B’desh travel ban props SL’s prospects in apparel sector
Britain’s travel ban to Bangladesh owing to the bloody terrorist attack two months ago has seen a flurry of apparel buyers flocking in to Colombo. “Certain big names in the apparel industry along with foreign (apparel) buying offices in Colombo have been welcoming many British apparel sourcing officials in the past two months and are hopeful of an opportunity for Sri Lanka,” a senior merchandiser at a top garment liaison office told the Business Times. She was confident that issues with Brexit will also push the British buyers to eye Sri Lanka favourably. A statement by the UK Travel Department said: “Security forces in Bangladesh remain on high alert following previous attacks.
There may be increases in security force presence and restrictions on movement may be put in place at short notice. There is heightened threat of further terrorist attacks. Attacks could be indiscriminate although foreigners, in particular westerners, may be directly targeted. Crowded areas and places where westerners are known to gather may be at higher risk of attack. You should minimise your exposure to these areas, consider your movements carefully and take appropriate security precautions.” A top apparel company’s senior manager said that they are entertaining a few British apparel buyers and hopeful that some business can be directed to Colombo.