SLAMERP 40 years rubber products export industry marks a significant milestone as the Sri Lanka Association of Manufacturers and Exporters of Rubber Products celebrates four decades of advancing one of the country’s most globally competitive sectors.
SLAMERP 40 years rubber products export industry milestone strengthens global presence
The anniversary event brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to reflect on the association’s journey since its establishment in 1986. Over the years, Sri Lanka Association of Manufacturers and Exporters of Rubber Products has grown from a small collective of pioneers into the apex body representing Sri Lanka’s value-added rubber products industry.
The celebration was attended by key figures including Sunil Handunnetti, Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, and Mangala Wijesinghe, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Export Development Board. Past presidents, industry leaders, overseas partners, and member companies also participated, underscoring the sector’s strong network and collaborative foundation.
Over the past four decades, the SLAMERP 40 years rubber products export industry journey has been closely aligned with Sri Lanka’s broader industrial and export development strategy. The sector has steadily evolved into one of the country’s most important export earners, currently ranking as the third-largest contributor to export revenue.
The industry recently achieved a major milestone by surpassing $1 billion in export revenue, highlighting its resilience and sustained global demand. Sri Lanka has built a strong reputation for producing high-quality value-added rubber products, including tyres, industrial gloves, moulded components, mattresses, pillows, automotive parts, and sports goods.
A particularly notable achievement is the country’s position as a global leader in solid tyre manufacturing, supplying approximately 30% of global demand to internationally recognised brands. This success reflects not only manufacturing expertise but also the ability to meet stringent international quality standards.
The significance of SLAMERP 40 years rubber products export industry also lies in its role in fostering innovation and technological advancement. The association has consistently worked to enhance industry capabilities through training programs, certification initiatives, and exposure to international markets.
Speaking at the event, Chairman Pushpika Janadheera highlighted the association’s long-term vision. He emphasized the importance of driving innovation, strengthening sustainability, and preparing the workforce for the next phase of industrial transformation, including automation and advanced manufacturing technologies.
The current leadership team, including Vice Chairman Chinthaka Wegapitiya, Secretary Channa De Silva, Treasurer Palika Chandrajeewa, and Director General Sisira Ranatunga, is focused on steering the sector toward greater global competitiveness.
Collaboration has been a key pillar of the association’s success. SLAMERP has maintained close partnerships with the Sri Lanka Export Development Board and other government agencies to promote exports, improve market access, and support policy development. These efforts have helped create an enabling environment for manufacturers to scale operations and compete internationally.
The evolution of the rubber products sector also reflects broader shifts in global manufacturing, where value addition and specialization are increasingly critical. Sri Lanka’s ability to move beyond raw material exports to high-value finished goods has positioned the country as a reliable supplier in global supply chains.
As the SLAMERP 40 years rubber products export industry milestone is celebrated, industry stakeholders are also looking ahead to new opportunities and challenges. Expanding into emerging markets, investing in research and development, and adopting sustainable manufacturing practices are expected to be key priorities in the coming years.
Sustainability, in particular, is gaining importance as global buyers place greater emphasis on environmentally responsible production. The industry is increasingly adopting eco-friendly processes and materials to meet these expectations while maintaining competitiveness.
The association’s role in shaping policy and industry standards remains critical. By working closely with government bodies, SLAMERP continues to advocate for measures that support local manufacturing, enhance export competitiveness, and attract investment into the sector.
Looking forward, the continued success of Sri Lanka’s rubber products industry will depend on its ability to innovate, adapt to changing market dynamics, and maintain high standards of quality and reliability. The foundation built over the past four decades provides a strong platform for future growth.
The milestone of SLAMERP 40 years rubber products export industry not only celebrates past achievements but also signals a forward-looking agenda aimed at sustaining growth, strengthening global partnerships, and contributing to Sri Lanka’s economic development.