UK Trade Envoy visits MAS Holdings to strengthen bilateral ties

Monday, 2 June 2025 05:06 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

UK Trade Envoy to Sri Lanka Lord John Hannett of Everton last week visited MAS Holdings’ Silueta facility in Biyagama.

The visit, facilitated by the British High Commission, aimed to offer the UK delegation a deeper understanding of Sri Lanka’s apparel industry and MAS’ contribution to it.

During the visit, Lord Hannett and representatives from the UK’s Department for Business and Trade were briefed on the importance of Sri Lanka’s apparel sector to the country’s export economy, as well as of MAS’ global presence, product innovation, and commitment to sustainability. This was followed by a walkthrough of the facility, showcasing MAS’ product and tech capabilities.

Among the officials present were UK Department for Business and Trade UK Trade Envoy Relationship Manager – APAC and South Asia Shameema Yusuf, British High Commission Colombo Director of Trade – Sri Lanka Mara Waters, and Deputy Head of Trade and Investment Asanthi Fernando. They were accompanied by MAS Holdings Director – Corporate Affairs Rajitha Jayasuriya and MAS Silueta Chief Executive Officer Ranesh Handunnetti.

Lord John Hannett expressed his appreciation for the scientific and technical expertise that goes into creating high quality garments and, experienced first-hand, MAS’ product craftsmanship and process innovation. He also commended MAS for its strong foundation of values, appreciating how the company maintains these principles even when operating across different countries and cultures.

The engagement is a timely step towards strengthening bilateral trade ties and further positioning Sri Lanka as a hub for responsible apparel innovation and a strategic sourcing partner to the UK.