August 11, Colombo (LNW): Efforts to deepen trade relations between India and Sri Lanka in the textile sector have gained new momentum, following a recent visit by a high-level Indian industry delegation aimed at fostering long-term collaboration and sustainable growth within the regional fabric and garment industries.
Led by the Powerloom Development and Export Promotion Council (PDEXCIL), the delegation comprised senior representatives of India’s fabric and home textile export sector.
The group engaged in a series of meetings with Sri Lankan stakeholders, including textile importers, apparel manufacturers, and industry associations, with a focus on building direct trade channels, forming business-to-business linkages, and participating in future trade events and exhibitions.
K. Sakthivel, Chairman of PDEXCIL, reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to cultivating enduring trade partnerships across South Asia. In a statement issued following the visit, he emphasised that closer cooperation between the two neighbouring nations could bring mutual benefit, particularly in the areas of innovation, sustainable manufacturing, and market access.
Mr Sakthivel was also acknowledged for his longstanding contributions to cross-border textile engagement, particularly through his decade-long involvement in Intex South Asia, one of the region’s prominent industry platforms.
During the visit, the delegation held discussions with Sri Lanka’s Minister of Industries, focusing on strategies to encourage joint ventures, improve supply chain integration, promote skill development, and adopt environmentally responsible textile practices.
The talks also touched on the importance of bilateral knowledge-sharing and the need to modernise logistical frameworks to enhance competitiveness in global markets.
In Colombo, the Indian delegation was received by the High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka. The meeting served as an opportunity to highlight India’s strengths in the textile domain—especially in powerloom and home textile production—whilst reinforcing the vision of deeper regional economic engagement.
Amongst the delegates were PDEXCIL Vice Chairman Chandrasekar, Export Panel Convener Bharath Chhajer, and key members of the Fabric Exporters Association, all of whom represent some of India’s leading textile exporters.
*With inputs from The Hindu
