The Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF) and Solidaridad, a civil society organisation co-hosted a one-day workshop in Colombo recently to address the European Union’s Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD).
Introduced in 2023, the CSDDD requires companies in EU-bound supply chains to meet stringent environmental and human rights standards. While Sri Lankan suppliers are not directly mandated to comply, aligning with these standards is essential to remain competitive in the EU market, which accounts for 30% of Sri Lanka’s apparel exports. Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, and France collectively represent over 80% of these exports, further underscoring the importance of compliance.
The workshop provided local businesses with actionable insights into risk assessment, sustainability metrics, and due diligence reporting, offering a roadmap to meet evolving global expectations, a spokesman said.
An outcome was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between JAAF and Solidaridad, establishing a strategic partnership to guide Sri Lankan suppliers in meeting the CSDDD requirements. This collaboration is set to enhance the industry’s ability to maintain its status as a trusted supplier for brands prioritising sustainable sourcing.
“Sri Lanka has always been ahead of the curve in meeting global standards, viewing sustainability and ethics as integral to business success,” said Yohan Lawrence of JAAF and added, “This workshop and our partnership with Solidaridad are critical steps in enabling Sri Lankan industries to adapt to changing global trade norms. By aligning with the CSDDD, we can secure our place as a key player in the global market.”
The event was attended by European dignitaries including Deputy Head of Delegation for the EU to Sri Lanka and the Maldives, Lars Bredal and Deputy Head of Mission for the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Iwan Rutjens. They highlighted the value of proactive engagement.
