MAS Holdings wants to create an established presence in India and bolster its production capabilities within the region.
The establishment of this plant is anticipated to provide substantial benefits to MAS’ broader network, predominantly based in Sri Lanka, by fostering stronger regional collaborations that are conducive to growth and business prospects.
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The company plans to transform the 60-acre site into a comprehensive apparel hub by collaborating with strategic partners to enhance its presence in the Indian state of Odisha.
The new facility will prioritise the manufacture of high-value apparel suited to both Indian and global markets.
The venture is set to capitalise on India’s robust manufacturing environment while drawing upon MAS’ established operational power in Sri Lanka.
MAS India CEO Malik Ahamadeen said: “MAS is excited to take this important step in creating a strong apparel ecosystem in the region. This is enabled by our extensive experience in managing holistic apparel industrial zones in Sri Lanka and bringing together key partners along the apparel supply chain.”
MAS Holdings operates across 14 countries with a workforce of 100,000. The company has grown its portfolio to include wearable technology, FemTech, start-ups, logistics, and fabric parks, in addition to lingerie, sportswear, and swimwear.
The conglomerate also has design locations in key global style centres to support its expanded operations.
MAS GCEO Suren Fernando said: “This investment marks a significant milestone in MAS’ journey, and we are excited to leverage the vast business opportunities the venture presents. India has long been an integral part of our operations, and with 25 years of experience operating in India, we recognise the immense potential of the country’s manufacturing landscape, both for the global supply chain and the rapidly growing domestic retail sector.”
In 2022, the company revealed plans to increase its presence in South and Southeast Asia. The company stated at the time that it was on track to significantly expand its production capabilities in India with plans to increase capacity twofold by the year 2024.
In June last year, MAS signed a three-year-long supply deal with US-based materials science company Ambercycle for its recycled polyester material Cycora.
In January this year, the Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF) revealed Sri Lanka’s apparel exports grew nearly 5% reaching $4.7bn in 2024 and exceeded $5bn when combined with direct textiles exports.
