(2024):Launch Event at the Kingsbury Hotel on 3rd July 2024

Switzerland’s State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO in partnership with the lnternational Trade Centre (ITC) launches the “Global Programme on Textile and Clothing (GTEX2)'” in Sri Lanka. In this context, Sri Lanka’s Export Development Board (EDB) together with the Joint Apparel Association Forum Sri Lanka (JAAF) is working with Switzerland to implement the Second Phase of the Global Programme on Textile and Clothing (GTEX2) from 2024 – 2027.
This is a five-year program that includes Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, Tunisia and Sri Lanka.GTEX2 will support SME companies in Textile and Clothing industry to improve their operational capacities, including social norms and environmental sustainability, add value to existing products & services and expand exports to traditional and new markets.

EDB in collaboration with Swiss Import Promotion Programme (SIPPO) conducted a comprehensive market research study for Value added Textile products of Sri Lanka for selected EU countries. The findings of the market study was disseminated to the apparel industry through the EDB website, sent directly to companies and through webinars in collaboration with SIPPO.
After the success of this market research, the Government of Switzerland through SECO included Sri Lanka for the Second Phase of the Global Textile and Clothing Programme (GTEX2). The first phase of Global Textile and Clothing (GTEX 1) was carried out in Jordan, Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. The Second phase is with Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, Jordan and Sri Lanka.
Objective of GTEX
The EDB signed a Project Agreement with the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) to implement the GTEX2 in Sri Lanka from 2024 to 2027 for the benefit of the Sri Lankan apparel sector. The main stakeholders of GTEX2 Sri Lanka program are EDB and JAAF. The Swiss Government will fund this program and the International Trade Center (ITC) will provide technical assistance. A National Project Coordinator (NPC) has been recruited for Sri Lanka to the implement the project.
The overall goal of GTEX is to contribute to economic growth and poverty reduction through sustainable trade and decent job creation by improving sustainable production and digitalization within the Textile & Clothing value chain.
Beneficiaries of the Programme
The main beneficiaries of the program are 20-25 SMES and 3-5 Fashion designers in the Textile & Clothing Sector, Business Support Organizations (BSOs) serving the sector., Academia and related training institutions Further, government agencies will also indirectly benefit as improved regulations on environmental sustainability, digitalization and trade will improve collaboration with the private sector.
Expected outcome of the programme:
Increased export competitiveness of SMEs in the textile and clothing value chain in Sri Lanka through a technical assistance project that aims to develop and revitalize the Sri Lankan textile and clothing industry.
Create employment and income in the textiles and clothing sector.
Work directly with enterprises to improve their operational capacities, including on social norms and environmental sustainability, add value to existing products and services and expand exports into traditional and new markets.
Building lasting capacities of sector-specific trade and investment institutions to support the entire industry with improved service offerings.
The Industry at a Glance Sri Lanka’s Textile & Apparel Industry is the largest export sector of the country with export revenue of over USD 4.5 Bn. in 2023 which is 42 % of total merchandise exports. The main export markets for Sri Lankan apparel products are USA, UK and EU. Compared to the export statistics of the year 2022, it has shown a l9% drop in apparel exports in the year 2023.
The apparel industry is the largest single employer in the manufacturing industry providing direct employment opportunities to over 300,000 and 350,000 indirectly which includes a substantial number of women in Sri Lanka. Around 350 garment factories and 16 textile and fabric manufacturing units are operating in different parts in Sri Lanka.
Apparel categories span includes Sportswear, Lingerie, Loungewear, Bridal wear, Work wear, Swimwear, Children swear. USA and the United Kingdom have historically been the largest buyers of Sri Lankan apparel throughout the decades.
The industry produces high quality garments combined with an industry which is flexible and uniquely capable in servicing leading international brands such as Victoria’s Secret, Gap, Liz Claiborne, Next, Jones New York, Nike, Tommy Hilfiger, Pink, Triumph, Ann Taylor, Speedo, Abercrombie & Fitch, Land’s End, Marks & Spencer, Intimmissimi, etc.
Sri Lanka is a producer of “Garments without Guilt” the Made in Sri Lanka” label is comfortably synonymous worldwide with the values of high quality. reliability, social and

Expected outcome of the programme:

Increased export competitiveness of SMEs in the textile and clothing value chain in Sri Lanka through a technical assistance project that aims to develop and revitalize the Sri Lankan textile and clothing industr

By NELUM BUDDHADASA

Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts introduces ‘The Gathering of Giants,’ an immersive educative weekend from 9^th – 11^th  August 2024 at Cinnamon Habarana Complex, a unique event aimed to transform the annual natural phenomenon of the world’s largest gathering of Asian elephants – the ‘Elephant Gathering’ into a celebrated and educational experience for all. This spectacular gathering, recognised as the highest concentration of Asian elephants in a single location, occurs at Minneriya National Park, where the Minneriya tank sustains more than 300 elephants during the dry season.

Situated close to Minneriya National Park, Cinnamon Habarana Lodge and Habarana Village by Cinnamon (collectively known as the Cinnamon Habarana Complex) offer guests matchless opportunities to witness this awe-inspiring event. The Gathering of Giants event hosted by Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts together with Cinnamon Nature Trails and Seylan Bank, aims to treasure, conserve and celebrate this natural wonder, emphasising the need for peaceful human-elephant coexistence and effective conflict management.

Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer of Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, Hishan Singhawansha, highlighted the significance of this event, stating, “The Gathering of Giants truly symbolises our commitment to conservation and sustainability. At Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, we believe in the power of education and awareness to drive positive change. Through our collaboration with Cinnamon Nature Trails, we strive to champion conservation efforts and promote the importance of harmonious human-elephant coexistence.”

This signature event aligns perfectly with the ethos of Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts. The annual gathering, occurring from July to October, sees smaller elephant herds from surrounding habitats congregate at Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks. This congregation, fueled by the diminishing water and food resources in other areas, provides a spectacular sight as the elephants socialise, bathe, drink, feed and potentially find mates. Recognised as the sixth-largest animal gathering globally by Lonely Planet and acclaimed by BBC and CNN, this natural phenomenon offers visitors a unique and memorable experience.

Area Vice President, Sri Lanka Resorts & General Manager of Cinnamon Bentota Beach, Johan Aschan, emphasised the event’s impact, stating, “The Gathering of Giants significantly enhances the appeal of the Cinnamon Habarana Complex as a key player in sustainable tourism. By promoting this extraordinary natural event, we not only draw attention to the unique wildlife experiences Sri Lanka offers but also highlight our dedication to preserving these experiences for future generations.”

The Gathering of Giants event will feature local and international guest speakers, including a celebrated wildlife conservationist and author from India, Valmik Thapar, the Guest Speaker at the event who has dedicated over 48 years to wildlife and tiger conservation, authoring 39 books and serving on multiple government committees, including the National Board of Wildlife and the Prime Minister’s Tiger Task Force. Other leading experts speaking at the Gathering of Giants will include Dr. Prithiviraj Fernando – Chairman, Trustee and Scientist for the Center for Conservation and Research; Elephant Ethologist & Lead of the National Action Plan for Human-Elephant Conflict Mitigation Project Dr. Sumith Pilapitiya and Dr. Rohan Pethiyagoda, Sri Lankan biodiversity scientist and recent winner of the Linnean Medal. These experts will provide insights into the importance of conserving the elephant gathering and its significance to Sri Lanka.

Together with Cinnamon Nature Trails, the wildlife and nature-based tourism arm of Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, and in collaboration with Seylan Bank, the Gathering of Giants event highlights Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts’ commitment to environmental sustainability and conservation. Through strategic initiatives and educational efforts, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts aims to safeguard and celebrate the elephant gathering, ensuring it remains a cherished natural wonder for future generations.

The Gathering of Giants is not just an event; it is a testament to the beauty of nature and the importance of preserving it. By aligning the Cinnamon Habarana Complex with this extraordinary phenomenon, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts continues to promote sustainable tourism and enhance the global recognition of Sri Lanka’s unique wildlife heritage.

Image Caption:

Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts presents the Gathering of Giants (L-R): Hishan Singhawansa- Deputy CEO & Chief Operating Officer of Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, Dr. Prithiviraj Fernando – Chairman, Trustee & Scientist – Center for Conservation and Research Sri Lanka, Chitral Jayatilake – Vice President Cinnamon Nature Trails, Asiri Abhayaratne – Assistant General Manager Marketing & Sales Seylan Bank, Ruchith Liyanage – Head of Seylan Cards & Vimukthi Weeratunga – Consultant Cinnamon Nature Trails, Wildlife & Fisheries Biologist.

The Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM), the apex body for Marketing in Sri Lanka is hosting the prestigious SLIM National Sales Awards 2024 for the remarkable 24th consecutive year. To date, it is the most celebrated and anticipated event for Sri Lankan Sales Professionals and this year’s event will be hosted under the theme of ‘Heroes of Excellence”. The vision of the SLIM National Sales Awards is to recognize Sales Professionals on par with global standards.  Positioned as the Best Awards Scheme in the South Asian Region, SLIM aspires to elevate the Winners to the global stage.

The SLIM National Sales Awards recognize and rewards the performance of Sales Professionals in over 20 industries. This allow individuals to apply via their companies, based on their performance.  Today, Sales Teams have become an integral part of the growth of any business. For this reason, organizations invest heavily in Sales Resources, Technology, and Infrastructure needed to help elevate their Sales Forces. Sales Teams work in an extremely competitive environment; and by design, the SLIM National Sales Awards provide the National Level recognition that they deserve.

The categories for the SLIM National Sales Awards 2024 are Front Liners, Sales Supervisors,Sales Executives, Territory Managers, Regional Sales Managers, National Sales Managers and other Sales Support Staff. The period of review ranges from 01^stJanuary 2023 to 31^st March 2024. As with past editions of this event, this year’s event also encourages theparticipation of Female Sales Personnel as they too will be recognized and appreciated for their efforts for their organizations and industries alike. The special recognition for Female Sales Personnel is the result of SLIM’s continuous efforts to empower Women in every sector and industry in the country.

Each of the aforementioned categories in the competition comes with Gold, Silver and Bronze Awards. Additionally, overall Awards for National and Regional Sales Managers will be selected regardless of the industry they represent.  The Panel of Judges consist of expert analysts from a multitude of industries, and they determine the Winners, while the Head of the Judging Panel will have the final word in any dispute.

Mr. Gayan Perera, President, Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing shared his thoughts, “At its core, Sales Excellence is about delivering exceptional value to Customers. It goes beyond simply meeting targets or closing deals; it encompasses a deep understanding of Customer Needs, a commitment to Ethical Practices, and the ability to build long-term relationships. SLIM National Sales Awards set the ideal platform for our Sales fraternity, not only to enhance their selling skills and techniques but also to groom themselves to become charismatic Business Leaders of the future. I hope the fraternity will harness the fullest advantage of this priceless opportunity this year.”

“Sales Forces are on the frontlines of any business, and they have faced a lot of obstacles,especially over the last couple of challenging years. The need for organizations to invest in, train and inspire Sales Forces is more evident today, than ever before. The SLIM National SalesAwards make a great platform to reward these individuals on aNational level” said Mr. Nuwan Thilakawardana, Project Chairman, National Sales Awards 2024.

Dr. Dilhan Sampath Jayatilleke, Vice President – Events & Sustainability Projects, Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing also shared his thoughts, “NSA is the most sought-after event targeted for the Sales community where they get recognized for their Smart Work.  Over the years, SLIM assisted in nurturing the Sales Heroes to become superlative Leaders. We are proud to welcome more talented Sales Minds and groom them towards excellence!”

Dr. Nuwan Wimalana, Head of Jury, SLIM National Sales Awards 2024 also commented on the event, “Business entities focus on creating wealth primarily by driving Sales. The contemporary Business Models prioritize the recognition of Sales Heroes within the organization but that ends within. Happy to see the NSA by SLIM celebrating their success in the National Level motivating the entire Sales fraternity in Sri Lanka today.”

Entry Kits for the SLIM National Sales Awards 2024 can be downloaded at https://slim.lk/nationalsalesawards. All entries are to be submitted by the 25^thJuly 2024.  Limited Liability Companies, Partnerships, Public and Sole Proprietorships that are registered and carrying out business are also eligible for entry to the competition. For any further information regarding the competition, please call Gangani on 0703266988 or. Avishka on 0718417591.

Image caption: (Left to right): Dr.Dilhan Sampath Jayatilleke- VP-SLIM Events & Sustainability, Mr.Gayan Perera-President – SLIM, Dr.Nuwan Wimalana-Head of Jury and Mr.Nuwan Thilakawardhane- Project Chairman.

Hemas Holdings PLC announced the appointment of Ajith Fernando and Supun Weerasinghe as Independent Non-Executive Directors, effective 1^stJuly 2024. Additionally, Ajith Fernando will serve as a member of the Hemas Board’s Nomination and Governance Committee.These strategic appointments underscore Hemas’ commitment to enhancing governance and leveraging deep industry expertise as the Group continues its growth trajectory.

Ajith Fernando is a seasoned veteran with over 35 years in the financial sector, specializing in capital markets. He is widely recognized for his role in founding the Capital Alliance Group, where he served as CEO until December 2023, driving the firm’s expansion into Bangladesh and solidifying its position as a leading investment bank in Sri Lanka. A Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (UK) and holder of an MA in Financial Economics from the University of Colombo, Ajith’s extensive board experience includes chairmanship at Sri Lanka Technology Campus (Pvt) Ltd. and directorship in Ceylon Tea Brokers PLC and several private companies.

Supun Weerasinghe, currently Executive Director and Group CEO of Dialog Axiata PLC, is backed by over two decades of expertise and experience within the telecommunications sector. Since joining Dialog in 1999, he has held pivotal roles including Head of Strategy, CEO of Mobile Business, and Group Chief Operating Officer before assuming his current leadership position in 2017. His journey includes significant international exposure, including a tenure as Group Chief Strategy Officer at Axiata Group Berhad in Malaysia and CEO/Managing Director of Robi Axiata Limited in Bangladesh from 2014 to 2016. His leadership extends to board roles at The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce and UNGC Network, Sri Lanka. He is a Fellow Certified Management Accountant (Sri Lanka) and Fellow Member of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (UK), holds an MBA from the University of Western Sydney, Australia and is an alumnus of the Harvard Business School.

These additionsto the current Board of Hemas Holdings underscores the company’s ongoing focus on excellence in corporate governance and strategic leadership. As Hemas expands its footprint, locally and globally, across key sectors of Consumer Brands, Healthcare and Mobility, these appointments are poised to drive sustained value creation for shareholders and stakeholders alike.

Hemas further announced the retirement of Independent Non-Executive DirectorJyotindra Trivedi. He joined the Hemas Board in 2017and made a significant contribution to the Company over the years.