Local apparel exporters to showcase at UK’s Source Fashion event ahead of new trade scheme

The Export Development Board (EDB) said it will facilitate the participation of local apparel firms at the Source Fashion Exhibition in the United Kingdom in January 2026, aiming to leverage market access opportunities under Britain’s Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS).

The new scheme, due to take effect in early 2026, will ease rules of origin, allowing a wider range of Sri Lankan garment products to qualify for zero tariffs even if inputs are sourced from other Asian and African countries, the EDB said in a notice.

According to the official website of the UK Government, the DCTS is set to cut tariffs, remove conditions and simplify trading rules for 65 developing countries, to boost development in these countries as well as offer benefits to UK’s businesses and consumers–by reducing the import cost of thousands of products from around the world.

Key benefits for Sri Lanka from this exposure will include significantly lower production costs, increased sourcing flexibility and enhanced competitiveness. 

UK’s Source Fashion Exhibition is the country’s premier sourcing exhibition, and it sees the participation of more than a 1000 UK and European retailers such as Tesco, ASOS and John Lewis. 

At the Source Fashion exhibition buyers connect with global manufacturers and suppliers, and there is a special focus on responsible sourcing. The exhibition prides itself on being a place where designers are inspired, sourcing directors can discuss supply chain directly with manufacturers, and technologists can find high-quality fabrics, yarns and accessories among other things.

This year’s exhibition saw a 51 percent increase in visitors compared to last year, with over 3200 attendees from 22 countries participating. It also showcased several high end brands such as Chanel, Birkenstock, M&S, Paul Smith and Burberry.

The EDB invites exporters and potential exporters and services related to the apparel sector to participate, and it has proposed to select 25-30 apparel exporters. This includes 10-15 small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

While the EDB expects all participants to cover the cost of their airfare, accommodation and other expenses, it may consider meeting 50 percent of the cost of the constructed booth for SMEs. (SD)

Deadline for the applications is September 15, 2025. Further details can be found on the EDB’s website and social media pages.