Sri Lanka apparel sector makes strong showing at Source Fashion London 2026

Sri Lanka’s apparel industry made a strong and impactful presence at Source Fashion London 2026, held from 13 to 15 January at Olympia London, reinforcing the country’s position as a reliable and competitive global sourcing destination.

The Sri Lanka Pavilion, comprising 20 stalls and featuring leading apparel manufacturers including 12 small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs), was organised by the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) in collaboration with the Sri Lanka High Commission in the UK. The initiative aimed to identify new buyers and strengthen Sri Lanka’s apparel exports to the UK market.

The participation was particularly significant as Sri Lankan garment exports gained duty-free access to the UK market from 1 January 2026. Under the newly liberalised trade framework, Sri Lankan manufacturers are now permitted to source up to 100% of inputs from any country worldwide while continuing to enjoy duty-free entry into the UK. 

The revised rules remove earlier constraints, including the requirement for two substantial manufacturing processes to be carried out locally, thereby enhancing flexibility, competitiveness, and cost efficiency for exporters.

The exhibition was ceremonially inaugurated on 13 January, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Sri Lanka Pavilion attended by Sri Lankan High Commissioner to the UK Nimal Senadheera, UK Trade Envoy to Sri Lanka Lord Hannett of Everton, and EDB Board Director Binupa Liyanage, along with invitees, Sri Lankan exhibitors, and officials from the High Commission and the EDB.

The pavilion showcased exhibitors from the apparel, textile, and accessories sectors, highlighting Sri Lanka’s diverse manufacturing capabilities and strong adherence to international quality, ethical, and sustainability standards. A dedicated stall promoting Creative Sri Lanka 2030 was also featured, providing a platform for five Sri Lankan creative industry brands to display their products. The initiative underscored Sri Lanka’s innovation, craftsmanship, and design excellence while creating new opportunities for creative sector brands to engage with international buyers.

A key highlight of the event was the unveiling of Sri Lanka’s National Export Brand, “Your Vital Island,” on the opening day. Built on the core values of sustainability, competence, and authenticity, the brand represents the essence of Sri Lanka’s export offerings and marked a significant milestone for the national export sector.

In addition to the main exhibition, several parallel events—including catwalk sessions, panel discussions, and guest speaker forums—added further vibrancy. Selected products from Sri Lankan companies were featured in catwalk shows, offering enhanced visibility among international buyers and fashion industry stakeholders.

Demonstrating Sri Lanka’s readiness to meet the evolving demands of the global apparel industry, Star Garments Ltd., Director Operations and Sri Lanka Apparel Exporters Association Deputy Chairman Jeevith Senaratne, participated as a panellist at a discussion titled “Intelligent Fashion – Using AI to Design, Plan, and Produce Better.” 

He highlighted Sri Lanka’s forward-looking approach and growing adoption of advanced technologies in apparel manufacturing.

As the apex organisation for export development and promotion, the EDB continues to pursue innovative strategies to strengthen Sri Lanka’s global market presence. 

The country’s successful participation at Source Fashion London 2026 reflects this commitment, with a clear focus on expanding apparel exports to the UK by leveraging the UK Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS) and positioning Sri Lanka as a sustainable, ethical, and competitive sourcing destination.