The Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) recently organized a specialized training program for potential exporters and small and medium-scale entrepreneurs at the EDB premises. The program was held under the theme "Beyond Borders: Incoterms, Risk Management and Strategies for Competitiveness in International Trade".

Addressing the gathering, EDB Chairman Mangala Wijesinghe revealed that a five-year National Export Development Plan is currently being drafted. This plan aims to identify key sectors that can provide the highest contribution to the national economy over the next five years. The Chairman emphasized that the primary focus for this year must be strengthening the existing export base while simultaneously introducing new exporters to the global market.

Highlighting a significant gap in the sector, the Chairman pointed out that the direct export contribution of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Sri Lanka is currently less than 5%. In contrast, SME export contributions in countries like India, Bangladesh, and Vietnam exceed 25%. "We must change this situation," the Chairman stressed, noting the urgent need to integrate SMEs into the international marketplace.

The training workshop was conducted in both Sinhala and English by Export Training Consultant Dinesh de Silva. The sessions covered a comprehensive range of topics, including strategies for establishing and negotiating orders, building buyer trust and confidence, and product knowledge. Participants also received insights into labeling and packaging, strategic pricing for competitiveness, business risk management, the practical application of Incoterms, and international payment methods.

The event was attended by Dr. Sanjeewa Rathnasekara, Director of the Trade Facilitation and Trade Information Division, along with other representatives from the Export Development Board.