Apparel manufacturers in Sri Lanka have partnered with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), and the Global Language of Business (GS1) on a new transparency, traceability and accountability initiative. The programme will introduce a singular QR code that can be affixed to every clothing item with the aim of providing consumers with access to wide range of information about the provenance of the garment.
This will include brand details, supply chain transparency, product specifications, materials used, care instructions, compliance information, recycling guidelines, and the comprehensive tracking and tracing of the entire supply chain.
Similar to a standard tag, the initiative is designed to be easily understandable by authorities, brands and consumers and, according to the team behind development, is particularly significant for the country’s apparel industry, given the growing importance of increasing its access to global markets.
“This initiative establishes that Sri Lanka is not just a sourcing destination, but a business hub that sets new standards for accessibility and transparency,” the initiative’s stakeholders said in a joint statement. “With the global north tightening sustainability legislation, Sri Lanka’s apparel industry is stepping up. The pressure is on to align with evolving legal frameworks from major export destinations including the US, EU, and the UK.
“Sri Lanka is responding with a resounding ‘yes’ to the call for complete supply chain traceability.”
At this point, the programme is still in its prototype stage with stakeholders exploring the necessary elements for commercialisation.
The current focus is on evaluating the requisites for achieving widespread adoption of the new technology within the supply chain. This includes facilitating approval from buyers – such as brands and retailers – and adhering to standards set out by the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB), the independent sustainability disclosure body of the IFRS Foundation non-profit, which works to bring transparency, accountability and efficiency to markets around the world.
“This collaboration underscores the capability of Sri Lanka’s apparel industry to work collectively for the greater good and highlights a new era of cooperation among diverse stakeholders,” the statement added.
