Modern Challenges and Opportunities for the Apparel Industry: JAAF drives industry dialogue

The Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF), in collaboration with Monash Business School and the Postgraduate Institute of Management (PIM) successfully hosted the International Conference on the Apparel Industry 2025 recently in Colombo. This was the second time the event was held, following its inaugural edition in 2018, as part of JAAF’s commitment to fostering dialogue and collaboration within the global apparel sector.

Themed “Modern Challenges and Opportunities for the Apparel Industry”, the three-day event brought together industry leaders, academics, and sustainability experts to discuss pressing issues such as ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) compliance, circular economy strategies, technological advancements, and workforce transformation.

A key highlight of the event was the panel discussion on “Current Actions and Their Impact on ESG-Related Outcomes in the Apparel Industry,” featuring:

Felix A. Fernando – CEO, Omega Line Ltd.

Nemanthie Kooragamage – Director Group Sustainable Business, MAS Holdings

Gayan Ranasinghe – Control Union,

Chamindry Saparamadu – Director General/CEO, Sustainable Development Council

Pyumi Sumanasekara – Principal Partner, KPMG Sri Lanka

Discussions emphasized how Sri Lanka’s apparel industry is adapting to global ESG standards, incorporating sustainable production methods, and aligning with evolving regulatory frameworks.