The Export Development Board (EDB) recently held a high-level meeting to discuss the critical issues faced by exporters of major products to middle east market due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East region.

The primary objective of the session was to identify potential support and assistance that the EDB, in collaboration with other relevant institutions, could provide to ensure a smooth continuation of export operations during this volatile period

The gathering brought together representatives from key export sector associations, including those specializing in tea, spices, fruits and vegetables, food and beverages, coconut-based products etc.

Notable private sector exporter association including Sri Lanka Food Processors Association, Spices and Allied Products Producers and Traders Association, Lanka Fruit & Vegetable Producers Processors and Exporters Association together with government institutional participants of Sri Lanka Tea Board & Department of Fisheries & Aquatic Resources emphasized unified approach to safeguarding interest of the export industry. In addition to sector-specific associations Sri Lanka Freight Forwarders Association & Ceylon Association of Shipping Agents too participated & discussed about mitigating supply chain disruptions.

By facilitating this dialogue, the EDB aimed to establish a framework for ongoing assistance to help exporters overcome current regional challenges and to take these concerns at the upcoming Export Development Council of Ministers Meeting (EDCM).