On 27 May 2025, Lord John Hannett of Everton, UK Trade Envoy to Sri Lanka, visited the Silueta facility of MAS Holdings in Biyagama. The visit, organised with the support of the British High Commission in Colombo, was intended to deepen the UK delegation’s understanding of Sri Lanka’s apparel industry and MAS’ leadership within it.

During the engagement, Lord Hannett and representatives from the UK’s Department for Business and Trade received a detailed briefing on the critical role the apparel sector plays in Sri Lanka’s export economy. The discussions also highlighted MAS Holdings’ global footprint, its innovation-driven product development, and the company’s enduring commitment to sustainability across operations.

The delegation included Shameema Yusuf, UK Trade Envoy Relationship Manager (APAC & South Asia), Mara Waters, Director of Trade – Sri Lanka from the British High Commission Colombo, and Asanthi Fernando, Deputy Head of Trade & Investment at the same institution. The visitors were hosted by Rajitha Jayasuriya, Director - Corporate Affairs at MAS Holdings, and Ranesh Handunnetti, Chief Executive Officer of MAS Silueta.

Lord Hannett expressed admiration for the level of scientific and technical sophistication embedded in MAS’ garment production processes. He also praised the company’s product quality, innovative capabilities, and adherence to a core set of values that are upheld consistently across its global operations.

The visit marks a constructive step toward reinforcing trade ties between Sri Lanka and the United Kingdom. It also serves to position Sri Lanka more prominently as a source of responsibly produced, innovative apparel and a reliable strategic partner for the UK’s textile and fashion sectors.

www.masholdings.com