Welcoming the UK government's recent announcement of liberalized rules of origin under the Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS), the Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF) hailed it as a major boost for Sri Lanka's apparel industry.
The new reforms will permit Sri Lankan manufacturers to source up to 100 per cent of their garment inputs from any country worldwide while still benefiting from duty-free access to the UK market, says Yohan Lawrence, Secretary General, JAAF, This change reduces processing restrictions and aligns Sri Lanka's apparel sector with the ‘Comprehensive Preferences’ enjoyed by other nations under the DCTS, he adds.
The UK is one of the most important export destinations for Sri Lankan apparel. Lawrence opines, the simplified rules will allow manufacturers to be more competitive globally, diversify their sourcing strategies, and maintain consistent access to UK buyers. The changes also reinforce Sri Lanka's reputation as a reliable, value-added supplier within global fashion supply chains.
By removing sourcing restrictions, the UK has leveled the playing field for Sri Lankan manufacturers, giving them the flexibility to provide greater value to both global brands and UK consumers, Lawrence notes. The reforms will lead to expanded trade, enhanced industry competitiveness, and the creation of more jobs within the sector, he anticipates.
The JAAF also acknowledged the collaborative efforts of the UK High Commission, the Department of Commerce, and the Sri Lankan apparel industry in advocating for this positive change. The new rules are expected to increase exports, improve efficiency, and strengthen the long-standing trade partnership between the two nations. As Sri Lanka's largest export earner, the apparel industry, which employs over 350,000 people directly and supports over a million livelihoods, relies on such liberalized trade agreements to drive the country's economic recovery and long-term growth.
