EDB Hosts Networking Session for New Exporters and Entrepreneurs

The Export Development Board (EDB) successfully conducted a networking and knowledge-sharing session with established exporters in five different product sectors (Tea, Spices & Coconut-Based Products, Processed Foods & Cashew Products, Ornamental Fish, and Herbal & Ayurvedic Products ) for new exporters and entrepreneurs on 22nd May 2025 at the “Training Arena,” 3rd Floor, EDB-NDB Tower, Colombo 02. This event provided an excellent opportunity for new exporters to learn directly from industry leaders and gain practical insights.

This exclusive session brought together 100 new exporters and entrepreneurs, including SME direct exporters and indirect exporters, along with leading exporters. The event featured a distinguished panel of speakers who shared their expertise on various topics critical to succeeding in the global marketplace:

Mr. Vibhu Perera, Chairman, Lumbini Aquaria International (Pvt) Ltd, with decades of experience in the ornamental fish sector, shared real-life examples of how Lumbini Aquaria International entered and succeeded in challenging international markets. He highlighted all key areas that new exporters in the ornamental fish sector should focus on.

Mr. Sumith Jayawikrama, Director, Basilur Tea Exports (Pvt) Ltd, shared his 38 years of experience in the tea sector with the participants. He provided valuable knowledge on how to build and run a sustainable export business over the long term. He advised exporters to carefully manage costs, improve operational efficiency, and adapt to market changes in order to stay competitive and remain in business for the long run.

Mr. Vernon Abeyratne, Managing Director, Joint Agri Products Ceylon (Pvt) Ltd, who has decades of experience in the Spices & Coconut-Based Products sector, explained how to find the right buyers and build strong, lasting relationships to retain and grow existing business partnerships. He also discussed the importance of using secure and reliable payment methods to minimize risk in international transactions.

Ms. Chamari Wickramathilaka, Senior Research Scientist, Link Natural Products (Pvt) Ltd, shared insights in her session on “Leveraging Quality to Build Global Consumer Trust.” She explained how Link Natural Products succeeded in global markets by emphasizing product efficacy and safety. She encouraged entrepreneurs to invest in R&D and certifications to compete internationally with confidence.

Mr. Samantha Thamel, Managing Director, Rancrisp Marketing (Pvt) Ltd, shared his experience in “Participating in Trade Fairs and International Exhibitions to Expand Networks and Understand New Trends for Preparing Local Products for the International Market.” He highlighted how international exposure and collaborations can help local brands evolve and meet emerging global trends.

This initiative by the EDB aimed to strengthen the capabilities of emerging exporters and encourage long term success in international trade.