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Asahi Dyes Strengthens Sri Lanka’s Textile Chemical Base

• By  Textile Excellence
• August 15, 2026

Sri Lanka is taking another step up the textile value chain with the opening of a US$ 20.4 million textile chemical plant in Biyagama. Asahi Dyes and Chemicals SL has commissioned the facility at the Biyagama Export Processing Zone, creating 281 direct jobs and adding local manufacturing capacity for textile dyes, printing chemicals and finishing chemicals.

The project brings together Japan’s Asahi Dyes and Chemicals and Sri Lanka’s Asons Ltd, combining Japanese technology and manufacturing expertise with local production. The facility will supply Sri Lanka’s apparel industry and export markets across Asia and Southeast Asia.

The move could strengthen Sri Lanka’s apparel ecosystem by reducing dependence on imported chemical inputs, shortening supply chains and improving supply reliability. For textile processors and garment exporters, local access to specialised chemicals can mean faster turnaround and tighter quality control.

Technology transfer is another important part of the project. Asahi Dyes brings experience in specialty chemicals and textile dyes, with operations in Japan, China and Vietnam. The Sri Lankan facility is expected to introduce Japanese manufacturing practices, engineering expertise and quality systems into the local industry.

The facility has also been developed to LEED v4 BD+C standards, incorporating water conservation, energy optimisation, advanced wastewater treatment and carbon-reduction measures.

Technology transfer is another important part of the project. Asahi Dyes brings experience in specialty chemicals and textile dyes, with operations in Japan, China and Vietnam. The Sri Lankan facility is expected to introduce Japanese manufacturing practices, engineering expertise and quality systems into the local industry. The facility has also been developed to LEED v4 BD+C standards, incorporating water conservation, energy optimisation, advanced wastewater treatment and carbon-reduction measures.