Sri Lanka Advances Textile Sustainability with GTEX-ITC Circular Economy Initiative
A major sustainability initiative is reshaping Sri Lanka's textile industry as the country implements an extensive training program focused on circular economy practices. The four-day program, launched under the GTEX Phase II initiative, represents a collaborative effort between the International Trade Centre (search) (ITC) and the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (search) to advance textile sustainability in the region.
Comprehensive Training for Industry Transformation
The program, conducted from December 16 to 19, attracted approximately 90 participants and delivered in-depth training on crucial aspects of textile circularity. Key focus areas included circular design principles, reverse logistics optimization for reuse and recycling, and advanced textile recycling technologies. The initiative began with a specialized training-of-trainers session, engaging 19 participants from academia, industry, and government sectors.
"Sustainability is no longer an option but a necessity. Through this programme, we are equipping Sri Lanka's textile industry with the tools to stay competitive in global markets while addressing the urgent need for circularity," emphasized ITC Head of Fibres, Textiles and Clothing Matthias Knappe.
Strategic Partnership and Future Goals
The program operates under the broader GTEX/MENATEX Phase II framework, a multi-country initiative supporting textile and clothing sector competitiveness across Sri Lanka, Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, and Tunisia. In Sri Lanka, the initiative has established strategic partnerships with key organizations, including the Joint Apparel Association Forum (search) (JAAF), Export Development Board (search), Central Environmental Authority (search), and University of Moratuwa (search).
Yohan Lawrence, JAAF Secretary General, highlighted the initiative's significance: "This initiative reinforces Sri Lanka's commitment to building a responsible, future-ready textile sector. It's an important step toward aligning our industry with international standards and making it more resilient to global market demands."
Scaling Sustainable Practices
Looking ahead to 2025, GTEX Sri Lanka has set an ambitious target to train approximately 500 industry professionals and students. This expansion aims to facilitate broader adoption of innovative circular business models throughout the sector. The program's comprehensive approach addresses both environmental sustainability and economic growth, aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goals while promoting job creation and poverty reduction.
"The collaboration between the local institutions, industry players and international partners ensures a holistic approach to transforming Sri Lanka's textile and clothing industry," noted Knappe. "It's about creating a more sustainable and inclusive ecosystem, which benefits everyone from manufacturers to end consumers."
Through this initiative, Sri Lanka is positioning itself as a pioneer in sustainable textile manufacturing, balancing environmental stewardship with economic development in an increasingly sustainability-conscious global market.