Specialized giftware development program:

EDB organizes Sri Lanka Design Festival

Indunil HEWAGE

The Export Development Board (EDB) has initiated a specialized giftware development program to build second tier of exporters capable of catering to the niche market while generating more job opportunities for rural youth to enhance their income level.

The EDB has also obtained the services of 11 designers from Europe and USA who have come to Sri Lanka to develop the design talents of the SME craft sector in the country.

These designers are now working with craftsmen in many parts of the country developing a globally competitive unique novelty range of giftware and crafts collection by incorporating the innovativeness of the designers with the expertise of local artisans.

Sri Lankan apparel industry is expected to record US $4 billion by 2015. It is also hopeful it will reach US $3.5 billion before the end of 2010.

The apparel industry export revenue from January to August 2010 has reported US $2,071 million.

Currently, the apparel sector accounts for 46 percent of the country’s total exports.

Each year, the apparel industry needs to increase its export revenue by US $1 billion. It has been recognized by the international market for its capability to manufacture quality products. However, we need to do much more in the fields of design and fashion while giving due recognition to the people engaged in the industry.

Much effort is needed to promote labelling, designing and branding in the apparel sector with value addition in order to get a premium price for apparel products,” Export Development Board (EDB) Chairman Janaka Ratnayake said addressing a media conference held to announce the ‘Sri Lanka Design Festival 2010’.

He said craft sector plays a prominent role in the economic mainstream in the country similar to the apparel sector and it is capable of attracting talents and skills of the rural sector into the export efforts of the country.