Sri Lanka’s apparel sector to upgrade its apparel designing to new levels has partnered with leading provider of hi-tech solutions for the global textile industry. The Lankan apparel industry for the first time has entered the 3D design platform with World’s leader in 2D and 3D apparel design software, the New York headquartered Optitex.

Minister of Industry and Commerce Rishad Bathiudeen on 23 February in Colombo while addressing the launch event of JAAF’s twin Public Private Partnership initiative, said that with world class certifications they are now supplying to many global brands such as Victoria’s Secret, and Gap. Apparel exports to the USA have been growing by 6 percent annually.

Optitex has granted its leading solution free to Sri Lanka Institute of Textile & Apparel (SLITA) under the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, so that the future Lankan designers are trained in 3D design aspects, greatly reducing Lankan apparel design costs and cycles.

The initiative is part of quality enhancement program of Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF)-apex Lankan body for its apparel and textile industry.

MoU between Sri Lanka Institute of Textile & Apparel (SLITA) and Juki and receiving of a licensed version of Optitex 3D design platform are steps in

the right direction to enhance Sri Lanka’s reputation as a leading apparel outsourcing destination in the world said Minister Bathiudeen.

SLITA under the Ministry to Industry and Commerce is the national institution that fulfils the fast track and cutting edge education needs of the country’s world class apparel industry.

Apparel is Sri Lanks’s main export taking more than 40% of their export earnings. It is also the most significant contributor to its economy. Their high quality and ethical manufacturing methods have given them this reputation.

The Ministry of Industry and Commerce realizing the importance of this industry continues with its efforts to support the sector. In the period of September 2014 to September 2015, around 474 Textile wearing apparel & leather industries were registered by Ministry, 15 new apparel factories registered in January-September 2015 and four Buying and Liaison offices registered.