"Made in Sri Lanka"

Marketers are always need to analyze the market condition, identify demand and supply the best possible product to the consumers. We are always talk about seasonal demand. New year, wesak, chrismas , national day or any special occasion may create an opportunity to a marketer to make money. 

We had a golden opportunity to market many related products during the recently concluded world cup.  This massive event came to the subcontinent after 15 years and we will not get it again for next 15 years too. There are 7 matches played in Sri Lanka involved our own team and thousands of people gathered to see it in three grounds. In addition to people who brought a ticket and went for the match there is many others watched it in public places. One of main products you could sell during world cup matches is “Sri Lanka flag”. I don’t think its necessary to illustrate the relevance and the high demand for our national flag during that time.  

I was there to witness the semi final between Sri Lanka Vs New Zealand and brought a Flag. I was among millions in Sri Lanka who waved it the flag proudly during the match. Once I came home I got a shock when I saw the small tag in the Flag. It says “Made in China”.

We always boost about our abilities in penetrating into world garments market but it is shame to note we import our own national flag from some other country.  

It may be cheap and convenient to import this from China but don’t you think this is reflecting our fundamentals are weak as a nation ? 

We all know the world cup is going to be happened in Sri Lanka well in advance but it seems we have not anticipate the demand for National flag and had a plan to cater to that demand. But can you imagine how vigilant China is ? Though they don’t play cricket they know what we need during the world cup. No wonder China is the economic power house in Asia.

I think it is required to have a paradigm shift in our mind set and we should have a true feeling for our own Country. I doubt how many know they have waived a Chinese made Sri Lankan flag during world cup and do our people bother even if they know it ? 

We are now fighting with Australia to win commonwealth games for Hambantota in 2018. Can we make sure the flag we are waiving in 2018 is “Made in Sri Lanka”.