By: Staff Writer July 15, Colombo (LNW): The apparel industry has faced global economic challenges, yet Sri Lanka has gained significant success in exporting to Italy. In 2013, Sri Lanka’s apparel exports to Italy were valued at $408 million, representing 9% of the total $4.3 billion in exports.
By 2023, this figure increased by 38% to $563.5 million, accounting for nearly 12% of Sri Lanka’s total apparel exports. Over the past two decades, while overall Sri Lankan apparel exports grew by 86%, exports to Italy surged by 658%, making Italy the largest buyer of Sri Lankan apparel in the EU.
Italy’s appreciation for quality craftsmanship has driven this growth. A key player in this success is Omega Line Ltd., which has been instrumental in fostering close ties with the Italian market.
Omega Line was established in 1999 when the Calzedonia Group, founded by Italian entrepreneur Sandro Veronesi, sought alternatives to sourcing from Eastern Europe. Positive recommendations about Sri Lanka’s work ethic and commitment helped secure a $350 million investment, starting with a factory employing 55 people. As Calzedonia expanded to over 5,500 outlets worldwide, Omega Line grew to employ around 15,500 people.
Omega Line’s expansion included the launch of Sirio Ltd. in 2002, followed by a dedicated plant for men’s briefs in 2005 and Alpha Apparels in 2007, which focused on men’s briefs and t-shirts. Additionally, the establishment of Benji, a facility for local production of .
