Exclusive Event Unveils First-of-Its-Kind Collaboration Between Leading Sri Lankan and European Brands

The Delegation of the European Union (EU) to Sri Lanka, in partnership with the Export Development Board (EDB), launched a pioneering initiative to position Sri Lankan craft products in the international marketplace—the Creative Sri Lanka 2030: Matchmaking Pilot Program 2025. This transformative initiative aims to connect Sri Lanka’s rich craft heritage with the international market, fostering global opportunities for local brands and designers.

The launching ceremony was attended by distinguished guests, including Mr.Chaminda Pathiraja, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development; HE Bonnie Horbach, Ambassador, Netherlands Embassy in Sri Lanka; Mr. Lars Bredal, Charge d'affaires a.i, Delegation of the European Union to Sri Lanka and the Maldives, Delegation of the European Union to Sri Lanka and the Maldives; Ms. Caroline Lopes, Deputy, Political, Press and Information Section, Delegation of the European Union; Mr. Orlando Edwards, Country Head, British Council - Sri Lanka; Dr. (Ms.) Ayesha Wickramasinghe, Chairperson, National Crafts Council; Mr. Sisira Amarabandu, Chairman, National Design Centre; Mrs. Sujeeva Senanayake, Chairperson, Sri Lanka Handicrafts Board; Mr. Mangala Wijesinghe, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer; Ms. Cécile Hoorelbeke, Directress - Alliance Française de Colombo, Coordinator of the Alliances Françaises in Sri Lanka and the Maldives; and Ms. Mihaela Rutjens, Chargé d'Affaires a.i., Embassy of Romania, Mr. Arcidiacono Alberto, Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of Italy in Sri Lanka

Held at the Sri Lanka Export Development Board, this exclusive event united five leading European and UK brands with their Sri Lankan counterparts and key international experts. Discussions centered on the role of ethical trade and design collaboration in elevating Sri Lanka’s craft sector onto the global stage.

“The time is ripe to look at craft exports in a multidimensional way,” said Mr. Mangala Wijesinghe, Chairman/CEO, Export Development Board. “Sri Lanka is home to an incredible wealth of craft talent, but our creatives and artisans have often lacked the market access needed to scale their businesses globally. This collaboration serves as both a test and an opportunity—an invitation for world-class designers to co-create and partner with our finest craft makers, proving that Sri Lanka can compete in high-value export markets.”

In partnership with the Delegation of the European Union in Sri Lanka, this initiative builds upon three years of research and engagement to establish a new pipeline for craft exports. By integrating micro and SME craft enterprises into international supply chains, the program aims to expand exports and introduce Sri Lanka’s handmade traditions to a broader global audience.

“Sri Lanka’s craft sector has potential,” said Mr. Lars Bredal, Charge d'affaires a.i, Delegation of the European Union to Sri Lanka and the Maldives . This initiative is about inclusion, sustainability, and ensuring that traditional crafts thrive in the modern economy. We are working with the EDB to make Sri Lankan crafts truly export ready. ”

During the event, stakeholders explored how Sri Lanka could redefine its position in global craft and design. European and Sri Lankan designers shared insights on ethical partnerships, sustainable production, and high-value market opportunities. The educational program, supported by the British Council, will be conducted by lecturers from the University of Arts London, headed by Ms. Hannah Middleton, Knowledge Exchange Lead, from March 19 to 23, 2025.

“Collaboration is at the core of this initiative,” said Robert Meeder [Project Lead from EU Cultural Relations Platform]. “This matchmaking program is the result of years of research and engagement with both Sri Lankan and European industries. By fostering these partnerships, we are creating a new model for ethical trade that values heritage, sustainability, and shared growth.”

With Sri Lanka’s creative economy at a turning point, this event provided an invaluable platform for industry professionals, journalists, and policymakers to engage with the future of ethical craft and export innovation.

Creative Sri Lanka 2030 is a national initiative dedicated to empowering the country’s creative industries by fostering innovation, sustainability, and global market access. The program aims to elevate Sri Lankan arts, crafts, and design through strategic collaborations and capacity-building efforts, ensuring long-term growth and international recognition.

The Delegation of the European Union Delegation to Sri Lanka works closely with local partners to promote economic development, trade, and cultural exchange. Through targeted programs and initiatives, the EU aims to strengthen Sri Lanka’s integration into the global economy while supporting sustainable and ethical trade practices.

After this pilot program, the EDB will continue this initiative until 2030 with the support of relevant stakeholders.