As South Asia’s textile and apparel industry continues to strengthen regional collaboration, a 10-member business delegation from Sri Lanka participated in Intex Bangladesh 2026, exploring new sourcing opportunities and business partnerships with Bangladesh’s vibrant textile and apparel sector.
Bangladesh and Sri Lanka are two important players in the regional textile value chain. Through innovation, sustainability, sourcing, and strategic partnerships, both countries have enormous potential to create greater value and strengthen regional competitiveness.
The delegation included Waduvidanelaigedara Sirimawathi Pathirathna of Samadhi (Pvt) Ltd, Malmuthuge Chamila Sampath Piyarathna of Priyarathna Textile, Fernando Mahasinhage Nirosa Wasana of A2 Products, Liyanaarachchige Don Kularathna Liyanaarachchi of Liyanarachchi Traders, Brito Sebestiyan Pulle Ahesha Jeewanthi of Tiyana Fashion, Weerasekarage Ramya Kumuduni of Heshani Gem and Textile, Dissanayake Mudiyanselage Shiranthi Dissanayake and Jayasinghe Kanchana Prasad of Shakthi Knitwear, Konganige Chamini Priyanthika Anthony of C C P Anthony, and Alahakoon Ralalage Gamini Athula Alahakoon of Alahakoon Enterprises.
During an interaction with Fashion Business Journal, the delegates expressed strong interest in expanding sourcing relationships with Bangladeshi manufacturers, particularly for fabrics, knitwear materials, yarns, accessories, and other textile inputs.
The discussions reflected the growing economic ties between the two countries. According to official Sri Lankan trade data, bilateral trade reached a record US$325.33 million in 2024, up from US$240.50 million in 2023. Sri Lanka exported US$241.54 million worth of goods to Bangladesh, while imports from Bangladesh stood at US$83.79 million, highlighting the increasing importance of bilateral commerce.
The textile and apparel sector remains one of the strongest pillars of Bangladesh–Sri Lanka economic cooperation. Sri Lanka’s major exports to Bangladesh include knitted fabrics, yarn, woven fabrics, and other textile inputs, while Bangladesh exports undergarments, T-shirts, women’s and men’s outerwear, woven fabrics, and pharmaceutical products to Sri Lanka.
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Several delegates noted that although they currently source materials from China, India, and Vietnam, Bangladesh is emerging as a highly competitive alternative due to its manufacturing capacity, product diversity, quality standards, and geographical proximity.
“Bangladesh has a strong manufacturing base with impressive production capacity and product diversity. We are looking for reliable manufacturers and suppliers for fabrics, T-shirt materials, accessories, and home textile products,” the delegate said.
The delegates said the exhibition enabled them to establish direct contacts with manufacturers and suppliers, opening new opportunities for long-term sourcing partnerships while reducing dependence on intermediaries.
Many of the participating companies are engaged in textiles, knitwear, fashion products, batik items, garments, and trading businesses, with several planning to expand beyond the Sri Lankan domestic market through regional collaboration.
The participants also praised the organization of Intex Bangladesh 2026, describing the exhibition as an effective platform for connecting businesses across South Asia and facilitating meaningful industry partnerships.
“We have already established several valuable business contacts here. Direct sourcing from Bangladesh can help us improve efficiency and reduce costs for our business in Sri Lanka,” they said.
Speaking during the discussion, representatives of Fashion Business Journal, the official media partner of Intex Bangladesh 2026, highlighted the publication’s role in connecting manufacturers, exporters, buyers, brands, and policymakers across the textile and apparel value chain.
The delegates welcomed the opportunity for future engagement with the platform, recognizing the importance of specialized industry media in promoting companies, showcasing products, and strengthening business networks between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.
The discussions concluded with a shared optimism that deeper cooperation in sourcing, innovation, sustainability, and trade promotion will further strengthen the Bangladesh–Sri Lanka textile partnership and contribute to the long-term growth of South Asia’s apparel and textile industry.
