal of traditional craft by integrating artisans’ technical skills with the innovative thinking of modern designers. In 2010, SLDF conducted a range of nation-wide collaborative projects with international design graduates and local craftspeople. The results of these projects were high-quality exports of global standards, which raised the bar for Sri Lankan craft-based exports and new market links for our artisans. In 2011, Sri Lanka Design Festival expects to expand the scope of these projects and create direct, international market linkages for local artisans. The Academy of Design (main organizers of the festival) are conducting nation-wide craft revival projects with a special focus on the North and East including Ampara, Batticloa, Mulativu, Mannar and Jaffna. These projects incorporate Palmyrah, Fabric Weaving, Knitting, Woodwork, Lacquer, Brasswork, Ceramic, Embroidery, Rattan, Coconut-shell, Batik, Paper and more.

Sri Lanka Design Festival will present a series of events such as the ‘Ethical Fashion Symposium’ where Sri Lanka’s industrial integrity is showcased in an international forum, apparel industry fashion shows and exhibitions displaying the strength and the creativity of the trade, graduate fashion shows and exhibitions highlighting Sri Lanka’s young talent and many workshops that will offer the general public access to a range of creative areas.

Sri Lanka Design Festival (SLDF) is organized by the Academy of Design – one of Sri Lanka’s premier educators in Design. The local creative industries and the Sri Lankan government that have identified the great potential of the event have also pledged their support to SLDF.

The Sri Lankan Design Festival catwalk showcasing one many designs by Sri Lankan designers and companies.

Sri Lanka Design Festival 2011 to unite design with economic development

Sri Lankan design sees new leading edges

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SL – Iraq trade talks after eight years After a lapse of eight year in Sri Lanka began discussion on Economic and Technical cooperation between Sri Lanka and Iraq under the direction of the Minister of Industry and Commerce Hon. Rishard Bathuideen.

Sri Lanka had a market share of almost 65% in the 1990’s and we must once again regain this share said Minister RishardBathuideen. He went on to say that a definitive action plan must be agreed between the two countries so that in depth and breadth the countries can mutually benefit from the discussion.

The total trade that was 8.7 million dollars way back in 2003 has now grown to become a 37.5 million dollars in 2009 but now with a stronger focus on a liberalized policies in Iraq there can be a propensity for greater opportunities for the Sri Lanka’s private sector to support Iraqi economy and there by achieving a mutually beneficial relationship. The Iraqi trade minister Dr. Mohommed Abdul Hakeem Alsafi commented the need for rubber to support the aggressive industrial drive that is taking from in Iraq.

Almost twenty key exporters of tea from Sri Lanka are currently in Baghdad at the international trade Fair to sketch out the business strategy which is an indication of the renewed interest between the countries specially in the focused industry of tea which is driving on a new positioning platform of Ethically manufactured ozone friendly teas. It is a proposition that is unique to Sri Lanka. Minister Bathuideen emphasized the need for a Private Public partnership as the new model of driving trade globally so that Sri Lanka can become a 20 billion dollar export industry by 2010. to Sri Lanka.

Minister Bathuideen emphasized the need for a Private-Public partnership as the new model of driving trade globally so that Sri Lanka can become a 20 billion dollar export industry by 2010.

Rs. 7.3 million invested for Cleanest Tea proposition In the back drop of some the revolutionary move made by the Ministry of Plantations where a 10 million dollar promotional fund was orchestrated with the implementing partner being the Sri Lana Tea Board in 2010, yesterday in a unique partnering gesture- the Minister of Industries and Commerce Rishad Bathuideen supported the industry by investing Rs73 million to ensure that the Clean Tea proposition is consolidated with good agricultural practices. The move involved that minimum residue levels (MRL) of tea exported are within the limits specified to the sensitive markets of EU and Japan. The project will be implemented by the Sri Lana Tea Research Institute(TRI).

Minister Rishard Bathuideen commented that Sri Lanka needs to ensure that all products marketed globally are within the quality parameters expected by its targeted customers so that any Sri Lankan products will not be subject to any non-tariff barriers in any country around the world. “In fact we need to set the quality standards for a product such as tea which Sri Lanka dominates in the global market even though competition is entrenched” he said.

Hasitha De Alwis Director of SL Tea Board, Dr. Abeysinghe (Director Tea Research Institute), Mr. RohanthaAthukorala (Chairman Tea Advisory Ministry of Industry and Mr. JayanthaKeragala Chairman Sri Lanka Tea Exporters in discussion with Hon. Minister of Industry and Commerce Rishard Bathuideen. This is the photo caption

“Sri Lanka tea achieved an all- time record of 1.3 billion dollars in 2010 and we need to thank all the stakeholders who made his possible for Sri Lanka”, said the Minister who is charge of Sri Lanka exports for the country. A sum of approximately Rs.450 million will be invested in its global marketing drive to ensure Sri Lanka will achieve the twenty billion dollar export target by 2020.

The Chairman of the Sri Lana Tea Exporters Association forecasted that Sri Lanka will be able to beat the $1 billion performance in 2011 given that tea prices at the auction in the 1st week of 2011 has been positive but cautioned on the adverse weather conditions and the looming wage discussions that are to take place later during the year.

The Director of the Sri Lanka Tea Research Institute of Sri Lanka Dr. SaranthAbeysinghe ensured that with the field trials done on the 27 chemicals that Sri Lankan tea growers use a new standard that the world must accept could be developed. This reflects the respect that the world has on the quality standards of Ceylon Tea. The Chairman of the Tea Traders Association (CTTA) Mr. Aravinda De Silva highlighted the new trend seen around the world where propositions like ‘ Rainforest Alliance’ can further differentiate Ceylon Tea in the

Global market place Minister Bathuideen said that we should work towards these standards after completing the Minimum Residual Level (MRL) standardization.

Chairman of the Tea Advisory Committee for the Ministry of Industry and Commerce RohanthaAthukorala asserted that until the recent past tea was considered a commodity but that it is now categorized in the very competitive range and stringent quality standards are expected. As a beverage that is worth globally over 50 billion dollars with many value addition activity -many Sri Lankan exporters has successfully entered already. With this initiative of ensuring that all teas exported are as per global hygiene standards Sri Lanka can now drive the global industry stronger” he said.

The development of tea being classified as a beverage globally has led to the product being subject to the biological and physical food standards to ensure food safety of the global customer which is why this initiative is a key national project. In fact with initiative it further consolidates our proposition of Ozone friendly status that can drive a premium in the global market, commented the Director of Tea Research Board Hasitha De Alwis and thanked he Ministries of Trade and Commerce for their continued support.

The Secretary to the Ministry Mr. TilakCollure, Additional Secretary HasithaSeneviratne and RohanJayatileka were also present together with the other senior officials of the Ministry, Sri Lanka Tea Board and Private sector.

SL ready to advance in $50bn beverage marketGreener times ahead...

Minister Bathuideen with his Iraq counterpart Dr. Mohommed Abdul Hakeem Alsafi

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The Industrial Policy Division’s main function is to adhere to the present government’s policies and create a competitive advantage for industries and promote sustainable industrial development in the country. Its objectives also emphasise strongly with regional development, which is promoted as a means of creating social equity and a balanced development. Certain policy changes and programmes which are necessary to achieve these targets are also proposed by this division to relevant authorities. With the above mandate the division’s activities could be broadly categorized in to the following areas.

Policy related work includes preparation of reports/articles cabinet papers and observations for the Hon. Minister.

Industrial facilitation and guidance emphasizing on environment friendly industries.

Management of Industrial Estates, assisting and monitoring the smooth functioning of Regional Industry Service Centres.

Development and encouraging industries in the regions and industrial process development.

In order to achieve the above objectives the division monitors the activities of the National Cleaner Production Centre (NCPC) and Regional Industry Service Centers. These centres act as facilitators in performing the above activities. Regarding the NCPC some of

the administrative and accounting work too is done by the division. In addition, the division gets involved in designing and monitoring programmes of the centre.

...create a competitive advantage for industries and promote sustainable industrial development in the country.

In relation to the Regional Industry Service Centers administrative and managerial functions are handled by the division. It also oversees the activities of the Industrial Associations of various Industrial Estates. These associations along with the Regional Industrial Service Centers are responsible for management of the industrial estates after completion. The environmental aspects of the Industrial Estates and other major environmental related work too is handled by the division.

With the current trends, and compliance requirements of buyers, the international conventions and protocols ratified by Sri Lanka and with the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) agreements on standards in environmental labour, social welfare, productivity and quality norms become vital. This requires the industrial sector to be more competitive in the export market, in order to fulfill these compliance requirements which are enforced by the European Community and other importers.

In order to achieve the above, it requires certain criteria to be fulfilled. Prudent environmental management, sustainable consumption of raw materials, adherence to global reporting initiatives and corporate responsibility concepts for accounting of industry related ventures are some of them. Along with these developments it has become important for the industries to obtain ISO standards such as ISO 9000, 14000, 18000 and 22000 series EMS, QMS, HACCP, ECO TEX 1000 for garment and textiles and a host of other standards. This also includes certain voluntary standards too.

The facilitation of process development industries to reach the earlier mentioned standards are implemented through the NCPC and UNIDO Focal Point Office of the Ministry. The Ministry’s activities initiated through the NCPC are given below.

A Closer Look: Industrial Policy Division - Promotes complete sustainability

Sri Lankan government is determined to develop the handloom apparels industry through a five year strategic action plan.

This was revealed at “Ransalu” (Golden wear) the Twentieth National Handloom Exhibition and Contest 2010 which was kicked off by Minister of Economic Development, Basil Rajapaksa recently.

...allow development to be distributed evenly in all provinces, all regions, all villages, all families, and all individuals. -- Minister

Addressing the distinguished gathering at Minister Rajapaksa said that the intention of President Mahinda Rajapaksa was to allow the benefits of development trickle down to grassroots. “We could have achieved necessary growth levels by having two or three large scale projects. But President Rajapaksa’s idea is to allow development to be distributed evenly in all provinces, all regions, all villages, all families, and all individuals. So development must happen at family level.”

...the government was successful in securing an investment into apparels industry amounting over Rs. 8.3bn (US $ 75mn).

Minister Rajapaksa added that the government after heralding in an era of peace has brought into the country phenomenal growth through infrastructure development in highways, ports and aviation, power and energy.

He said that during the day itself the government was successful in securing an investment into apparels industry amounting over Rs. 8.3bn (US $ 75mn). “I am confident that the government will be able to achieve its handloom industry targets as Minister Rishad Baduitheen was a dynamic and young leader along with a committed team,” the Minister added.

Speaking at the occasion Minister of Industries and Commerce, Rishad Bathiudeen, said that the government was thoroughly focused on developing the textile industry through a five-year strategic plan.

Steps and studies to further uproar the coir machinery will be conducted in the Department of Mechanical Engineering of the University of Moratuwa.

An exposure visit for coir industries and coir related machinery manufacturers will be organized in order to improve the local coir industry.

The ministry will work together with the ministry of Plantation Industries to establish a proper mechanism of supplying raw materials to the value added coir industry.

Processed Food SectorTraining and awareness programmes to encourage food processing industries to obtain food safety certificates such as Hazard Analysis will also be carried out.

“Ransalu” (Golden Wear) the Twentieth National Handloom Exhibition and Contest 2010

Lanka’s handloom: Dress for success. Hon. Basil Rajapaksa admiring one of the exhibits, accompanied by Hon. Rishad Bathuideen, Hon. Jayarathne Herath Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce Ministry and Mr. Tilak Collure Secretary to the Ministry

Competitive yet colourful advantage

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Promoting Sri Lanka abroad: Points of ContactHon. Rishad BathuideenMinister Ministry of Industry and Commerce 73/1 Galle RoadColombo 03Tel: +94112431671Email: [email protected] Website: http://www.industry.gov.lk

Mr. Tilak Collure SecretaryMinistry of Industry & Commerce Tel: 011-2436124 Fax:011-2449402Email: [email protected] / [email protected]

DepartmentsSri Lanka Export Development Boardwww.srilankabusiness.com

Department of Commercewww.doc.gov.lk

National Intellectual Property Office of Sri Lanka www.nipo.gov.lk

National Enterprise Development Authoritywww.neda.lk

Sri Lanka Institute of Textile and Apparelwww.textile-clothing.lk

Department of the Registrar of Companieswww.drc.gov.lk

Kahatagaha Graphite Lanka Limitedwww.kgraphite.lk

Department of Commerce – Mr. Gomi Senadhira, Director-General Department of Commerce.4 th Floor, “Rakshana Mandiraya”, 21, Vauxhall Street, Colombo 02Tel: +94-11-2329733Fax: +94 11 2382490 90 / +94-11-2430233email: [email protected]

Overseas Commercial RepresentationAustralia/SydneyMr. P. D.Fernando Consul-General Consulate General of Sri Lanka Level 11, 48, Hunter Street , Sydney 2000Tel Nos.: (02) 9223 8729 / (02) 92238742 Direct No. : (02) 92352582 E-mail: [email protected]@@bigpond.com Website: www.slcgsyd.com

Belgium / BrusselsMr. R.D.S. Kumararatne - Minister (Commercial & Economic Affairs)Embassy of Sri Lanka Jules Lejeunestraat, 27 1050 - Brussels BELGIUMTel: 32-2-344 5394 & 3445585 Direct No. (02) 344 55 23Fax: 32-2-344 6737 E-mail: [email protected] [email protected]: www.srilankaembassy.be

Canada/TorontoMR. H.M.B, Herath - Act. Consul GeneralConsulate General of Sri Lanka No.40, St. Clair Avenue West Suite 405Toronto-Ontario M4VIM2, CANADA Tel; 001-1-416 3239133 (direct) Fax: 001-1-416 3233205 E-mail: [email protected] [email protected]@bellnet.ca

China/BeijingMs. S Ariyaratne - First Secretary (Commercial) Embassy of Sri Lanka No. 3 Jian Hua Lu Beijing-Postal Code 100600, CHINATel: 00-86-10 - 65321862, 65321861 Fax: 00-86-10 - 65325426 E-mail: [email protected] / [email protected]

Egypt / CairoMr. D.D. Premaratne - First Secretary (Commercial) Embassy of Sri Lanka No. 8, Sri Lanka Street Zamalek, Cairo, EGYPTTel : 00-20-2 27351381, 27350047 Fax: (202) 7367138 E-mail : [email protected]

France/ParisMs. Yoshitha Jayasuriya - Third Secretary (Commercial) Embassy of Sri Lanka 16, rue Spontini 75016 Paris , FRANCETel. : (0033) 155730375 / 155733131Fax : (0033) 155731849 E-mail : [email protected]

Germany/Frankfurt Consulate General of Sri LankaLyoner Str. 34Tower 2 - 7th Floor60528 Frankfurt / Main GERMANYTel: 0049 69-660539813Fax: 0049 69-660539899Email: [email protected]

India/MumbaiMs. Upekkha Samarathunga - Consul General Consulate General of Sri Lanka 34, Homi Modi Street Mumbai 400 023, INDIATel: 00-91-22-22042339, 22045861 ,22048303 Fax: 00-91-22-22876132 Email: [email protected]

India/Chennai Mr. Samantha Wijesekara - First Secretary (Commercial) Deputy High Commission of Sri Lanka No.196 TTK Road , Alwaroet Chennai 600 006 INDIATel: 91 44 24987896 / 24987612 Fax: 91 44 24987894 E-mail: [email protected]@dataone.in

Italy / RomeMs. Gothami Indikadahena - Minister (Commercial)Sri Lanka Embassy, Via Adige 2, 00198 Rome , ITALYTel: 0039-06 8840801/068554560 Fax: 0039-0684241670 Email: [email protected] [email protected]

Japan / TokyoMr. M Somasena - First Secretary (Commercial) Embassy of Sri Lanka 2-1-54 Takanawa,Minato-ku Tokyo - 108-0074, JAPANTel: 81-3-3440 6916, 3440 6912 Fax: 81-3-3440 6914 E-mail: [email protected]@mba.sphere.ne.jp [email protected]

Malaysia / Kuala LumpurMrs. Shafi Mohin - Minister(Commercial)Sri Lanka High Commission No. 12, Jalan Keranji Dua Off Jalan Kedongdong Jalan Ampang Hilir 55000 Kuala Lumpur MALAYSIATel: + 603-4256 8987 / 4257 1394 Fax: + 603-4253 2497 Email: [email protected]

Pakistan / KarachiMr. D.W. Jinadasa - Cónsul GeneralConsulate General of Sri Lanka 20/1, 18th Street Khayaban-e-Shamsheer, Phase V D H A , Karachi, PAKISTANTel: + 92-21-35857471 / 35346614 Fax: + 92-21-3585 7472 Email: [email protected]

Republic of Korea/SeoulMr. Y.M.C. D Yattogoda - First Secretary Embassy of Sri Lanka 229-18, Itaewon-dongYongsan-guSeoul 140-202, Republic of KoreaTel: 00-82-2 735-2966 Fax: 00-82-2 737-9577Email: [email protected]

Russia / MoscowMs. Chandima Abeyratne - Third Secretary (Commercial) Embassy of Sri Lanka Ulitsa Schepkhina 24, Moscow , RUSSIATel: +7-495-6881620/6881651Fax: +7-495-6881757 Email: [email protected]@com2com.ru

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia / RiyadhMr. W A P Sirimanna - Third Secretary (Commercial)Embassy of Sri Lanka

P.O.Box 94360 Riyadh 11693, KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIATel: 9661 4608251 / 4606906 Fax: 9661 4608846 E-mail: [email protected]

SingaporeMr.D.G.A.P.Dharmapriya - Minister (Commercial) High Commission of Sri Lanka #13 - 07/12 Goldhill Plaza 51 Newton Rd, 308900, SINGAPORETel : +65 6254 4595 Direct: +65-6250 8662 Fax - +65 62507201 Email: [email protected]@lanka.com.sg

South Africa / PretoriaMs. Nalika Kodikara - Third Secretary (Commercial)Sri Lanka High Commission No 410, Alexander Street , Brooklyn, Pretoria 0181, SOUTH AFRICATel: 0027 12 3466 453 (D) 0027 12 4607 679/ 90 (Gen.) Fax: 0027 12 4607 702 E-mail: trade@ srilanka.co.za

Sweden / StockholmMr. L G Dissanayake - Third Secretary (Commercial)Embassy of Sri Lanka Strandvägen 39, 1tr Box 24055 ,10450, Stockholm ,SWEDENTP: 0046 8 6676154 (Direct) 0046 8 6636523/25 (General) Fax: 0046 8 6600089 Email: [email protected] [email protected]

Switzerland / GenevaDr. A. Dayaratna Silva - Ambassador/PR to WTO Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka in Geneva 56, rue de Moillebeau 1209 Geneva , SWITZERLANDTel : +41.22.919.12.50/58Fax : +41.22.734.90.84E-mail : [email protected]: www.lankamission.org

Switzerland / Geneva Ms. Lakmini Peiris - First Secretary (Commercial) Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka in Geneva 56, rue de Moillebeau 1209 Geneva , SWITZERLAND .Tel : +41.22.919.12.50Fax : +41.22.734.90.84E-mail : [email protected]@lankamission.org

United Arab Emirates / DubaiMr. M M Abdul Raheem - Consul General Consulate General of Sri Lanka P.O. Box 51528 Dubai, UNITED ARAB EMIRATESTel. No: +971-4- 3989880 Fax No: +971-4- 3984687 E-mail: [email protected]

United Kingdom / LondonMrs. S.N.I. Wijeratne - Minister (Commercial)High Commission of Sri Lanka No. 13 Hyde Park Gardens London W2 2LUU, UNITED KINGDOM Tel: +44-207 262 1841-6, 3996 (direct) Fax: + 44-207-262 7970 Email:[email protected]@slhc-london.co.uk

United Kingdom / LondonMr. A.P.J.N. Kumara - First Secretary (Commercial)High Commission of Sri Lanka No. 13 Hyde Park Gardens London W2 2LUU, UNITED KINGDOMTel: +44-207 262 1841-6, 2883Fax: + 44-207-262 7970 Email: [email protected] / [email protected]

United States of America / WashingtonMr. A.G.N. Karunathilake - Minister (Commercial) Embassy of Sri Lanka 2148 Wyoming Avenue NW Washington DC 20008, UNITED STATES OF AMERICATel: 1-202-483-4026 1-202-483 4029 Fax: 1-202-232-7181, 483-8017 E-mail: [email protected] / [email protected]

United States of America / Los AngelesMr. Asoka Godawita - Consul (Commercial) Consulate General Embassy of Sri Lanka 3250, Wilshire Boulevard Suite# 1405 , Los Angeles CA 90010UNITED STATES OF AMERICA Tel: 00-1-213-3870210/ 214 Fax: 1-323-3870216 E-mail: [email protected] / [email protected]

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Tea SectorFollowing the decision of the advisory council for tea, the Tea Research Institute (TRI) and Sri Lanka Tea Board (SLTB) will implement the following project proposals with the assistance of the ministry.

Establishment of pesticide residue levels in Sri Lankan tea under good agricultural practices

Increasing value addition by protecting and enforcing Intellectual property Rights on regional Ceylon teas in overseas markets under the TRIPS (Trade Related Intellectual Property System Agreement of the WTO on Geographical Indication (GI)

Enhancing value addition by recognizing Ceylon tea as the cleanest tea in the world in terms of pesticide by International Standards Organization.

By establishing pesticide residue levels in Sri Lankan tea cultivated under good agricultural practices, this division expects to provide data on pesticide residue levels of Sri Lankan tea to the high end markets such as Japan, European Union and USA to prove that Ceylon tea is the cleanest tea. This would help to increase the passage of Sri Lankan tea to these markets and increase the market share for “Ceylon Tea”.

The GI registration will result in safeguarding the tea produced in Sri Lanka from adulteration and from being sold under different names in other markets. This would ensure the overall export market for Ceylon Tea.Furthermore, the ministry is planning to organize a special forum consisting of tea producers and exporters to facilitate and encourage them for value added tea exports. This will also include the provision of tax concessions to import tea processing machinery (which are used for value addition) and to import necessary raw materials duty free.

Coir SectorSteps and studies to further uproar the coir machinery will be conducted in the Department of Mechanical Engineering of the University of Moratuwa.

An exposure visit for coir industries and coir related machinery manufacturers will be organized in order to improve the local coir industry.

The ministry will work together with the ministry of Plantation Industries to establish a proper mechanism of supplying raw materials to the value added coir industry.

Processed Food SectorTraining and awareness programmes to encourage food processing industries to obtain food safety certificates such as Hazard Analysis will also be carried out.

Plans for 2011 - Development Division 1 Plans to steer Tea and Coir sector towards greater success

Valuable land plots with infrastructure facilities such as Water supply, electricity, Telecommunication facilities & Wide road network are available on Long Term Lease basis in following Industrial Parks.

Industrial Park Plot size Number of Plots available

Embilipitiya Industrial Estate

40 - 78 perches 14 Plots




Bata-atha Industrial Estate (Ambalantota)

2 acres 1 Plot

2.5 acres 5 Plots

Karandeniya Industrial Park (Gasmanhandiya)


1 - 1.5 acres 3 Plots

Lakshauyana Industrial Estate Stage II (Polonnaruwa)

80-120 perches 16 Plots

1.5 acres 12 Plots

Industrial Park Plot size Number of Plots available

Nalanda Ellawala Industrial Estate 2nd Stage (Kuruwita)

80-160 perches 9 Plots

Nalanda Industrial Estate (Naula - Matale)--

40 perches 6 Plots

80 perches 2 Plots

1 acre 1 Plot

Nawagampura Industrial Estate (Ampara)


80 perches 6 Plots

Puttalam Industrial Estate

1 - 1.5 acres 7 Plots

2 acres 1 Plot

Ulapane Industrial Estate

1 acre 1 Plot

20 perches 1 Plot

40 perches 1 Plot

Interested investors should forward the applications with following details:

Name, Address, Tel / Fax Numbers, Nature of Industry, Desired Location of the Industrial Estate, Extent of the Land required, Employment generation and other relevent information.

Director (Regional Industrial Development)Ministry of Industry & Commerce73/1, Galle Road, Colombo 03. Telephone : 011 2441490Fax : 011 2423965

Land for IndustriesPrime land in industrial parks beckons prospective investors

Seeking overseas markets

Valuable state land available for development

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Investing in post-war Sri LankaMeetings with International Trade Delegations

The US, Iraq, Korea and Iran meet to discuss investment and bilateral trade

Kunming Fair gives Sri Lanka its due place

Distinct slot for Sri Lanka and Special Invitation for Minister Bathiudeen

Park Young June, Vice Minister, Ministry of Knowledge and Economy, South Korea (covering energy, Industry, Commerce, IT and Post) made a courtesy call on Rishard Bathiudeen, Minister of Industries and Commerce on 23 February.

Minister June led a 30 member High powered delegation including South Korean Governmental officials and business leaders to Sri Lanka during 22 – 24 February 2011.

Iraqi Minister of Trade Dr. Safa Al-Deen Mohammed Abdul Hakeem Al-Safi, headed the Iraqi delegation at the Seventh Session of Sri Lanka- Iraq Joint Committee for Economic and Technical Co-operation on October 21,2011.

The 9th Joint Economy and Trade Cooperation Committee meeting between Iran and Sri Lanka, was held from the 13th to the 15th of September.

The Iranian Commerce Minister Mehdi Ghazanfari led Iranian delegation. In the meeting the two countries commerce ministers signed six MOUs and cooperation agreements in the fields of customs, sisterhood between Shahid Rajaei and Colombo ports and acceptance of each other’s maritime certificates.

The second Sri Lanka US Public Private Partnership conference was held in Colombo recently. The conference aims to promote closer linkages between the private sector business leaders of the United States and Sri Lanka and to involve their maximum participation in the post conflict development initiatives launched by the Government.

The conference is a productive exercise in harnessing emerging opportunities in Sri Lanka to make it a dynamic economic hub,” Industry.

Industry and Commerce Minister Rishad Bathiudeen has been officially handed over a ministerial level invitation to the forthcoming Kunming by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) Vice Chairperson Huang Shah.

According to well-informed sources, China the second largest supplier of goods to Sri Lanka will also allocate a special area for Sri Lanka in the forthcoming Kunming International Trade Fair.

The Fourth South Asian Countries Business Forum and Trade Fair will be held from June 5 to June 10 at Kunming which is a well-known transportation hub in South Western China, located in the Yunnan Province.

Minister Rishad Bathiudeen went on to observe recently that China has become an important market for Sri Lanka. “Under Asia Pacific Trade Agreement, Sri Lankan exporters have been able to enter into the Chinese market. Our exports in China have shown a significant growth of 50 percent in 2010 compared to 2009 having increased the value of Sri Lanka’s exports from US $59 million in 2009 to US $ 80 million in 2010,” observed the erudite Minister .

China is planning to provide favourable policies for custom clearance and inland transportation for exports coming from Sri Lanka. It will also allocate a special area for Sri Lanka in the forthcoming Kunming international trade fair and will give 100 free booths for Sri Lanka at this fair, said Ms. Huang Shah, Vice Chairperson of China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT), addressing Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Industry and Commerce.

Minister Bathiudeen promptly assured: ‘Sri Lanka will have exceptional participation at the forthcoming international fair.”

Ms Shah revealed the above on Tuesday March 22 on the occasion of the official handing over of the Chinese Ministerial level invitation to Minister Rishad Bathiudeen

(Minister of Industry and Commerce) for the fourth South Asian Trade Fair to be held in June in Kunming, China. The fourth South Asian Countries’ business forum and trade fair will be held from 5 June to 10th June at Kunming. Kunming is a well-known transportation hub in Southwestern China, located within the Yunnan Province. The Ministry of Commerce of China with the Yunnan Provincial Government has invited Minister Bathiudeen to take part in the exhibition from 6th to 10th June 2011 and the Business Forum held from 5th to 7th June 2011.

Minister Bathiudeen, addressing the delegation revealed that China is the second largest supplier of goods to Sri Lanka. “Today China has become important market for Sri Lanka and under Asia-Pacific Trade Agreement; Sri Lankan exporters have been able to enter into Chinese market China is the second largest supplier of goods to Sri Lanka. Our exports to China has shown a significant growth of 50 % in 2010 compared to 2009 having increased value of Sri Lanka’s exports from US $ 59 million 2009 to US $ 80 Million in 2010” the Minister said. “In our export promotion drive, it is very important for us to actively participate at International Trade Fairs. In this context, I greatly appreciate Kunming Trade Fair Authorities for extending an invitation to Sri Lanka for the third consecutive year” he added.

Minister Bathiudeen assured: “My Ministry will extend its fullest cooperation and we will hopefully ensure this year Sri Lanka’s participation will be exceptional.” The South Asian Countries Trade Fair (SACTF) is an annual trade fair organized in parallel to the China Import and Export Fair known as the Kunming Fair and it is exclusively limited to South Asian countries. A three day Business Forum is also organized to coincide with the Trade Fair. Last year Sri Lanka pavilion won the best country pavilion award at the SACTF.

This year Sri Lanka expects to take over hundred Sri Lankan exporters for this prestigious event. “Sri Lanka has been actively participating this fair and was able to shown very positive results” Minister Bathiudeen said.

Also present on the occasion were Ms. Xu Lei (Staff , China Kunming Import and Export Fair Office), Mr. Yin Dong (Vice Chief of International Relations & Membership Affairs Division of China Council for the promotion of International Trade, Yunnan Sub-Council) and Mr Bao Yaxiong (Vice Chief of International Exchange Division, Yunnan Foreign Affairs Office) and Deshabandu Macky Hashim, Immediate Past President of SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Extending a friendly invitation

Sri Lanka’s apparel industry will be launching an industry growth drive industry growth in 2011 and an awareness campaign, to increase apparel export incomes to US $five billion in 2015. “Sri Lanka’s apparel industry continues to manufacture world renowned quality apparels for global brands. It has adhered to ethical practices and environment standards. The industry has a huge potential to become a US $ five billion industry. Towards this, further facilities will be arranged to promote entrepot trade involving imports processing and re-exports as well as transshipment business in apparel clothing. Incentives have been given business to promote textile, apparel and leather product related high value added activities. As such, machinery and equipment to manufacture textile, leather footwearand bags will be exempted from import duties and VAT.

The government also plans to attract leading buyers to establish their headquarters in Sri Lanka fro management, finance, supply chain and billing operations. I also propose to exempt foreign exchange earnings from such activities from income taxes. In order to promote these activities the exchange control requirements and Custom procedures will be simplified,” said President Mahinda Rajapaksa in the budget speech in November 2010.

In addition, the government’s latest development policy framework, based on the Mahinda Chinthanaya from Department of National Planning of the Ministry of Finance and planning, titled ‘Sri Lanka, the Emerging Wonder Asia, has also earmarked the apparel industry for growth.

The National development policy framework notes that the apparel and textile industry is a significant contributor to the Sri Lankan economy with the highest Nett foreign exchange earnings. In 2009, export incomes from the sector accounted for 46% of total export incomes of the country at US$ 3.262 billion.

The policy framework notes that the local apparel manufacturers must develop new products to overcome increasing competition in International markets and to remain competitive.

“Three textile processing zones will be established in order to enhance the value addition in apparel exports. Special emphasis will be paid to product diversification and to produce raw fabrics,other raw materials and accessories to feed the apparel industry, “states the Sri Lanka,the Emerging Wonder of Asia policyframework.The industry has already positioned itself as an ethical manufacturer of apparel among its local and international stakeholders.

“As pioneers in ethical business practices, passionate advocates of Garments without Guilt, and home to the world’s first green factories.it is obvious how committed we are towards our social and ecological responsibilities.” said the Secretary General of Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF), Mr. Tuli Cooray

Mr. Cooray notes that Sri Lanka has always been among the most progressive in the world, when it comes to ecological awareness and responsibility. With numerous programmes that include marine conservation and preservation, Sri Lanka has always stepped up for the environment it has been observed.

The Sri Lankan apparel industry also offers three other major advantageous to international buyers. The first and foremost being the speed of delivery,based on Sri Lanka’s unique geographical location , the industry’s vertical integration and inter connectivity within the country.

“From manufacturing to logistics, Sri Lanka Apparel has learned to cut timelines, offering our clients the benefit of faster turnaround’ he said.The second strong point of the industry is its ability to supply world class products through the latest technologies and the capacity to innovate.

“With a strong focus on building up design capabilities, the latest technologies and the capacity to innovate, Sri Lanka Apparel has been offering client’s world class products for over a decades” Mr. Cooray added.

The third advantage offered by the apparel industry is Sri Lanka’s favorable business policies and investor climate, he pointed out.

President Rajapaksa paves the way with budget speech for:

The apparel industry to be a cut above

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