SLAMERP celebrates 40 years of strengthening rubber products export industry

The Sri Lanka Association of Manufacturers and Exporters of Rubber Products (SLAMERP) recently celebrated its 40th Anniversary, marking four decades of contribution to the growth and global recognition of Sri Lanka’s value-added rubber products industry.

The commemorative event brought together key industry leaders, Government officials, and stakeholders to reflect on the association’s journey since its establishment in 1986. Over the past four decades, SLAMERP has evolved from a small collective of industry pioneers into the apex body representing one of Sri Lanka’s most innovative and globally competitive manufacturing sectors. The event also featured a special recognition ceremony for past presidents of the association, honouring their leadership and contributions towards strengthening the rubber products industry over the years.

Among the distinguished attendees were Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Minister Sunil Handunnetti, EDB Chairman Mangala Wijesinghe, senior Government officials, past SLAMERP Presidents, industry leaders, local and overseas business partners and member companies of the association.

The current Board of Management of SLAMERP for 2026/27 comprises Chairman - Pushpika Janadheera, Vice Chairman - Chinthaka Wegapitiya, Secretary - Channa De Silva, Treasurer - Palika Chandrajeewa, and Director General - Sisira Ranatunga, who continue to steer the association in strengthening Sri Lanka’s rubber products export sector.

Sri Lanka’s rubber products sector remains one of the country’s most important export industries, currently ranking as the third-largest export revenue contributor. The sector reached a milestone of $ 1 billion in export revenue, highlighting the industry’s resilience and international competitiveness.

Sri Lanka continues to maintain its global reputation for manufacturing high-quality value-added rubber products including tyres, gloves, moulded rubber components, mattresses and pillows, automotive parts, and sports goods. The country is also recognised as a global leader in solid tyre manufacturing, supplying approximately 30% of global demand to internationally renowned brands.

Speaking at the event, Chairman Pushpika Janadheera reflected on the industry’s journey and future direction. “For four decades, SLAMERP has played a vital role in strengthening Sri Lanka’s rubber products industry and positioning it as a globally respected manufacturing sector. As we look ahead, our focus will be on driving innovation, strengthening sustainability, and preparing our workforce for the age of advanced manufacturing and automation. Our vision is to build an industry that is globally competitive, environmentally responsible, and capable of delivering long-term value to the national economy,” he said.

SLAMERP has worked closely with the Sri Lanka Export Development Board and other industry partners to promote Sri Lanka’s rubber exports, facilitate market access, and strengthen industry capabilities through training, certification programs, and international market exposure initiatives. The association also works directly with Government agencies in policy development to strengthen local manufacturing and support the growth of Sri Lanka’s export-oriented rubber products industry.

As the association celebrates this milestone, it continues to focus on expanding export markets, encouraging innovation and research, and supporting the next phase of growth for Sri Lanka’s rubber products industry.