Ample scope for giftware industry in EU

Ramani KANGARAARACHCHI

Sri Lanka needs to build fashion and creative cultures that innovate new products, business models and services, Export Development Board Chairman Janaka Ratnayake told Daily News Business.

Designer Natalie Dissel

He said most Sri Lankan industries have to widen its marketing focus with high value addition to remain competitive internationally and position Sri Lanka in the niche market segment.

The main constraint faced by the SMEs manufacturing giftware in the provinces is little or no exposure to the international market requirements.

Therefore, production remains supply driven and traditional in terms of design. Sri Lanka’s inherent craftsmanship, cultural diversity and rich natural resources provide the base for wide range of giftware and decorative articles.

The demand for giftware in the EU alone is around US$ 13 billion which clearly indicates the market potential. Sri Lanka presently exports around US$ 20 million of giftware mainly to Germany, USA, UK and the Netherlands.

The international market demand for special products of proven quality holds ample scope for the development of giftware industry ensuring returns in foreign exchange.

The EDB has invited a group of well-known craft designers to work with the traditional craft villages in developing a unique Sri Lankan giftware and craft selection made out of brass, rush and reed, palmyra, wood, paper, hemp, clay and textiles recently.

This is to support traditional craftsmen to develop new designs and products to cater to the niche international market. EDB will be playing a major role in this project by organizing ‘Sri Lanka Design Festival 2010’ with the Academy of Design and other private and public stakeholder.

EDB will be organizing a high profiled delegation of buyers and retailers, journalists and designers, to create awareness among buyers on Sri Lanka’s competitiveness, professionalism, enhanced service, innovation and talent. The EDB will also work closely with Natalie Dissel, a well-known UK based jewellery designer, who is in Sri Lanka now.