The Small and Medium Garments Exporters Association (SMGEA) has urged the Sri Lankan government to provide them with concessions outlined in a prompt manner to restore the apparel sector and the livelihoods of over 100,000 families dependent on this important industry, which brings in much-needed foreign exchange. The association claims they have not received the relief package agreed on by President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and the Government.

Some members are also struggling to pay the salaries for the month of March as buyers have already suspended payments for goods exported. As the world economy is facing a major blow like no one has ever witnessed, the Sri Lankan export sector is also paying hefty prices in the time of the COVID-19 pandemic. The apparel sector, which accounts for a substantial portion of the country’s export income, has taken a massive blow due to the coronavirus situation, which has brought the entire world to a halt.