By a special correspondent
Sri Lanka’s textile and apparel sector is gaining momentum in sustainable manufacturing, as MAS Holdings expands internationally recognised environmental standards across its supply chain. The company recently confirmed that two of its production facilities Texco Ltd. and Noyon Lanka have secured certification under the bluesign System Partner programme.
The development marks a notable shift not just for the company, but for the broader industry, as it highlights increasing alignment with global expectations on responsible production. With these additions, three-quarters of MAS’s wet processing operations now comply with one of the most stringent frameworks for chemical management and environmental safety.
Unlike conventional certifications, the bluesign system evaluates the entire production chain—from raw material input to finished textile output. Facilities must demonstrate strict control over chemical usage while ensuring worker safety and minimising environmental harm. This approach has made the certification particularly relevant for global brands seeking transparent and ethical sourcing partners.
Texco Ltd., which specialises in cotton fabric processing, and Noyon Lanka, known for knitted lace manufacturing, underwent extensive independent audits before receiving approval. Their operations were assessed across multiple stages, including dyeing, finishing, and material treatment processes areas often associated with high environmental impact.
The certification also introduces advanced digital oversight into daily operations. Through bluesign tools such as CUBE, FINDER, and GUIDE, the facilities can monitor chemical inputs, track performance metrics, and continuously improve efficiency. This data-driven approach is increasingly becoming essential in modern manufacturing, where traceability and accountability are key competitive factors.
For Sri Lanka’s apparel industry, the move reflects a broader transition toward value-added manufacturing. Rather than competing solely on cost, companies are investing in sustainability credentials to meet the expectations of international buyers and regulators. Analysts suggest that such certifications could help local manufacturers secure stronger partnerships with global fashion brands focused on environmental responsibility.
MAS Holdings has been steadily building this trajectory. Its earlier milestone in 2023 when MAS Fabrics Intimo became Asia’s first seamless textile mill to achieve bluesign System Partner status set the stage for wider adoption across its network.
The latest expansion signals that sustainability is no longer confined to isolated facilities but is being integrated across the supply chain. This holistic approach not only reduces environmental impact but also enhances resilience in a rapidly evolving global market.
As demand grows for ethically produced garments, Sri Lanka’s ability to align with systems like bluesign could play a critical role in maintaining its competitive edge while advancing industry-wide environmental standards.