The Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF) says that as representatives of the apparel industry they are not aware of any steps being taken by some of the garment manufacturers in Sri Lanka to set up factories abroad and thereby reject such false reports.
The forum also rejects claims that the industry is facing problems in launching apparel products and supplying raw materials for production.
“Factories have access to raw materials without hindrance. Furthermore, the loading or unloading of goods is done without any delay and the port operations are running smoothly. ” Said Johan Lawrence, Secretary-General of the United Apparel Associations Forum.
Mr. Lawrence also commented on the availability of fuel for factories in the midst of the current shortage.
“Since April, exporters have been allowed to purchase fuel directly from the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CEYPETCO) and the Ceylon IOC using US dollars. This has enabled garment factories to avoid unnecessary interruptions caused by power outages. With regard to the distribution of fuel, there were minor delays during the curfew period, but the bulk distribution of diesel to apparel manufacturers has resumed. Since last week, apparel exporters have been on the list of priority services for refueling at specific gas stations. With the implementation of such measures, the garment manufacturing and export industries have been able to continue their day-to-day operations despite the current fuel shortages.