Sri Lanka initiates digital promotions to revive exports

07 Jul '20

2 min read

Pic: Shutterstock

The Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) recently implemented a digital export promotion programme to address the negative impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on exports as its scheduled export promotion programmes are on hold due to the pandemic and new promotional activities are being accelerated with a new plan of action for the next two quarters.

The digital programme includes provision of market information, organising webinars on market requirements and current trends, organising virtual business-to-business (B2B) meetings and participation in virtual trade fairs. The first virtual B2B meeting was held between a Brazilian company and Lion Brewery (Ceylon) PLC on June 11.

Extensive market information, Including current market scenario, export logistical readiness, new regulations, new market opportunities and emerging distribution and supply channels, was disseminated last April, giving updated information on the foreign markets in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Sri Lankan media reports.

A new web page has also been created in the EDB website and 59 reports have been published on the main markets for Sri Lankan export products.

These are being frequently updated using information received from the Sri Lanka missions overseas.

A webinar on Food and Drug Authority (FDA) requirements for personal protective equipment (PPE) for the US market was conducted for the apparel sector in collaboration with the US Embassy in Sri Lanka, USAID and the Joint Apparel Association Forum, Sri Lanka (JAAF).

EDB has selected 15 sectors to organise virtual B2B meetings with the ministry of foreign relations and Sri Lanka Missions. Electrical & electronics, boat building, ceramic & porcelain, coconut products, Ayurveda & spa products and printing sectors will be considered for the initial round of B2Bs.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS)