In a key initiative to strengthen trade and technological collaboration, the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) and Business Sweden, together with Team Sweden comprising the Embassy of Sweden, Consul General of Sweden in Sri Lanka and the Sri Lanka Food Processors Association hosted a virtual meeting on March 11, 2025. The session focused on advancements in the food processing sector, bringing together industry leaders, government officials, and experts from both countries to discuss opportunities, challenges, and future avenues for cooperation.

Ms. Sofia Högman, Trade & Invest Commissioner of Sweden to India, opened the session, emphasizing the potential of combining Sri Lanka’s agricultural strengths with Sweden’s cutting-edge food processing technologies. Special addresses by H.E. Jan Thesleff, Ambassador of Sweden to India, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal and Sri Lanka and Mr. Mangala Wijesinghe, Chairman and CEO of the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB), underscored the importance of fostering long-term partnerships in the food and beverage (F&B) sector.

Ms. Saumya Kannangara, Acting Director/ Market Development at EDB, highlighted Sri Lanka’s key focus areas, ambitions, and challenges in expanding F&B exports. Complementing this, Mr. Delano Diaz, former President of the Sri Lanka Food Processors Association, along with representatives from the Sri Lanka Food Processors Association (SLFPA), provided insights into the industry's current landscape of Food and Beverage industry and the need for advancements in food safety, quality control, and sustainable production.

Sweden’s expertise was showcased through a presentation by Mr. Pawan Tahlani, Market Manager, Business Sweden, who detailed past collaborations and trade engagements. Additionally, Mr. Magnus Davidsson from the Swedish Institute for Standards (SIS) outlined key regulatory requirements for exporting F&B products to Sweden, guiding Sri Lankan exporters on aligning with European standards.

A highlight of the event was a series of presentations by leading Swedish companies, introducing innovative solutions in food processing and packaging. These advancements, focusing on automation, waste reduction, and efficiency, present valuable opportunities for Sri Lankan exporters aiming for global market expansion.

The discussions reinforced the need for ongoing technology transfer, skill development programs, and joint ventures to enhance Sri Lanka’s food processing capabilities. Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening trade ties, facilitating knowledge exchange, and exploring investment prospects. Moving forward, Sri Lanka aims to integrate Swedish technologies into its food production processes, while Sweden recognizes Sri Lanka as a strategic partner in sustainable food exports.

This collaboration marks a significant milestone in Sri Lanka’s food processing industry, paving the way for enhanced trade, improved food standards, and a stronger global market presence.