Giving Back | Sri Lanka Apparel Exporters Association

Empowering Women in Apparel

Women are at the heart of Sri Lanka’s apparel industry, driving the transformation and opportunity across the nation. Beyond providing employment, the sector opens doors to leadership, financial independence and continuous skill development.

Through comprehension training programs, financial literacy initiatives and strong support within the community, women are growing into confident decision makers, shaping not only their workplaces but also their communities.

The unwavering commitment to inclusivity has made Sri Lanka’s apparel industry a global benchmark for gender equality and inclusive economic growth. Principles that resonate strongly with leading international brands and set a standard for the world to follow.

Garments Without Guilt

Where ethics inspire every stitch.
In Sri Lanka, apparel isn’t just made, it’s crafted with conscience. Every garment carries the story of a workforce treated with dignity, a planet cared for with responsibility, and a promise of quality without compromise.

We believe fashion should empower, not exploit.
That’s why our member manufacturers uphold fair wages, safe working environments, and equal opportunities across every level of production. Our processes are built on integrity, respect, and innovation -never shortcuts.

Sustainability is part of who we are from energy-efficient factories and responsible sourcing to waste reduction and environmental stewardship. Because true style should never come at the planet’s expense.

The “Garment Without Guilt” certification, issued by the Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF), stands as a seal of ethical compliance and social accountability. It recognizes manufacturers who meet rigorous standards in labour rights, environmental sustainability, and ethical business practices, showcasing Sri Lanka as a global leader in responsible apparel manufacturing.

This is not a slogan it’s a commitment woven into every fabric we create. When you choose Sri Lankan apparel, you choose a product that’s ethical, authentic, and proudly made without guilt.

“Garment Without Guilt — Crafted with conscience. Worn with pride.

Sustainability in Action

Sustainability drives the future of Sri Lanka’s apparel industry. The sector is leading the way with investments in renewable energy, circular business models, and low-carbon production to meet the evolving demands of global standards.

Key milestones highlight this commitment:

World’s first custom-built green apparel factory
Asia’s first CarbonNeutral® Certified factory
17 LEED-certified manufacturing facilities
World’s first Passive House apparel factory

By embedding sustainability throughout the supply chain, Sri Lanka delivers transparent, traceable, and responsible solutions that meet the highest global ESG expectations, setting a benchmark for apparel manufacturing worldwide.

Innovation with Purpose

Driving sustainable change through technology and creativity.

Sri Lanka’s apparel industry is leading a revolution in fashion. Driven by purpose, innovation and sustainability, it is transforming the way the world thinks about apparel. Here materials are smarter, factories are greener, and every garment tells a story of ethical practice.

From biodegradable fabrics to smart textiles and low-impact production methods, Sri Lanka is turning responsibility into creativity, proving that sustainability and innovation can go hand in hand. Collaborating with R&D centers, universities, and global brands, the industry is breaking new ground with:

Carbon-cutting technologies
Closed-loop water and waste systems
Sustainable, export-ready product lines
AI- and IoT-driven smart factories

This is more than manufacturing, it’s a movement. A movement that positions Sri Lanka as a global pioneer of ethical, technologically advanced, and resilient fashion, shaping the future of the industry for generations to come.

Our Commitment to Compliance, Integrity, and Global Standards

GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) – Covers production, processing, manufacturing, packaging, labeling, export, import, and distribution of all-natural fibers.
Worldwide Responsible Apparel Production (WRAP) – Certificates of compliance ensuring lawful, humane, and ethical manufacturing.
Fair Trade Certification – Ensures ethical sourcing and social sustainability across the apparel supply chain.
Global Security Verification (C-TPAT) – Issued by Intertek (2010) for enhanced global supply chain security.
ISO 9001:2015 (Certification of Approval) – Issued by SLSI, ensuring quality management systems and continuous improvement.
Certificate of Conformity (2001) – Issued by the Sri Lanka Apparel Exporters Association, affirming adherence to industry best practices.
The Higg Index – Developed by the Sustainable Apparel Coalition to measure sustainability performance across the value chain.