PM inaugurates Intex South Asia 2017

The third edition of Intex South Asia, the largest and only international textile sourcing show in South Asia for yarns, apparel fabrics, denims, accessories and allied services, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe at the Sri Lanka Exhibition and Convention Centre (SLECC), Colombo yesterday.

The Prime Minister said in his speech that this was the biggest and best platform for integrating with the rest of the world and accessing numerous opportunities. These kinds of events lead to constant successful integration, which is the intention of the present Government. He also mentioned that new legislation had been introduced to facilitate the growth and development of the apparel trade and this was further enhanced through the GSP+ facility. 

Sri Lanka is also expected to sign three Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with Asian governments in January next year. This is further emphasised and supported through Budget 2018, with incentives given for enterprises created in Sri Lanka with major tax exemptions. 

The Minister of Industry and Development, who also graced the occasion, said that Intex South Asia 2017 was definitely going to be a landmark event to promote, strengthen and significantly develop the export of apparel from Sri Lanka.  

Intex South Asia 2017 showcases more than 200 exhibitors from 15 countries including India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, China, Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, Switzerland, Turkey, Australia, the US and more. Buyers from over 16 countries comprising India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Dubai, the UK, Italy, Australia, Austria, Spain, Germany, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Malaysia, Uganda and Nigeria are present for this grand event.

Intex South Asia has grown since 2015 as it keeps evolving its offerings to the industry. This year the show hosts multiple seminars, with industry experts providing important analyses for better understanding of global developments and their impact on the South Asian industry.

Intex South Asia also for the first time presents Fashion Fiesta, the exclusive networking reception where 600 top industry buyers from South Asia and other regions will interact with international exhibitors. 

The show is organised in association with the Export Development Board of Sri Lanka (EDB) and endorsed by the Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF). The show is also supported by leading industry trade bodies across Asia and the Middle East. – Pix by Upul Abayasekara