Following
the liberalisation of the economy in 1977, the manufacturing
sector has recorded the most significant growth. During the
ten years from 1990 - 1999 this sector has achieved an average
growth rate of 7.7% and its contribution to GDP has been increasing
steadily. The government has developed significant incentives
for the manufacturing sector. A range of special incentives
is being offered in selected thrust industries. These include:-
Electronics
and components for electronic assembling Ceramic,
glassware and mineral based products Rubber
based industries Light
and heavy engineering industries
Within the manufacturing sector, the textile,
apparel and leather industry is presently the best performing
sector in Sri Lanka. Manufactured garments are mainly exported
to the US and Western Europe and accounts for approximately
85% of industrial output, 32% of manufacturing employment,
and over 48% of total exports. The industry is gearing up
to face ever increasing global competition as well as the
removal of the Multi Fibre Agreement in 2005. Large scale
manufacturers are preparing for the post-2005 era by focusing
on excellence in design, price, and on-time delivery.
Electronics
and components for electronic assembling
