The Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB), in collaboration with the Institute for Future Creations (TIFC) and other stakeholders, including the London College of Fashion (UAL) and the Chamber of Ethical Lifestyle Enterprises (CELE), launched the “Creative Sri Lanka 2030” project at the EDB head office recently. The event brought together key stakeholders of the Government, private sector, and civil society to strategise its successful execution.
The objectives of this collaborative effort are promoting ethical, sustainable manufacturing and increasing the export of value-added, niche products, enabling the industry to make a maximum contribution to economic development.
The global creative industry stands out as one of the fastest-growing economic sectors worldwide, with high engagement of SME entrepreneurs, duly acknowledged for its importance and substantial role as a contributor to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in numerous nations.
Guests at the launch
Sri Lanka’s creative industry also has significant potential to contribute to the economy, given Sri Lanka’s inherent craftsmanship, cultural diversity, and rich natural resources. These provide the base for a wide range of creative industries such as art, crafts, design, fashion, filming, performing arts, heritage, architecture, Sri Lanka’s cuisines, and more.
To realise this potential, Sri Lanka must continuously seek new and sustainable sources of growth. This is essential to revitalise the economy and create new job opportunities that align with the aspirations of our young people.
TIFC and UAL have conducted research on “Sri Lanka’s Crafting Potential: Sustainable Trade and Development for Sri Lanka’s artisanal sector” to gain an in-depth understanding of the Sri Lankan craft sector for future interventions, with the three key pillars—innovation, collaboration, and education—in mind, and a research report has been prepared.
As part of this initiative, the EDB, in collaboration with TIFC and UAL, will be selecting ten pioneering Sri Lankan brands. These brands are set to showcase the nation’s dedication to sustainability, ethical practices, and cultural heritage on a global scale, with support from CELE and Good Life X. Chosen for their commitment to ethical standards, sustainability, and social responsibility, these ten brands will undergo a comprehensive capacity-building program.
The creative industry will be showcased at the Textile and Apparel fashion exhibition in London, backed by the Sri Lanka Apparel Sourcing Association (SLASA), Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF), and the Sri Lanka High Commission – UK.
The ‘Creative Sri Lanka 2030’ program not only seeks to promote Sri Lankan crafts internationally but also aims to make a significant impact on the local economy by fostering a sustainable business model that benefits artisans and their communities.
Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of EDB, Dr. Kingsley Bernard, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Investment Promotion, Ms. Anoja Herath, Knowledge Exchange Lead at London College of Fashion, Ms. Hannah Middleton, Co-Founder/Partner of the Institute for Future Creations, Robert Meeder and Co-Founder/Partner of the Institute for Future Creations, Ms. Sindu Holla were present.
