The Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) successfully hosted the 25th Exporters’ Forum on March 24, 2025, at its headquarters, providing a vital platform for exporters to raise concerns and explore solutions to the challenges faced in the export sector.
The forum brought together key stakeholders, policymakers, and industry leaders, creating an open space for dialogue between the private sector and government. Exporters presented a total of 110 issues, of which 79 were raised directly by individual companies, while 31 came through industry associations and Trade Chambers such as the Exporters’ Association of Sri Lanka (EASL) and the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce.
The EDB stated that many of these issues are currently being addressed through the Export Facilitation Task Force by directing them to the relevant institutions. Out of the total, 37 key issues under 17 critical topics were prioritized for discussion during the forum.
The event was held under the patronage of Hon. Sunil Handunnetti, Minister of Industries and Enterprise Development. Addressing the gathering, the Minister reaffirmed the government’s strong commitment to strengthening Sri Lanka’s export sector. He emphasized that the government prioritizes export growth as a key driver of the production economy and assured exporters of the Ministry’s full support in overcoming challenges.
Hon. Handunnetti also highlighted the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors to improve Sri Lanka’s global competitiveness and achieve sustainable growth in exports.
Several senior government officials and ministers attended the forum, including Deputy Ministers Hon. Chathuranga Abeysinghe (Industry and Enterprise Development), Hon. Dr. Harshana Suriyaaratchi (Finance and Planning), Hon. Susil Ranasinghe (Lands and Irrigation), and Hon. Eranga Udesh Weeraratne (Digital Economy).
Top officials from the Ministry of Industries and Enterprise Development, EDB leadership, Export Sector Advisory Committees, Product Associations, and representatives from the private sector and state institutions also participated in the event.
The 25th Exporters’ Forum marks a significant milestone in the country’s ongoing efforts to enhance export performance and competitiveness. The EDB reiterated its continued commitment to working closely with exporters to resolve barriers and support the growth of Sri Lanka’s export-driven economy.
