The country is now in a position to derive full benefit from its inherent strengths and need to emphasis on value addition for more foreign exchange and quality, Export Development and International Trade Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris said.

Three exhibitions targeting the textile and apparel industry commenced at the Exhibition and Convention Centre (SLECC), Colombo yesterday.

The exhibition is an ideal platform to showcase Sri Lankan products where exhibitors, consumers and suppliers could meet under one roof.

The apparel sector needs to focus on quality as it will be the key to the future, Prof. Peiris said.

The Government has issued a document to retrieve GSP+ facility, aimed at an amicable settlement, he said.

“This is the best chance the country has to secure the facility,” Sri Lanka Apparel Association Deputy Chairman Rohan Abeykoon said.

The three exhibitions held are “Textech Sri Lanka 2010 International Expo”, Sri Lanka’s International Textile Garment Technology and Machinery Expo; “4th Dye+Chem Sri Lanka 2010 International Expo”, an exclusive international exhibition on dyes and fine and specialty chemicals and “Colombo International Yarn and fabric Show 2010,” targeted not only to the textile and apparel sector, but also the entire export sector.

These exhibitions were organized by CEMS - Conference and Exhibition Management Services USA in association with CEMS-India.

Exhibitors from 10 countries are participating in these exhibitions which are targeted the entire business community.(DN)