The Fabric and Apparel Accessory Manufacturer’s Association (FAAMA), a subsidiary association of the Joint Apparel Association Forum of Sri Lanka (JAAF), hosted its 17th Annual General Meeting (AGM) 2024, at Jetwing Colombo Seven on October 29.
The chief guest was the Deputy Chief of Mission, U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka, Doug Sonnek and the guest of honour was Chairman of JAAF, Saif Jafferjee.
Representatives of JAAF member associations including JAAF Secretary General Yohan Lawrence, BOI Director General Mrs. Renuka M. Weerakoon and Director General of the Central Environmental Authority, P.B. Hemantha Jayasinghe were also present.
Outgoing Chairman Pubudu de Silva outlined the association’s progress over the past financial year ending March 31, 2024. He highlighted several challenges faced by the textile and apparel industry due to uncertain global demand, brought about by geopolitical tensions and economic fluctuation. He said that these challenges greatly impacted supply chains and costs of raw material. Despite these challenges, Sri Lanka’s apparel was the largest contributor to the local economy.
He outlined FAAMA’s pivotal role in the apparel industry, emphasising the fact that the association is working closely with stakeholders and government to implement favourable policies for the apparel industry. The Association would continue its focus on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives such as beach clean ups and ocean strainers. FAAMA hopes to strengthen its partnership with JAAF and further expand global demand for Sri Lankan apparel, he said.
Chairman of JAAF, Saif Jafferjee said the JAAF, in spite of the challenges, will continue to collaborate with FAAMA to strengthen the apparel industry and turn Sri Lanka’s apparel industry into an USD $8 billion industry over the next two years.
Chief guest, Deputy Chief of Mission, U.S. Embassy, Doug Sonnek said, “The United States is proud to be Sri Lanka’s top export market, with $2.8 billion in goods exported to the U.S. in 2023. Organisations such as FAAMA play a critical role in strengthening our bilateral economic relations.
By promoting good governance, supporting workers’ rights, and advancing environmental sustainability, FAAMA is not only driving the apparel industry forward but also contributing to Sri Lanka’s long-term economic resilience and growth. The United States looks forward to continuing our partnership to create opportunities and prosperity for both our nations.”
The new office-bearers: Chairman Samal Dissanaike, Secretary Shahid Sangani, Treasurer Suranga Gallage, Vice Chair 1 Niroshan Samarasinghe, Vice Chair 2 Vasu Wijegoonawardene.
Exco members: Beauno Fernando, Jonah Goh, Husni Salieh, Chamila Bakmeewewa, Sanjaya Weerasinghe, Harin Gabriel, Shehan Olegarasam.
